Richard “Frank” Cates
OBITUARY
Frank was born in Taylor, Texas and raised in nearby Bartlett by his grandmother and grandfather. Frank joined the Navy fresh out of high school in 1946. He served 20 years in the Navy, including a tour on the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31) during the Korean War. He later worked at ComNavAirPac Staff as an instructor, and later at the Naval Training Center of San Diego. After retiring from the Navy, Frank was hired into Federal Civil Service where he spent almost 20 years. He served as the Director of Civil Personnel at the Naval Air Systems Command Representative, Pacific and as a Personnel Specialist at the Civilian Personnel Department at NAS North Island. After leaving Civil Service, Frank was the head golf coach at the University of San Diego from March 1986 until June 2001.
Frank married Louise Priestley in January 2010 and moved to Franklin TX shortly after. Frank had known Louise since they were young children in Bartlett and they decided to spend their last years together as husband and wife. Louise continues to reside in Round Rock, Texas.
Frank is survived by his wife Louise, his daughter Sharon Woodard of Cedar Park TX, his son Richard Cates of Santee CA, and sons David Cates and Dale Cates of San Diego. He also had many grandchildren and great- grandchildren. His life was truly blessed.
Services will be held at Miramar National Cemetery on August 28, 2026.