James Kates

RICHMOND, Ind. - James Kates, age 87, of Richmond, died Sunday, April 7, 2013, at Reid Hospital. Born August 25, 1925, in Jackson County, Kentucky, to Richard and Ethel Croucher Kates, he lived in Richmond most of his life. James was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII, serving in the 106th Infantry Division. He fought through three major battle campaigns, including the Battle of the Bulge in the European theater. James was transferred to the Pacific Theater for the invasion of Japan when the war ended. He fought through several hedge rows, forests, roadways, and cities, in which his father had fought during WWI. James was a press operator at Wallace Metal for 21 years and retired in 1982. He opened Kates Furniture, which he operated with his sons for over twenty-seven years. James was a member of Faith Pentecostal Holiness Tabernacle. Survivors include his wife, Opal Laswell Kates, to whom he was married December 26, 1947; daughters, Eloise (Lewis) Richardson of Irvine, Kentucky, and Carolyn (Gary 'DD') Kates Glass of Bowling Green, Kentucky; sons, Eugene (Tomma) Kates of Centerville, Danny (Kinam) Kates of Richmond, and James (Rebecca) Kates Jr. of Richmond; eighteen grandchildren; thirty-two great-grandchildren; thirteen great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Marie (Donald) Rowe of Indianapolis and Wanda Ballenger of Hamilton, Ohio; brothers, Raymond Kates of Marietta, South Carolina and Vernon (China Faye) Kates of Big Hill, Kentucky; nieces; nephews; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Johnny, Merle, Earl, and Richard Kates Jr.; and sisters, Eloise Kates and Margaret Kates. Visitation for James Kates will be from 12 to 3:00 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2013, at Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond. Funeral service will be at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2013, at Doan & Mills Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Barrett and Rev. Harold Hale officiating. Burial will be in Goshen Cemetery with military honors provided by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

James Kates

August 25, 1925 - April 7, 2013