Dakota Camba Petalver

• Please wear super hero or autism attire in honor of Koty

There will be a celebration of life luncheon following the graveside at the family's home.

Dakota "Koty" Petalver, 27, of Independence and formerly Waterloo, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, March 30, 2023, from natural causes.

He was born July 5, 1995, in Lawton, Oklahoma, the son of Rosco Petalver and Jennifer (Fouts) Petalver.

Dakota was proud of himself for graduating from West High School with the class of 2014.

He had worked hard at Hy-Vee prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dakota had a natural ability to light up people's lives with his infectious personality. He was witty, knowledgeable, and loved making others laugh with jokes he created himself. He had a heart of gold, was quick to forgive, and always willing to lend a helping hand. He was best known as "Koty Bear" by those close to him. Koty was selfless and always put others first. He took immense care of his grandmother, Jane, his mother, Jennifer, and his dog, Lottie.

Aside from caring for others, Dakota had many passions. He loved all superheroes, Pokémon, and especially Transformers. He could always be found playing his Nintendo Switch or D.S. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time playing Dungeons and Dragons and watching movies with his online friends through Discord. He was creative, intelligent, and loved writing fan fiction with his friends.

Koty will always be the best brother, son, friend, and hero. He touched the lives of many, many people and will be missed greatly. Koty will remain in the hearts of those who loved him, to infinity and beyond.

Survived by his mother, Jennifer Petalver of Independence; father, Rosco (Nancy) Petalver of Clarks Summit, PA; sisters, Kiki (Nathan Pitts) Cabrera of Milwaukee, WI and Madeline Gilbert; brothers, Evan and Joey Petalver; grandma and best friend, Jane Dickson of Independence; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Preceded in death by sister, Kayla Petalver and grandparents, Brenda Rush, Sofronio Petalver, Rodney Dickson, and John Fouts.