06/07/2026
The Woodway family lost one of our own.
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Donald "Deke" Kindt Jr. on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
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 of his life to helping build Woodway into what it is today. His impact on our company cannot be measured in sales numbers, territories, or years of service. It is reflected in the countless relationships he built, the customers who became lifelong friends, and the culture he helped create.
To those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him, Deke was much more than a colleague. He was family.
He embodied everything Woodway stands for: loyalty, integrity, passion, hard work, and most importantly, a genuine care for people. He had a larger-than-life presence, a booming voice that could fill any room, and an infectious personality that made everyone feel welcome. The only thing bigger than his presence was his heart.
Deke loved his family, his friends, his coworkers, and his customers with equal enthusiasm. He had a unique ability to make people feel valued, and over the course of his career, he touched hundreds, if not thousands, of lives throughout our industry. Deke often simply referred to people as “my buddy,” a reflection of 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 during the most difficult moments, he continued to inspire those around him with his strength and unwavering spirit.
He 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 all who loved him.
While his time with us was far too short, we are incredibly 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 him 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 the people who make it special.
You will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always a part of the Woodway family.
For the Long Run.
