In loving memory of

James Joseph Cates
September 3, 1970 - July 10, 2021

James Joseph Cates, 50 of Fort Dodge, passed away on July 10, 2021, at his home in Fort Dodge.
A private family celebration of life will be at later date.
He is survived by his daughter Whitney Hiner of Rockwell City and son Brandon Cates of St. Cloud, MN; father Marvin (Sherry) Cates of Rockwell City; brothers Jeff Cates of Rockwell City, Jon (Amanda) Cates of Lima, NY; and stepbrother Dan Thompson; sister Janelle (Jerredd) Elken of Jefferson, and stepsister Michelle (Rich) Brown of Rockwell City, and sister-in-law Suzi Bell of Rockwell City.
He was preceded in death by his mother Marla Cates, stepbrother Bill Thompson, and sister-in-law Tesa Cates.
James Joseph Cates was born on September 3, 1970, in Manning, Iowa. He graduated from Rockwell City High School. Jamie was an accomplished carpenter, working for several different companies. He worked at Pottroff Construction in Jefferson for many years. Jamie had been employed with United States Gypsum at the time of his passing.
Cards of condolence may be sent to Brandon Cates 7896 Bel Clare Drive, St. Cloud, MN 56301 and Whitney Hiner 105 Butler Street, Rockwell City, Iowa 50579.
Laufersweiler Funeral Home is serving the family.

Tributes

Debbie Raynor wrote on Aug 13, 2021:

"Rest easy.. You took a piece of me and the kids with you. Soar with the angels. You will be missed by many jamie."

Steve Barnhardt wrote on Jul 16, 2021:

"I will miss you more than you will know. Although we only met a few years ago, you became one of my best friends because I could trust you. Your big heart showed in your willingness to help people through tough times or when they got in over there heads with a project. Jamie, the thing I will miss most about you is our drives through the country side and talking about life on life's terms. You were my brother and my life is better because I've known you."