He is survived by his wife Reva of 68 years, sons Michael Cates (Debbie) of Branson, MO and Mark Cates (Liz) of Holden, MO, three grandsons, Coy (Ann), Chance (Laura), Jeb (Amanda), one step-grandson Jeremiah Bridges (Beth), eight great-grandchildren Vanessa, Callie, Jackie, Whitney, Meredith, Camille, Abigail and Noelle, three step-great-grandchildren Gabrian, Sirion and Darien, brother Tom Cates, sister Carolyn Cunningham (Bryan), and numerous other relatives and friends.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Carl Cates and Lilly Sisco-Cates, brother Clifford and sister Manita Strawn.
Garland graduated from Alton High School in 1949. After he graduated, he went to work for Sheffield Steel in K.C., MO and later joined the Navy, serving on the Battleship Iowa. While serving in the Navy he married Reva Thompson on November 29, 1952. After Serving in the Navy, he returned to work at Sheffield Steel. In 1958 Garland accepted Christ as his Savior and was baptized into the Baptist Fellowship. He and Reva resided in Independence, MO. and raised their two sons during the 30 years he worked for Sheffield Steel. Garland retired in 1981 and returned to Alton where they farmed until 2013. In 2013 they retired from farming and moved to Holden, MO.
Graveside services will be 3:30pm Sunday, April 18, 2021 at the Bailey Cemetery with Bro. Bob Wiggs officiating. Pallbearers: Jeremiah Bridges and Coy, Chance, Jeb, Jim and Nathan Cates. Arrangements under the direction of the Clary Funeral Home, Alton, MO.
Memorial contributions may be made to: American Parkinson Disease Assn. 135 Parkinson AVE, Staten Island, NY 10305 1-800-223-2732
