Ralph Cates Obituary

The memory of Ralph Cates of Battle Creek, Michigan, who passed away on January 24, 2026 at the age of 91, will forever remain in the hearts of those touched by this precious presence in their lives. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Ralph Cates to pay them a last tribute.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Ralph Waldo Cates and Lois Virginia Shope (Larson); his brothers, Randy Cates and Gary Cates (Cherie); his former wives, Luanne Unnerstall and Judith Cates; and his stepson Douglas Ingram (Nada).

He is survived by: his wife Dianne Kay Cates (Cushing); his children, Steven Cates (Cathy), Anna Leighton, Catherine Goins, Jeannine Turner, Marilyn Henderson (Keith) and Linda Cates; and his stepchildren, Steve Ingram (Michelle), Melissa Baxter (Scott), Paul Bartram, David Bartram and Melinda Bartram. He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cates Family Endowment Scholarship Fund c/o Battle Creek Community Foundation, 32 W. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1, Battle Creek, MI 49017.