Paul Donald Cates

June 22, 1940 – July 8, 2024

Paul Donald (Don) Cates passed away on July 8, 2024, at the age of 84. With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of the most amazing husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend. Don was born in Ellsinore, Missouri, on June 22, 1940 to Henry & Henrietta Cates.  Don’s family moved to Richmond, CA during the war where his dad worked in the shipyards.  Don enlisted into the United States Navy on July 1, 1957 with his childhood best friend Clifford “Sonny” Miller.  He was proud to serve his country and took pride in being a veteran. Don brought joy and laughter to all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Don was a pillar of strength and wisdom. He was kind, compassionate, and generous, cherishing his family and friends each day.   He loved jumping on his Harley to pick the grandchildren up from school or traveling across the US making memories and experiencing new adventures with friends.  Don is survived by his loving wife Joann, daughter Cheryl, step daughters Victoria and Julie, grandchildren Eric, Krista, Mark, Crystal, Joseph, Haley, Justin, Shayleen, six great grandchildren, sister Audrey and lots of nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his daughter Tina, granddaughter Tanya, parents Henrietta and Henry and siblings, Willis, Bill, Ray, Obby, Fred, Joe, Jerry, Ruby, Margia and Peggy. While we grieve his loss, we take solace in the memories we shared and knowing he is with family singing and strumming on the guitar.

A service to celebrate Don’s life will be held on Saturday July, 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Eggen & Lance, 1540 Mendocino Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95401.