Donovan Ryan Counts Jr. (26), unexpectedly passed away on May 26 ^th , 2020 in his hometown of Dunseith, ND.   His funeral will be held on Monday at 10:00 am at the St. Michael's Catholic Church in Dunseith.  His wake will be on Sunday starting at 5:00 pm with a service at 7:00 pm at the Church.

Donovan was born February 3 ^rd , 1994 in Rugby, ND to Nicole Parisien and Donovan Counts. He was called DJ by his family, D-Boi by his friends, and Donovan by the law, but everyone called him a friend. He gave himself the nickname D-Boi ManyMoons because he said he has seen many moons throughout his life. He lived most of his life in the Dunseith area. Growing up, he loved getting into trouble with his friends, food, and telling people "That's not berry bunny." He was never a picky kid and always happy.

He began his studies at Dunseith High School, but persuasion from his friends lead to him transferring and ultimately graduating from Flandreau Indian School in South Dakota. After he graduated, he briefly attended college, but he soon realized he preferred hands-on learning. So, he went to Job Corps. In his time there, he obtained his certificates for nursing and welding. Being the free-spirit that he was, no job (or woman) could hold him down for long. He liked hanging out with friends and family, and making new friends wherever he went. In 2016, he welcomed a beautiful baby girl named Arianna Rose Counts into the world. She was the light of his life.

DJ could make anyone laugh. Whether it was a big family gathering or just sitting around, he could find a way to make everyone laugh until their bellies hurt. His kind-heart, full smile and goofy personality made everyone feel welcomed and at home. He was stubborn and loyal, proud and strong. He loved to do things his way – even if that was the more complicated path. He enjoyed writing poetry, painting, and drawing on any and everything.

DJ is survived by his beautiful daughter Arianna Counts, his parents, Donovan (Denette) Counts Sr. and Nicole (Arlan) Parisien, siblings, Payton (Jaylen) Counts, Tiauna Peltier, and August Peltier, step-sister Kianna Notermann and extended family. We would also like to mention his parental figures: Robert (Bob) and Sonia Forschen, as well as Shane and MistyLynn Trottier.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandpa, Garry M Counts, his maternal great-grandparents August and Rose Parisien, uncle Nick Poitra, and cousins Joey May and Clinton Parisien.

Arrangements were with Nero Funeral Home in Bottineau.  Friends may sign the online register book at www.nerofuneralhome.net.