Dakota “Caige” Branch, age 14, of Salem, passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Born on March 12, 2009, in Centralia, Illinois, he was the beloved son of Shawn Lee Branch and Ashley Nicole Beck. Survived by his parents, Shawn and Ashley, Caige leaves behind cherished memories for his siblings, Kiley, Aylah, and Wyatt Branch, all of Salem, as well as a niece, Adelaide Addison. Caige was a student at Franklin Park Middle School in Salem. He loved playing football, attending demolition derbies, and immersing himself in the world of cars. Caige was also an experimental cook, bringing creativity and joy to the kitchen. A casual memorial gathering will be held at Grace United Methodist Church in Salem on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family, and will be accepted at the church or Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, which is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories can be shared at www.CrouseFH.com or on the funeral home's Facebook page as a way to commemorate and celebrate Dakota's life.