Ralph Larson Cates

Ralph Larson Cates, 91, of Battle Creek, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 24, 2026. Born June 3, 1934, in Boise Idaho, Ralph was the son of the late Ralph Waldo Cates and Lois Virginia (Larson) Shope.

Ralph was a lifelong learner with a curious mind and a steady faith. A graduate of Missoula County High School in Missoula Montana, he pursued higher education at the University of Montana, Brooke Army Medical School, and Carroll College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. Never content to stop learning, Ralph later earned a Doctorate in Theology from Shalom Bible College-a reflection of his conviction that faith and intellect are strongest when they grow together.

Ralph served his country proudly for a combined 35 years in the Montana Army National Guard, the U.S. Air Force Reserve as a Medical Evacuation Officer, and the Michigan Air National Guard, retiring from military service in 1989. He spoke often and with pride about his service, believing deeply in honoring those who serve. His dedication was recognized with numerous commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and Air Force Reserve Medal.

Professionally, Ralph worked in biochemical research, pharmaceutical marketing, and food science before founding Management Advisory Services. His life's call, however, was ministry. He served as a hospital chaplain at Bronson Battle Creek and was a co-founder of Battle Creek Area Christian Fellowship (now Victory Life Church), where he continued to serve faithfully as a pastor well into later life. Over the years, Ralph led numerous mission trips overseas, traveling with doctors and nurses and delivering medical supplies and equipment. Ralph had a gift for listening, for offering wisdom without fanfare, and for making people feel seen and valued.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Dianne Kay (Cushing) Cates; his son, Steven (Cathy) Cates; his daughters, Anna Leighton, Catherine Goins, Jeannine Turner, Marilyn (Keith) Henderson, and Linda Cates; his stepchildren, Steve (Michelle) Ingram, Melissa (Scott) Baxter, Paul Bartram, David Bartram, and Melinda Bartram; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who knew him as a patient teacher and gentle guide; his stepbrother, Randy Cates; 2 nieces & 1 Nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Gary Cates (Cherie); his former wives, Luanne Unnerstall and Judith Cates; and his stepson, Douglas (Nada) Ingram.

Ralph loved traveling, the outdoors, learning languages, hunting, fishing, and in his younger years, working as a mountain guide. He was a man of deep faith, thoughtful words, dry humor, and someone who believed life was meant to be lived with purpose, integrity, and kindness. He was a member of Victory Life Church, Sigma Chi Fraternity, the Military Officers Association, the American Legion, and formerly AMBUCS in Battle Creek.

Visitation will be held at Baxter Funeral & Cremation Services, 375 West Dickman Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037 on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A celebration of Ralph's life will be held at Victory Life Church, 6892 D Drive N, Battle Creek, MI 49014, on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 am with Pastor James Sunnock officiating.

Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery.

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.

Arrangements are entrusted to Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 269-788-9800, www.baxterfuneral.com