Curtis Bernard Cates

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Curtis Bernard Cates passed away on July 28th, 2021. He was 85. Curtis was born in Coleman, TX on July 5th, 1936 to Charlie Cates and Georgia Koym. After high school Curtis joined the Army where he served as a military policeman in Berlin. He later became an instrument technician, acquiring numerous technical certifications while working for Monsanto and GRDA.

Curtis married the love of his life, Marilyn Grace Hessong, on December 11th, 1974. They were together for 46 years. He took great joy in doting on his many grandchildren, lavishing them with smiles, hugs, and ice cream. "Grampy" had 8 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild.

Curtis was kind, generous, and jolly. His playful spirit endeared him to all that had the good fortune to know him. Curtis was a faithful servant of the Lord and a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Cuero.

Curtis was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Cates; mother, Georgia Koym; stepmother, Ina Mae Cates; sister, Charlene Callison and brother, Don Cates. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Cates; daughter, Yvonne Huff and husband Michael Huff of Crothersville, IN; son, Brian Cates and wife Beckie Cates of Angleton, TX; son, Scot Johnson and wife Rachel Spillman-Johnson of Austin, TX; and sister, Pat Sires and husband Ray Sires of Waco, TX.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 3rd 2021, 10:00 am at Freund Funeral Home in Cuero. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 am with Dr. Glenn Robertson officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Shaun Runyon, Jeremy Huff, Russell Sosa, Robert Wood, Scott Wade, and Doug Sethness.

Honorary pallbearers include Kyle Gibson, J.G. Hunnam, Curtis Afflerbach, and Dan Williams.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to South Texas Children's Home.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.