It is so difficult to think of Michael Kates in the past tense. To us he was the very heart of Forestdale Heights Lodge. We will miss his warm and gentle presence. Rest in peace, Michael.
Elizabeth and Ivan Bloom

It was with sadness when we heard Michael had passed away, We knew Michael only for a short few years, but during that time we saw him frequently at our Lodge meetings and at all the different outings that we went to. As we got to know him more we found him to be a real “Mensch.” He was friendly and always helpful. He will be missed at the meetings and by the lodge members. He is now once again with his beloved Bonnie. R.I.P. Michael.
Richard Kotzen & Rhona Leviston

We are deeply saddened at the passing of our dear Michael Kates, (alav Ha’shalom). He was our rock, as well as one of our key founders. If you needed to know anything about Lodge activities or rules or having trouble with an important decision – just ask Michael; he would know what to do. We wish him peace. He will be sorely missed.
Ray & Rosalie Moscoe

Michael was a great person. I remember Michael and my dad putting little flags on the table together at my bat mitzvah. I enjoyed his company when he would come to my parents’ house for Friday night dinners or during the holidays. When I heard the news, I was so sorry to hear about his passing, but I know he is no longer in pain. All who knew him will miss him. I really enjoyed our weekly Facebook chats. We would “talk” and he would tell me how he was doing.
Jordana Rosen

 Two weeks ago, my parents and I went to see Michael in the hospital. About two hours after we left, he passed away. I didn’t know that until the next morning when my mom called to tell me. Originally, we were going to go and see him on Saturday so when Mitchell told my mom we should come that night, I will always be grateful.
Since Bonnie’s passing, I feel like our family, along with others, adopted Michael into their own. He and my parents became very close and we enjoyed our time with him. The four of us went to Buffalo for a weekend together, which resulted in many laughs and good times. He came to our family parties, Shabbat dinners, helped me move furniture and more.
He also went with my parents to Montreal a few times, the last time was when he was getting sick again and it was not confirmed at that time.
Selling the house and getting ready to have his own space for the first time was a big thing for Michael. He was determined to try to live his best life for the time that he could. Sadly, it was not long to be. That is the thing that makes me sad. He had such plans for a long life and that was cut short. That is hard to accept.
We sat together on New Years’ Eve and he enjoyed a really great pizza at Laterna. We had great conversations and even though that was the last time I spoke and saw Michael I will always remember his smile.
May Michael and Bonnie both rest in peace together.
Amen.
Lisa Silver