The Richmond News, Dec. 8, 2023

Charley Cates, Jr.

Charley “Vester” Cates Jr., 82, Lawson, passed away Dec. 3, 2023, at his home with family by his side. Visitation was held 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7. The funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Lawson, followed by burial in the Lawson Cemetery. Vester was born Oct. 23, 1941, in Lawson. He was a lifelong resident of Lawson, where he was a business owner, community leader and dear friend to many.

He owned and operated Vester Cates Ditching, initially established as Cates Construction in 1951 by his father. The legacy of the family business will continue as Cates Services, operated by his grandsons.

He served as a member of the board of directors of the Lawson Fire & Rescue Protection District. He started his fire department career as a volunteer in the 1970s. He previously served the community as president of the Lawson Chamber of Commerce and the city council/ board of aldermen.

Vester was always the life of the party and welcomed everyone with a smile. He had a love for his family, classic cars, motorcycles and racing. He competed in automotive racing throughout the Midwest.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charley Vester Cates Sr. “Doc” and Mary Frances; brother, Bobby Ray Cates; and sister, Donna Sue Swafford.

Survivors include his partner, Ann Seba, and beloved companion, Whiskey Pete; son, Rodney (Bonnie) Cates; daughter, Jessica Cates Bolen (Brian Cook); grandchildren, Michael Cates, Nathan Cates, Jacob (Alexis) Cates and Bella Bolen; and niece, Yvette Cates.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawson Food Pantry or the Lawson Fire & Rescue Protection District.