William R. Kates

William R. Kates, nickname Byrd to his younger year friends died suddenly on May 5, 2015 at age 58. Born in Philadelphia, PA on February 5 1957 to the late Sandy and Win Kates. Bill was an A.A. member and received his 5 year chip in October 2014. He was the             Commissioner of No Crying Fantasy Football League. His favorite TV Shows were Mash, Star Trek, Jeopardy, Family Feud and Columbo just to name a few.  He also liked Dirty Dancing the movie, John Wayne and Clint Eastwood movies and all the religious movies at Easter time.   His hobby for relaxation was his favorite pastime fishing, whether on a boat or on the beach, and he very much looked forward to and enjoyed the family camping trips.He liked playing cards, monopoly, risk, axis and allies, dice with buddies, decorating entire house for Christmas and making Christmas Dinner for his whole family and extended family, taking pictures and recording the grandkids, trips down the shore, going downtown on Good Friday. He always wanted to see the northern lights, honest was one of his best qualities, and he always had a story to tell, loved the casinos and betting on horses. Bill, Dad, Pop-Pop, Uncle Bill, Big Bill, Byrd will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Bill is the loving husband of Donnamarie (nee Ganz) Kates, whom he met in his mid-teens, and had his first kiss with on November 15, 1975, dated for several years having fun with friends and family, then on June 12 1982 took their wedding vows.  He is also survived by his three sons William B. Kates, Eric M. Kates and Shawn P. Kates, and his Grandkids Kayla Lynn Kates, Nicholas Eric Kates, William Alexander Kates, and Arabella Skye Kates, and his siblings Joanne, Wade, Ward, Wray Kates, and many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews all of those whom he loved and those who loved him. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing from 9:30-11 AM and to his religious service at 11 AM, on Saturday May 9, 2015 at the Walter J. Meyers Funeral Home 6645 Torresdale Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19135.  In lieu of flowers, please consider the needs of the family. Condolences may be made at www.meyersfh.com   Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing from 9:30-11 AM and to his religious service at 11 AM, on Saturday May 9, 2015 at the Walter J. Meyers Funeral Home 6645 Torresdale Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19135.  In lieu of flowers, please consider the needs of the family.