Donald “Deke” Kindt Jr. Death, Obituary: In Loving Memory of Donald “Deke” Kindt Jr.

The Woodway family mourns the loss of one of our own with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life that shaped who we are. It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Donald “Deke” Kindt Jr. on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Deke’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Woodway, and his absence will be felt every day by those who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

Deke was Woodway’s very first sales representative and one of the longest-tenured employees in our company’s history, dedicating more than 35 years to helping build Woodway into what it is today. His impact cannot be measured by sales figures, territories, or tenure alone. It lives on in the countless relationships he built, the customers who became lifelong friends, and the culture of trust and authenticity he helped create from the very beginning.

To those who worked beside him, Deke was far more than a colleague—he was family. He embodied everything Woodway stands for: loyalty, integrity, passion, and hard work, anchored by a genuine care for people. Deke had a larger-than-life presence, a booming voice that could fill any room, and an infectious personality that made everyone feel welcome. Yet the only thing bigger than his presence was his heart.

Deke loved with equal enthusiasm—his family, his friends, his coworkers, and his customers. He had a rare gift for making people feel truly valued, and over the course of his career he touched hundreds, if not thousands, of lives throughout our industry. He often referred to people simply as “my buddy,” a phrase that perfectly captured the warmth, sincerity, and connection he brought to every relationship.

In the past year, Deke faced cancer with the same grace, optimism, courage, and humor that defined the way he lived. Even in the most difficult moments, he inspired those around him with his strength and unwavering spirit—proof that his leadership was rooted not just in words, but in example.

Deke leaves behind two incredible children, DJ and Riley, who stood faithfully by his side throughout his journey. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies are with them and with all who loved him.

While his time with us feels far too short, we are profoundly grateful for the lifetime of memories he created and the countless stories he leaves behind. The Woodway family feels especially blessed to have shared so much of life’s journey with Deke over the past 35 years. Today, our hearts are broken, but our memories are overflowing.

Thank you, Deke, for your friendship, your leadership, your laughter, and your unwavering belief in Woodway and in the people who make it special.