Daniel Patrick "Dan" Cates

Daniel "Dan" Patrick Cates, 62, of Eugene, Oregon, died January 4, 2025 after a short battle with Cancer. Dan was born October 6, 1962 to Allen and Lydia Cates in Honolulu, HI, while Allen was stationed at Hickam, AFB. The family traveled around the country with the Air Force, then finally settled in Cheyenne, WY. After graduating from St. Mary's H.S. in 1980, Dan attended LCCC and earned a welding certificate. He began delivering pizzas for Dominos, during that time and quickly moved up to assistant manager. He managed stores in Boulder and Denver CO, before being sent to Australia to open Dominos International, in 1984. He then went on to manage corporate stores in Southern California and met his wife Ann, while there. They shared a love of travel, since they both were raised military "brats". Dan's people skills, business sense, determination allowed him to build a career as a Dominos franchisee, with his first stores in Canada. The couple then moved to Cheyenne, where they were married on May 19, 1990. At this time, he took a break from Dominos and worked as a Training manager for Taco John's International. They had three beautiful girls, while in Cheyenne and made long time special bonds with his extended family. Dan's next call was to the Midwest, managing stores for Arby's in Michigan and Ohio. Dan was then drawn back to Dominos by his best friend and business associate, to manage stores for him in Salem, Oregon. When Dan was offered the opportunity to become a Franchisee in Eugene, he jumped on it. This is where Dan excelled, starting with three stores and building up to six. He overcame many obstacles and won numerous awards with Dominos. During that time, Dan also served on the board of Naturally Noble, an innovative natural food company where he shared his passion for health foods. He recently sold his six Dominos stores, retired from the pizza business, and settled outside of Eugene, along the McKenzie River. His home there was his pride and joy. He loved sharing his cabin with family and his many new river friends. Dan's love of scuba diving tapped into his love of nature and sense of adventure, exploring many islands and coastal beaches.
Dan will be remembered for his faith in God, love of family, work ethic, vision, energy, optimistic attitude, curiosity, sense of humor and adventure. He had a dynamic personality and ease about him that would make those he met feel empowered and appreciated. His zest for life and vision will live on with his wife, children and grandchildren, as well as the business community of Eugene. Dan will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.
Dan is survived by his wife of 34 years, Ann Cates, three cherished daughters Heather Cates (Tamal Riedman), Ashley Cates (Jake Fusilier) and Jennifer Cates, all of Eugene, OR, as well as two cherished grandchildren, Valerie and Parker. He is also survived by his siblings, Michael (Shelley) Cates of Windsor, CO, Maureen (Dave) Florita, Jeanne (Bob) Van Risseghem, Steve Cates, and Kevin (Teryl) Cates, all of Cheyenne. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Dan was preceded in death by his parents Allen and Lydia Cates.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday February 1st, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, at the Elks Lodge #660, 100 East 17th St. in Cheyenne, WY.
In addition to the Cheyenne service, there will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday February 22nd from 10 am to 1 pm, at Camp Harlow Lodge, 3850 County Farm Rd. Eugene, OR.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Shriners Hospital for Children or the American Cancer Society, in Dan's memory.