Robert M Cates

Robert Michael Cates, age 65 of Mishawaka, passed away at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center on Thursday, January 25, 2024.  Bob was born December 18, 1958, in Mishawaka, Indiana to the late Theron and Sarah Evelyn (Jordan) Cates.  He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1978.  Bob worked with Marilyn Cortier and they fell in love and married on August 18, 1979.

Marilyn survives, along with their son Jason (Amanda) Cates of South Bend. Bob is also survived by his granddaughters whom he loved immensely, Aniyha, Addison, Evelyn and Emery Cates and Nadia Skretkowicz, his brother Kenneth Merle (Karen) Cates of Bend, Oregon, his sister-in-law Monica Cates of Michigan City, Indiana, his nephew Adam Cates and nieces Christy Holcomb, Erin (Greg) Baurer, and Sarah (Roy) LaTess, along with his “fur babies” -his dogs, Bear the Schnauzer and Louie the Bichon. He was preceded in death by his siblings Theron Dwayne “Pete” Cates and Carolyn Smith.

A Mass of Christian Burial and celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date.  Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with his care.

Bob was employed as a bus driver for Coach USA for many years. In his spare time, he enjoyed watching Chicago Bears football, fishing and traveling the Midwest with Marilyn.  One of Bob’s favorite trips was their land and sea trip through Alaska. Bob taught himself how to properly throw a knife and a tomahawk and passed his skills down to his son, Jason.  He also enjoyed spending time in different ways with each of his granddaughters who lovingly called him “Papa.”

A devoted Catholic, Bob was a member at St. Monica Catholic Church and was a regular attender at St. Joseph Catholic Church as well.  He had a heart of gold and would take time to help anyone in need without question.

In his memory, donations may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Bob’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.