Raymond Charles Kates, 89, of Front Royal, passed away on Monday, October 17, 2016, in Amerisist Assisted Living in Front Royal.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 29, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home.

Mr. Kates was born on May 6, 1927, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, son of the late Albert Nelson Kates and Anne Bandi Kates. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, having served in the infantry during WW II in the European Theatre. Mr. Kates graduated from the American University Law School and was a member of the District of Columbia, Maryland, Florida and Virginia Bars, practicing in Front Royal for many years until his retirement. Mr. Kates had a lifelong passion for music, with interests ranging from Grand Opera to Dixieland. For over 40 years he was a sought-after barbershop quartet baritone.

Marriages to Marie English Kates and Geraldine Bauer Kates ended in divorce.

Surviving are a son Christopher Francis Kates of Baltimore, Maryland; one daughter Anne Kates Smith of Bethesda, Maryland; and four grandchildren.

Mr. Kates was a member of Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Front Royal.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Warren County, 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal, Virginia 22630.