Kates Steele Monroe

August 5, 1940 – July 10, 2017

Kates was born in Dillon, South Carolina, to Eugene Martin and Sara (Proctor) Monroe. He passed peacefully on July 10, 2017 with his family by his side till the end.

Kates left home at the age of 18 to join the United States Army. During his time in the Army, he was stationed in Japan, Thailand, South Korea, and Germany, as well as many places in the United States. He served two tours in Vietnam as a communication specialist helping break enemy codes. At one point, he and his father were both serving in Vietnam at the same time. He retired after 20 years in the Army with an honorable discharge. After serving his country, he worked for the United States Post Office for many years until his retirement.

Kates and his wife, Rose (Ortiz), were married for 40 years. They have three children: Eugene Monroe, Stacy Cumberledge, and Stan Cumberledge. He has one sister: Sara Jean Monroe Clark. He has six grandchildren and two nephews that he also loved very much.

Kates enjoyed visiting with friends, reading, and bird-watching. He was happiest when his grandchildren were with him.

He will be remembered for his kind heart and generosity. He will be missed greatly by all who were lucky enough to know him.

Services with military honors, will be held at the Dallas – Ft. Worth National Cemetary on Monday, July 24th, 2017 at 9:00 am.

Arrangements under the direction of NEPTUNE SOCIETY - Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX.