“

He touched many lives through his kindness, friendship, and willingness to serve.

Robert (Bob) Louis Cate was born in Washington, D.C., on June 18, 1939, to Louis Alvin Cate and Roma Eppley Cate (née MacEwen). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Jean Cate; his sister, Roma Louise Cate; and his son, Timothy Robert Cate.

He is survived by his four daughters and three sons-in-law: Laura Lee Litten (Russell Litten), Marilynn Cate Foss (Peter Foss), Hope Anne Norris, and Joy Lynne Hall (Terrence Hall). He also leaves behind ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, who brought him tremendous joy and pride.

Bob grew up in Washington, D.C., where he developed a lifelong love of sports. He enjoyed playing for the local Boys Club, participating in sports at McKinley Tech High School, and spending time at the neighborhood athletic fields at Turkey Thicket. A devoted sports fan, he remained loyal to the Baltimore Orioles, the Washington Redskins, and the University of Arkansas Razorbacks throughout his life.

Some of Bob's fondest childhood memories were made during visits to his family's farm in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where his father had grown up. It was there that he learned to ride a horse and enjoyed fishing with his grandfather, experiences that helped shape his appreciation for the outdoors and the simple pleasures of life.

Bob graduated from the University of Maryland in 1967 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He went on to enjoy a distinguished 45-year career in the insurance industry, earning his Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation in 1988. After 30 years with GEICO Insurance Company, he continued his career with Farmers/Zurich Insurance Company, where he served as a Regional Underwriting Director until his retirement in 2006.

Faith and service were central to Bob's life. For 44 years, he was a devoted member of Riverdale Baptist Church in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Over the years, he taught Sunday school, served as both a Trustee and a Deacon, and generously gave his time coaching the women's softball team. His commitment to his church and his willingness to serve others were reflections of his deep and abiding faith.

In 2006, Bob and Nancy relocated to Milton, Delaware, where they became members of Grace Church. Bob continued his faithful service as a Deacon and greatly cherished the fellowship, friendships, and sense of community he found there.

Following the move to Delaware, Bob also began working at a new store in Lewes called Kitchen & Company. He soon became the "face of the company," with his photograph appearing in numerous promotional advertisements throughout Delaware—a role that suited his friendly personality and welcoming smile.

Outside of work and church, Bob enjoyed reading, particularly books about history. He also loved fishing and walking his beloved dogs, Winston and Luke, throughout his neighborhood of Wagamon's West Shores. Along the way, he developed treasured friendships with many of his neighbors. Bob genuinely loved people and took a sincere interest in everyone he met. He enjoyed hearing their stories, learning about their lives, and making meaningful connections wherever he went.

Bob will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his steadfast faith, his love of sports and the outdoors, and, above all, his genuine affection for people. He touched many lives through his kindness, friendship, and willingness to serve, leaving behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, church family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gone to Glory – October 29, 2026

Visitation: October 14, 1pm, Grace Church, Milton DE

Service: October 14, 2pm, Grace Church, Milton DE

Internment: Oddfellow Cemetery, Union Street, Milton DE immediately following service

Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Services in Milton, Delaware. Online condolences may be shared at www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com