Gordon Douglas Cates

GORDON "GORDIE" DOUGLAS CATES

Gordon "Gordie" Cates, 81, of Hayfield, MN passed away on May 13, 2018, at Field Crest Care Center, in Hayfield.

Gordie was born on June 25, 1936, the son of Dean Paul and Dora (Lenz) Cates in Kingston, MN. He graduated from Litchfield High School the class of 1953. He joined the military in 1954, serving two tours in Viet-Nam. He retired in 1977, after twenty-three years of service. He worked as a civilian in various professions, retiring from the work force in 1998.

Gordie loved garage sales, woodworking and gardening. He was an animal lover, feeding strays and birds of all kinds. His children and grandchildren were the loves of his life. His eyes would light up every time any or all would visit. He kept his days busy with activities and just putzing around, loving life to the fullest. He will be greatly missed.

Gordie is survived by his sister, Vivian (Dick)Wright; his children, Dorothy (Todd) Edlin; Patty Krause, Brigitte (Bill) Tate; Phillip Cates; Bruno (Jennifer) Cates; Casey (Angela) Cates; Rachael Cates; 21 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 1:00-4:00 p.m. Saturday, May 19, 2018, at Czaplewski Family Funeral Home, 501 2nd Street NW in Hayfield. Inurnment will be in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Preston, MN at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 21, 2018.

Blessed be his memory.

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