Joe Ted Cates

Joe Ted Cates, of Ray County, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 beginning at 1:00PM at Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Excelsior Springs with a funeral service to follow at 2:00PM also at Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Excelsior Springs.
Joe was known for his hardworking nature, kind heart, and dedication to his family. He worked for many years as a Foreman for Cargill and most recently as a mechanic for Midwest Locomotive. His love for the outdoors led him to spend countless hours tinkering and tending to his farm, but above all else, Joe cherished his role as "Papa Joe" and his devoted wife, Deborah. Joe's kindness and love reached beyond borders. His deep connection to his wife, Deborah, who moved from England when they first met, is a testament to their devoted and amazing love story. Together, they built a life full of love and care that touched everyone who knew them, both near and far.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Erma Cates, and his sister, Anne Crumley.
He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Deborah A. Cates, of Rayville, MO; his son, Matthew J. Cates, of Smithville, MO; and four stepdaughters: Holley Baldwin of Excelsior Springs, MO, Samantha Walker of Liverpool, UK, Jenney Paul of Lathrop, MO, and Mary-Ann Wynn of Liberty, MO. Joe is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Oliver Cates, Emily Wynn, and Audrey and Mya Lockwood as well as his three brothers and one sister.
Papa Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his legacy of kindness and global reach will live on in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.