Harold J. Cates

Harold J. Cates, age 49, of Orlando, passed away March 9, 2015.

Harold Joseph Cates, HJ, age 49, of Orlando, FL passed away on Monday, March 9, 2015. HJ graduated Valedictorian from Boone High School in 1983. In 1989, he graduated with high Honors from the University of Florida with a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. While attending the University of Florida, HJ was Executive Vice President of Delta Upsilon Fraternity. He was also a member of the Florida Blue Key Honor Fraternity where he was recognized for his outstanding ability, leadership and service to the University of Florida. Further, HJ was President of Omicron Delta Kappa Society, where he was recognized for his exceptional leadership achievements and service to the University of Florida. HJ was not only a leader, but an academic scholar having been invited to join and becoming a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society where he was recognized for his outstanding academic achievement.
After graduating from the University of Florida, HJ was an engineer for Lockheed Martin and DME Corporation. Most recently, HJ was Team Leader and System Engineer with Philips Healthcare.
HJ was a loving husband, son, brother and uncle. HJ was a loyal Gator fan. He enjoyed taking cruises, snow skiing, white water rafting, and entertaining guests both in his home and at the Swamp. Most of all, he enjoyed his family and laughing.
HJ was known for his intellect, Gator tenacity, kind heart, generosity to others, love for children, and his infectious laugh.
HJ exemplified these attributes even after his passing by giving his heart to two special little girls.
He is survived by his wife, Sonia and precious pets Kali, Rusty and Ella; Parents Dr. Harold T. Cates (Sue), Paula Nowell; Siblings Kimberly Caso (Diego), Andrew F. Cates (Erin); Robyn Romanoff (Robert), Erik Borresen (Keir); Joseph Baker (Audra), John Baker; nieces and nephews, Talia, Diego, Nicolas, John Walker, Andrea, Robert, Ryan, Erik Jr., Kristen, Brittney, Gavin, Ashley and Abby.
Memorial Service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, Reformation Chapel, 106 East Church St, Orlando FL 32801, on Saturday,2pm. March 21, 2015. Parking is available in the Jackson Street Garage. The entrance is on Liberty Street.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Suncoast Animal League www.suncoastanimalleague.org or First Presbyterian Church of Orlando.