Dante Kidd

Dante Kidd arrived in our lives on January 19, 2004 a bit earlier than expected, which was the first indication of his appreciation for self-determination. His older brother, Aiden, was delighted in having a side-kick, and shared many adventures, some of which are family favorite stories, and others are better kept secret.

From the beginning, Dante showed his appreciation for music, quickly learning songs like The Muffin Man, which he sang with a joy not always matched by the adults in the vicinity. He received his first violin when he was five, and continued to play through high school and beyond. He experimented with many songs, known and original, on the keyboard, guitar and through electronic music making – which was his ultimate passion. But his creativity was most apparent in his poetry.

Dante’s commitment to self-determination also served him well during the test at the end of swimming lessons. The instructor told him he passed but should repeat the level because he needed to work on his technique. It seems the only way he made it across the pool was sheer persistence and grit. Other sport activities he pursued were running sprints and the hurdles for Nicolet High School, and horseback riding, which was most enjoyed at the 7D Ranch near Cody, Wyoming. He was forced to give up skateboarding after he broke his fourth board, but continued climbing trees and breaking ankles.

He treasured the family cats (his brothers), Noctus and Iggy, and was a loyal friend. Dante had a natural curiosity and enjoyed experiencing new things – with food adventures being at the top of the list. You would have remembered his friendly demeanor if he waited on you at Wild Fork, Purple Door Ice Cream, or Jets Pizza, where he persuaded them to hire him as soon as he turned 14. Dante appreciated travel, seeing new things, places, and trying local foods. He loved any new device for making the perfect cup of coffee – especially espresso. He was honing his culinary skills and was passionate about working out and “getting gains.”

Dante’s memory will be carried on by his parents, David Kidd and Bridgette DeMars Kidd, his brother Aiden (aka Vergil), grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and so much extended family and friends who knew and loved him, especially his treasured love, Mia.

Please come share stories of Dante on Saturday, December 16th from 3-5pm at Wisconsin Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Urban Cats Coalition, www.urbancats.org

To send flowers to the family of Dante, please visit our floral store.