Earl Cates Obituary
Earl Robert Cates, age 96, of Osage Beach, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Stonebridge Senior Living in Osage Beach. He was born on August 23, 1929, in Wyandotte, Michigan, the son of William and Alice (Glover) Cates.
Earl proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He was also a member of the Shriners, Linn Creek Lodge No. 152, and a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason.
On January 22, 1966, Earl was united in marriage to Georgia in Madison, Illinois. Together, they shared 56 years of marriage before her passing on March 19, 2022. Earl devoted many years to caring for his beloved wife, and following her passing, he continued to live life fully and keep busy by meeting people and making new friends.
Earl enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and remained active well into his later years. He loved playing golf, fishing, and gathering around a poker table. He was still enjoying golf, fishing, and his Monday and Thursday poker games until just three weeks before his passing.
Earl had a kind heart and a genuine ability to make friends wherever he went. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend. His warmth, friendliness, and love for those around him touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Earl is survived by his children, Jerry Cates (Rueangwilai) of Kaiser, Missouri; Louwanna Bloom (Terry Berry) of Osage Beach, Missouri; Rae Pat Stimpson of Temple, Texas; and Linda Sue Cox of Fenton, Missouri; 14 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great-grandchildren; as well as other relatives and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgia Cates; his son Earl Cates; his parents, William and Alice Cates; his sisters, Marilyn and Jenny; and his brother, Robert Cates.
Earl leaves behind a legacy of love, service, friendship, and family.
His memory will live on in the many lives he touched and in the generations of family who will carry his memory forward.
Family will welcome friends and family on Monday, August 17, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes in Osage Beach, Missouri. Memorial Services will be held on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 11:00 am at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes Osage Beach, Missouri.
Expressions of sympathy is suggested for people to send flowers or donors choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 514 State Highway 42, Osage Beach, Missouri 65065, (573) 348-3232.
