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Christopher Cates Obituary
May 12, 1974 - February 9, 2021
Christopher Wilson Ford Cates, 46, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021.
Born in Burke County, May 12, 1974, he was the son of James B. Cates and the late Georgia K. Cates. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, W. Wilson and Rucker Kincaid, and Iris Hoffman.
Chris was a graduate of Freedom High School and Appalachian State University where he earned an English Degree with a Minor in Music.
Chris is survived by his daughters, Coral and Joy Cates, and their mother, Adair Whisnant Cates; father and biggest fan, James B. Cates; brother, Bryan Cates (Stephanie); nephews, Wilson and Michael Cates; and many friends who were like brothers to him.
Chris was employed by Inman Solar in Atlanta, Ga.
Chris was an amazing father to his two girls. He loved them with all his heart and it was obvious to anyone who saw them together. Chris was a lifelong musician, songwriter, and producer with a love of music that was unmatched. He will be remembered for his larger-than-life stage presence and the joy he brought to the countless people who saw him perform. He spent thousands of hours in his studio writing and recording his volume of material. He loved golf and tennis, cooking, travel, and enjoyed watching NBA basketball, especially the Hawks and Lakers. Chris had the rare ability to form lifelong friendships with so many people of all ages and walks of life. The world is a better place because of the person he was, the life he lived, the lasting friendships he formed, and the music he loved to share. The same music that will continue to live on in our hearts and minds forever.
A private service was held for his immediate family at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Friday, Feb. 12. An online tribute and memorial service for Chris will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chris and Georgia Cates Memorial Music Scholarship Fund, 152 Saint Mary's Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. For all those who know and love Chris we ask that you keep his music forever playing. www.ChrisCates.com.
Sossoman Funeral Home
www.sossomanfh.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Cates
Sponsored by Sossoman Funeral Home - Morganton.
3 Entries
February 18, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Bernadette Moore
February 17, 2021
My sincere condolences to the family. So happy to have met you and to hear you play live. May you rest in eternal peace.
Daniel "Mike" Durham
February 16, 2021
The music and memories will live on forever. Chris will always be one of "The Immortals" in my life story and I bet so many others feel the same about their journey with Chris. Peace be with all.
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Sossoman Funeral Home - Morganton1011 South Sterling Street PO Box 2608 (zip 28680), Morganton, NC 28655
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