Kenneth Casper Kates, Jr. D.D.S.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kenneth Casper Kates, Jr., D.D.S., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on June 26, 2026, in the presence of his loving family. Born on July 28, 1943, in Washington, DC, Kenneth was the cherished son of the late Kenneth C. Kates, Sr. and Marguerite Urban Kates. Kenneth, affectionately known as Ken, spent his childhood years in the vibrant community of Hyattsville, MD. He graduated from Northwestern High School in 1961, where he began cultivating a lifelong love for learning and service. After high school, Ken honorably served his country in the U.S. Army as a Dental Technician, an experience that sparked his passion for dentistry. He pursued higher education at the University of Maryland, ultimately fulfilling his dream by graduating from Georgetown Dental School in 1973. In the same year, Ken established a dental practice in Dunkirk, MD, where he devoted nearly four decades to providing compassionate care to his patients. Known for his gentle touch and caring demeanor, he was not only a skilled dentist but also a confidant and friend to many who passed through his office. Ken was a man of varied interests and boundless curiosity. He found joy in the skies, building and flying remote-controlled airplanes, a testament to his love for meticulous craftsmanship and innovation. His compassion extended beyond humans to animals; Ken and his wife Georgann opened their hearts and home to over 100 rescue dogs, ensuring each found a loving forever home. Ken is survived by his devoted wife of many years, Georgann Guidmore Kates, who stood by his side in love and partnership. Together, they raised four remarkable daughters: Virginia A. Kates, Marguerite A. Kates and her husband Tim Bockes, Katherine C. Kates, and Julia E. Kates. He was the proud grandfather of Emmett Loggins, who brought immense joy to his life. Ken also leaves behind his sister, Virginia Kates Willis, with whom he shared a close bond. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Julia Johnson, and his great aunt, Virginia Duval, whose memories he cherished dearly. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on July 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Jesus the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, located at 1601 W. Mt. Harmony Rd., Owings, MD 20736. A Visitation will be held prior to the Mass in the Church Chapel. A Lunch Reception in the Church Hall will immediately follow the Mass. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Ken are invited to join in celebrating a life well-lived. Interment of ashes will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Resurrection Cemetery 8000 Woodyard Rd. Clinton, MD 20735. Flowers may be sent to the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in honor of Ken’s generous spirit and dedication to helping others. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors of Calvert County and Johns Hopkins Oncology Dept. in Baltimore, MD, for their unwavering support and compassionate care throughout the years. Ken will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the indelible impact he made on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate his legacy and the love he shared with us all.