Cory C. Cates
A resident of Shakopee and formerly of Prior Lake, Cory Charles Cates, was only 50 years young when he passed away peacefully, with his family surrounding his bed at St. Francis Regional Medical Center, Shakopee, MN.
The family will greet guests on Wednesday, July 29 from 4-7 pm at Ballard-Sunder Funeral and Cremation 4565 Pleasant Street SE, Prior Lake, and one hour prior to the mass at church. The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Thursday, July 30 at 11 am at the Church of St. Michael 16311 Duluth Avenue SE, Prior Lake, MN. Father Tom Walker will preside. Cory will be laid to rest with his grandparents at a private family service at Valley Cemetery, Shakopee, MN.
It was a special Valentine’s present for James “Jim” and Patricia “Pat” (Arnold) Cates, with the arrival of their fifth and final son, Cory born on February 14, 1965, in Minneapolis, MN. First attending St. Michael’s Catholic School, he furthered his education at Prior Lake High School, where his love for music flourished. Playing the guitar and lead singer, Cory and a few friends formed a band called “Rage.” Each having their own various levels of talent, they took this outrageous garage band to school functions and then later to the local bars. Each gig was something special and fond memories were always created. Cory also took an interest in playing high school football and was well known as an individual who stood up for people. Even if it meant getting into a fight or two protecting others being mistreated. Cory graduated from Prior Lake High School of the Class of 1983.
After high school, Cory found himself traveling to South Dakota, to work as a guidance counselor for the Sky Ranch for Boys. A career he thoroughly enjoyed working with delinquent boys. Returning to Minnesota, Cory helped set up the first traumatic brain injury home in Minnesota. Working other various positions, he was passionate about youth, with physical and mental disabilities, in helping them achieve many goals and accomplishments along the way. For 10 years or so, Cory worked as the head grounds manager for Mystic Lake Casino, assuring the landscaping and outside maintenance was top notch. Then started Midwest Radon Services, working alongside his brother Scot.
Cory had a special love for German shepherd dogs. Over the years, he had great companionship from Spooner, Sunka, Chief and Maska. Cory relished watching western movies, especially the ones featuring John Wayne. Through the years, he still enjoyed playing music and getting together with the band. Cory’s greatest passion was his family, with his two daughters, Kirsten and MaCayla being front and center. They meant the world to him. Sunday afternoons where truly special for him with his daughters.
Through his eyes, Cory viewed his life as one being full of luck and amazement. He was passionate to make people happy…laughing and telling stories. Cory had no fears, living each day to the fullest.
Left to honor Cory’s life and mourn his death are his daughters, Kirsten Jacobson, MaCayla Cates; parents, Jim and Pat Cates; brothers, Mark (Cathy) Cates, Scot Cates, David (Tonda) Cates, Lance (Marcy) Cates; numerous nieces and nephews; other loving relatives and devoted friends
Cory was welcomed in heaven by his grandparents.
Ballard-Sunder Funeral Home and Cremation, Prior Lake Chapel, proudly served and cared for the Cates family. www.ballardsunderfuneral.com
