Collection: FND001 - SHSND Foundation - North Dakota Heritage Family Memorial Program
Series: Tribute
Folder: DIG
Item: 272247
Title: Devin R. Dunn
Date: 4/9/2000-7/22/2026
Inscription/Marks: 4/9/2000
Summary: Devin Roger Dunn was born on April 9, 2000, in Devils Lake, North Dakota. He was called home on July 22, 2026. He was a beloved son, brother, father, grandson, uncle, and friend whose life, though far too brief, shone with warmth, courage, and grace. A funeral service was held July 30, 2026, at Fort Totten Rec. Center, Fort Totten, ND. Burial was at the St. Jerome’s Catholic Cemetery, Fort Totten.
Devin lived a life that moved with steady light, and those who knew him remember a heart that was generous, loving, and gentle in every sight. He carried kindness in the way he spoke, and he offered help before it was asked, with a humble spirit that never sought praise or basked. His life was a quiet song of care, and in every place he stood, he made it clear he would always be there.
He was the son of Dustin Dunn, Sr. and stepmom Melanie Wolters, and his mother, Tara Yankton. Devin was cherished by a large and loving family that surrounded him with strength and devotion. He is survived by his sister, Kailee Dunn; his brothers, Dustin Dunn, Jr., Brandon Dunn, and his baby brother, Dillon Dunn; his sisters, Isabella Dunn and Gianna Yankton. He was also loved deeply by his paternal grandmother, Adele Shaw, and his maternal grandmother, Joanne Smith, whose memories will remain tender and true.
Devin’s family extended far beyond the names that can be spoken in one breath, for he was embraced by many aunts and uncles who loved him with pride and depth. He leaves behind Michael Dunn Sr., Ambrose Thompson III, Tannis Shaw, Brisa Thompson, Trevor Yankton, Lionel Dunn, Austin Littlewind, Terry Dunn Jr., Kyle Dunn, Cody Dunn, Justin Yankton, Doug Yankton Sr., Todd Yankton, Robin McKay, Paula Yankton, Joy Azure, and Kayla Smith, each one holding a special place in his story. He was also welcomed in memory by those who went home before us, including Terry Dunn Sr., Paul Yankton, Patty Shaw, known lovingly as Kunsi, and Blisse Thompson, a special aunt whose presence was treasured. He is now joined by all of the loved ones who wait to welcome us home, where sorrow fades and peace is known.
Devin’s education journey was one of growth, change, and determination, and he met each step with a spirit that would not break. He attended Devils Lake Sweetwater Elementary with his sister Kailee, and he continued in Devils Lake before choosing to attend boarding school in Wahpeton, ND. After his eighth-grade graduation, he went on to Flandreau Indian Boarding School, and later he returned home to finish his schooling and graduate from Four Winds High School. He earned his high school diploma with pride, and he also received certificates through Job Corps, where he pursued electrical studies and worked to build a bright future. He had been scheduled for orientation at Northland Technical Community College on July 23, 2026, and he was preparing to study carpentry after helping his dad build the family home through the winter, though he later decided to switch to the electrical program and follow that path with all his might.
His work life reflected the same steady strength and willingness to serve that marked his days. Devin was working at Spirit Lake Casino as a bartender, where he carried himself with confidence and care. Before that, he worked in the casino’s drop team department, rising early for a 5 a.m. shift and handling it like a champ without complaint. He also worked overnight at Walmart stocking shelves, and he served at the casino’s View Restaurant, where his hard work brought in great tips and earned respect. In addition, he helped at his dad’s shop in town and for his dad’s construction company, always ready to do what was needed and never too proud to lend a hand. He was dependable, hardworking, and willing, and he met each task with a spirit that was strong and winning.
After high school, Devin met the mother of his daughter, Kaysen Redfox. Together they brought his one and only child into the world to bless our family with his little mini me, Kaisley Dunn. Among Devin’s greatest accomplishments was his daughter, who was the joy of his heart and the light of his days. He loved spending time with her, and his love for her was deep, steady, and true. The bond between this father and his baby girl is unmatched. He also enjoyed shooting hoops with his brothers, gaming with friends and family, and shopping and spending time together with his daughter, making memories that will continue to bloom. These simple joys revealed the heart of a young man who valued connection, laughter, and love, and who found meaning in the moments that helped life move along.
Survived and who will miss Devin dearly: Mother Tara Yankton, daughter, Aisley, Lil Sissy: Kailee Dunn, Gianna Yankton, Grandmothers: Joanna Smith, Teresa Brown, Emestine Foote, Luwonna Asur, Jeanne Cavanaugh and Donna Jackson. Grandfathers: Nathan (Jimmy) (Marilyn) Smith, Michael (Marty) Alex. Uncle and Aunts: Jonthan, Douglas (Sara) Sr., Justin (Brooke) Sr. Yankton, Robin (Gosha McKay, Paula Yankton, Joy (Justin) Azure, Michaela Smit, Romana Leftbear and kids, and Numerous Cousins (Brother, Sisters). Godparent Kenneth (Spune) Dunn, Hunka familu, Misty Luger Richard (Marv) Luger Jr, Michelle IronHeart and boys, Tara Smith, Iris Walking Eagle, Trins Brownshield and boys, Kaysen Redfox mother to Kaisley Dunn.
Preceded in death by Grandparents: Roger and Patty Shaw, Grandfater: Paul Yankton Jr., Great Grandparents: Paul Yankton Sr., Christine Alex, Ernest and Agatha Smith, Uncle and Aunts: Darrell Smith, Myrna Demarce, Marilyn Thomaas, Charles Foote, Danielle Herald, Daniel Cavanaugh Jr.
Red ID: FND_I_79739 Image ID: 596197 Image Notes: FND001 272247
