Robert “Bob” Francis Kates, 84 of Longs, SC formerly of Hendersonville, NC and Melbourne, FL passed away December 27, 2013 at McLeod Sea Coast Hospital in Little River, SC. Born December 15, 1929 in Pensacola, FL, he was the son of the late Joseph Francis Kates and Exia Marie (Taylor) Kates. He graduated from Pensacola High School in 1948 and started his college education at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL. He was drafted into the Signal Corp of the U.S. Army during the Korean War and after serving two years was released to the U.S. Army Reserve for seven years during which time he returned to the University of Florida where in obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering. He was employed as a chemical engineer for several companies throughout the years however, retired from the Harris Corporation in Melbourne, FL. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed watching the PGA Tour as well as his beloved Florida Gators. He celebrated 36 years of marriage with his wife, Virginia Mae Kates, who preceded him in death in May 2003. He is survived by his daughters, Kathleen Stephens […]
↧