Obituary of Donna Cates

Ladonna Marie Cates May17, 1929 – September 19. 2015 Ladonna Marie Cates (neé Scharf) born May 17, 1929 passed away in the early morning hours of September 19, 2015. Donna was the youngest and last surviving child born to Adolph and Marie Scharf of New Prague Minnesota. She is survived by her husband, William (Bill); children Stephen (Jacqueline) , Cynthia (Steve), Kathleen (Jock), James, Barbara and Michelle; grandchildren Joel, Ryan, Zoe and Connor. Donna spent her childhood and young adult years in Minnesota and it is there she met Bill. They spent several years dating and were married in 1954 and soon started a family. She moved to Canada in 1965 when Bill accepted a position with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Donna and Bill met many friends that became very near and dear to them in their parish community of St. Philip Neri. With these friends they enjoyed many years of square dancing, New Years celebrations, back yard parties, birthday get-togethers and coffee times. She most enjoyed raising her family and seeing them start families of their own. Grandchildren were a special joy for her. Donna and Bill were able to acquire a cabin property and enjoyed many years of nature activities there. Donna was a very keen birdwatcher. She will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed.