Linford H. Kates died August 24, 2017 surrounded by family and friends in his final days. Never one to be told what to do, Lin made it a point to fight multiple myeloma on his own terms to the end. He now joins his parents, Linford and Mary Kates on the grand tour of the universe among the stars. Lin was born November 3, 1946 in Lansdale, PA and enjoyed a happy childhood with his brother John and a large family of aunts, uncles and cousins spending lots of time on the family farm or visiting the lakes of upstate New York. Lin went on to join the Army where he served two tours as a Captain of the Green Berets, befriended a monkey, was awarded several commendations and generally kicked ass. In the years following he graduated Magna Cum Laude at North Texas State University, became a distinguished accountant, met his future wife, traveled extensively while deep sea diving and finally settled down to have a family. Lin will be remembered for his love of nature and a good hunting or fishing trip, kindness to animals, and for always being humble to his fellow human beings, as well as his love of friends and a bit of hell raising.

Lin is survived by his wife, Susan Kates; his children, Allyson Vaughn and Garett Kates and three grandchildren.

Committal Service with Military Honors

11:15 AM, Friday, September 8, 2017 Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211

Those planning on attending the committal service should plan on arriving at DFW National Cemetery at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider making a donation in Lins name to Team Rubicon or to the Fisher House Foundation. Arrangements are under the direction of: ARIA Cremation Service & Funeral Home 19310 Preston Road, Dallas, Texas 75252 214-306-6700