He was born in Odessa, Texas to Hazel Mary and Joseph Arnett on November 5, 1938.
Don graduated from San Angelo High School in 1956. He married Alice Kay Irby in 1960. The couple had two daughters; Brandie and Crystal. By 1967 he earned his highest level degree, Doctor of Education.
He had a life long passion for learning and was an avid reader. Sharp witted, with the gift of gab, he was an excellent story teller. Don is survived by Brandie and Grant Austin of Keller, Texas in addition to several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by Crystal Cates, Hazel, J.A. Cates, Cecile Cates and Joseph Cates.
Memorial Services will be held at 3 pm on Saturday, October 6, 2018 at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home in Colleyville, Texas. There will be a reception to follow.
If you wish to send floral condolences in honor of Donald Cates, you may call Dr. Delphinium Designs and Events, 214-525-1284.