Rod Kates

Rod Kates passed away at home on December 10, 2025, with his family by his side.

Born in Pacific Junction, Iowa, Rod grew up in Terre Haute, Indiana, where he graduated from Schulte Catholic High School. Afterward, he studied at a Franciscan Novitiate in Angola, Indiana, then attended Ivy Tech College, earning his practical nursing certificate. He later completed his registered nursing degree at Lincoln Trail Community College. Most of his career was spent in nursing management, but he especially valued his time as a hospice nurse, caring deeply for patients and families.

Rod was devoted to being the best husband, father, and grandfather he could be, always putting his family first. He cherished time with his children and grandchildren, and visits to the Smoky Mountains were among his favorite activities.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Heather; his parents, Henry and Lucille (Richardson) Kates; brothers, Mike and Kenny Kates; brother-in-law, Loren O’Neal; and sister-in-law, Cindy Kates.

Rod is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kathleen (Gallagher) Kates; daughter Amy (Joe) Reising; son Chris (Marcella) Kates; daughter Marideth Kates; grandchildren Matt Reising, Jon (Bailee) Reising, Scarlett Kates, and Henry Kates; sister Judy O’Neal; and several nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Pat and Joyce Rhodes and Sherry Hume for their longtime friendship, and to AseraCare Hospice of Evansville for their care.

Friends may visit on Monday, December 15, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Stodghill Funeral Home, with the rosary recited at 4:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place Tuesday, December 16, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Snake Run, officiated by Father Gary Kaiser. Visitation at the church begins at 9:00 a.m., and burial will follow at St. Bernard Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Conventual Franciscan Friars (6901 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40258) or AseraCare Hospice (8401 North Kentucky Avenue, Evansville, IN 47725).