Edward Lee Cates

Chief Cates served honorably in the United States Air Force for 30 years and retired with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. During his career, he served as an Aerospace Physiology Manager and traveled extensively in support of the mission.

Throughout his military travels and throughout his life, he made lifelong friends who contributed to many of the joyous moments of his life.

Following his military retirement, Chief Cates spent 15 years with SI International, retiring as Vice President of Transportation. He earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business administration from Regis University.

He also served his community through civic and advocacy work, including as chairperson of the TSCL (The Senior Citizen League), lobbying in Washington, D.C., on behalf of those less fortunate. He also was involved and held several positions with TREA (The Retired Enlisted Association) and its Group for Retired Military.

Chief Cates is survived by his wife of 53 years, Irmgard Cates, originally from Mainz, Germany, where they met while he was stationed there.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four siblings, and one nephew. The eldest of twelve brothers and sisters, he is also survived by seven siblings, as well as 12 nieces and nephews, 16 great-nieces and nephews, and five great-great-nieces and nephews.

Chief Cates will be remembered as a kind and generous husband, brother, and uncle. He was a mentor to many and made a lasting impact on all who knew him.