Kern County CA Obituary Project Obituaries.....(Radovanich) Kates, Catherine (Kay) October 2004
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
K T bluewolf@onemain.com October 23, 2004, 2:11 am

The Tehachapi News 
Catherine R. Kates 

March 2, 1919 – Oct. 4, 2004

Catherine (Kay) Radovanich Kates, 85, died on Oct. 4 in Bakersfield. 

Kay was born on March 2, 1919, in Chicago and after her parents Joseph and 
Anna died in her youth, with her usual gumption she joined the Women’s Army 
Air Corp during World War II. She met her husband of 60 years, George W. 
Kates, when both of them were in the Air Force and stationed at Tampa Drew Air 
Force Base. 

At first sight of Kay, George told her he loved her and that he was going to 
marry her. It was the best decision he ever made and shaped his life for the 
better as she was “the wind beneath his wings.” Kay supported and encouraged 
George through law school and his career as an attorney, banker and real 
estate developer.  Kay and George lived in Florida Veteran housing at 
University of Florida; Miami, Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; Stallion Springs and 
Bakersfield.

Kay was the quintessential 1950’s wife and mom. She made a big breakfast every 
morning, her children George Jr. and Kathe came home after school to her 
lovingly greeting them in her fresh clothes and make-up, a sparkling clean 
house, a delicious snack, help with homework, card and board games.

Kay was a Cub, Brownie and Girl Scout leader and Scout Commissioner of the 
Bahamas. She was comfortable either camping with her family and friends or 
graciously entertaining on a grand scale.

Kay’s family and friends could never doubt her love, loyalty and compassion 
for them. They were strengthened by knowing they were not only in Kay’s good 
hands, but God’s good hands with all of her prayers for them. Kay not only 
selflessly fostered and delighted in her family’s successes, but when they 
failed, she helped them to pick themselves up.

Kay loved babies (especially her grandchildren) and the flowers in her 
garden.  

Kay is deeply beloved and survived by her husband, George W. Kates; son, 
George W. Kates Jr.; daughter and son-in-law Kathe and Warren Davis; and 
grandchildren, Kadi and Jeff Davis. She was preceded in death by all of her 
six siblings.

No funeral services will be held.


Additional Comments:
Volunteer submission - No relation to the deceased.

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