Dakota Michael Marion

Dakota Michael Marion, passed away unexpectedly on April 13, 2025, at the age of 22. Born on May 2, 2002, in Zanesville, Ohio, Dakota was a cherished son, a devoted father, a loving brother, and a significant other who brought joy and laughter to all the lives he touched.

Dakota was the beloved son of Justin (Amber) Marion of Follansbee, WV, and Kelsi Bond of Cambridge. He was a guiding light in the lives of his family, including his son Hudson Marion of New Concord, who was his entire world. Dakota was a brother whose bonds could never be broken, leaving behind Brooklyn Gombeda of Byesville, Sydney (Anthony) Marion-Swartz of Cumberland, Kendall Marion of Byesville (and their mother, Jessy Marion), and Sophia Marion of Follansbee, WV. His stepsiblings, Cameron Dillie and Carlee Dillie, both of Follansbee, WV, will remember his playful spirit and kind heart.

The Marion and Bond families mourn the loss of a young man who was the epitome of an old soul with the biggest heart. His paternal grandparents, JD and Mary Marion of Cambridge, and maternal grandparents, Judy (Gale Brewer) Barlock of Newark, along with Jim and Melissa Bond of Bradenton, FL, and maternal great-grandmother Carolyn Dickson of Cambridge, will hold dear the memories of Dakota's infectious smile and his generous nature.

Dakota's life was enriched by his significant other, Marissa Furbee of New Concord, with whom he shared an unbreakable bond and countless cherished moments. He is also survived by his "brother from another mother," Alton Lemon of Newark, whose friendship was a testament to Dakota's ability to form deep and meaningful connections.

His family remembers Dakota as a man who lived passionately and loved deeply. His skills as a welder were not only a testament to his work ethic but also to his desire to leave a mark of excellence in everything he touched. Dakota took pride in his craft, and his dedication to his trade was evident to all who worked alongside him.

An outdoorsman at heart, Dakota's interests were as expansive as the Ohio skies he loved to explore. Whether hunting, handling firearms, riding motorcycles, or speeding through trails on ATVs, he was happiest surrounded by nature and the thrill of adventure. His love for anything with speed was more than a hobby; it was a reflection of the vivacious spirit he carried within him.

Above all, Dakota's greatest joy and proudest achievement was being a father. His son, Hudson, was the beacon of his life, and Dakota embraced every moment they shared with unbridled enthusiasm and love. He instilled in his son the values of family, courage, and kindness, which will continue to guide Hudson as he grows.

The void left by Dakota's untimely departure is immeasurable, but his legacy will endure through the countless stories, laughter, and love he shared with so many. His presence could light up the darkest of rooms, and his absence will be felt deeply by the myriad of lives he brightened.

Dakota's life was a testament to the power of love, friendship, and family. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and good friends, each of whom had the privilege of experiencing the warmth and kindness that Dakota brought into this world.

As we bid farewell to Dakota Michael Marion, we celebrate a life lived fully, a heart given freely, and a spirit that will forever soar through the lives of those he loved. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made will resonate for generations to come.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 6PM- 8PM at Thorn- Black Funeral Home in Cambridge.