Donnavon Cates, age 73 of Auburn, IA, passed away on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at Swan Place in Carroll, IA, surrounded by his daughters and their families. Donnavon James Cates was born on May 21, 1950, to parents Harlan and Florentine (Ludwig) Cates in Carroll, IA. He grew up in Lake View and attended grade school in Breda, IA. Donnie graduated from Lake View High School with the class of 1969. After graduating, he furthered his education attending Universal Technical Institute in Omaha and became a certified mechanic.

   Donnie was blessed with two daughters, Melanie and Jennifer, and later grandchildren whom he absolutely adored. He owned and operated D&M Auto in Auburn and was also a bus driver for the WLVA/ESC school districts. Donnie also farmed on the side, raising cows and farming the land. He served as a volunteer on the Auburn Fire Department for many years and served as assistant chief and chief. He enjoyed hunting, especially for deer and pheasant. Donnie obviously liked anything with a motor and always looked forward to attending tractor pulls. In his younger years he had a motorcycle that he enjoyed putting many miles on.

   Above all, Donnie enjoyed spending time with his family who meant the world to him. He loved gathering with them and having some “frosties”. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

   Survivors include his daughters, Melanie (Ron) Denney of Breda, IA, and Jennifer (Adam) Dentlinger of Carroll, IA; grandchildren Brandon (Josie) Denney, Aaron (Olivia) Denney, Makena Dentlinger, and Madison Dentlinger; sister Pat (Steve) Gosch of Sac City, IA; many other extended family members and friends.

   Donnavon was preceded in death by his parents, Harlan and Florentine Cates; brother Marvin (Marla) Cates; nephew Jamie Cates; and niece-in-law Tesa Cates.