Patrick Wallace Cator, Retired US Navy Master Chief

Navy Master Chief (E-9) Patrick Wallace Cator—born Patrick Wallace Hill—passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025, in Melbourne, Florida, at the age of 89, following a long battle with dementia.

In his final days, he was lovingly cared for in the family home by his wife of 43 years, Donna Fuller Cator; his son Joseph P. Wolf and Joseph’s wife Melanie Wolf; as well as his grandson Kolby Wolf, Kolby’s wife Kirstie, and their children Lucas and Lorelei.

A native of Washington, D.C., Patrick grew up alongside his best friend, William Becker—a D.C. police officer—and was deeply devoted to his grandfather, whose surname he later adopted. His Aunt Dorothy Cator, who helped raise him, fondly called Patrick her “firstborn.” In their later years, Patrick and Donna repaid that love by caring for Dorothy and her husband, Tom Evans.

Patrick enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1953 during the Korean War and served with distinction for 21 years. Rising to Communications Master Chief on the 7th Fleet staff, he held numerous critical assignments across the Pacific and Atlantic—including duty in Japan, Vietnam, Guam, the Azores, and Hawaii—and stateside at Patuxent River. His high-level clearances drew him into operations during the Cuban Missile Crisis and Vietnam. Though he always hoped for an Australian post, duty called him elsewhere.

After retiring, Patrick turned his meticulous mind and skilled hands to designing and building fine furniture, cruising the lakes aboard his beloved C-Dory, perfecting his golf swing, pursuing amateur gunsmithing, collecting curiosities, and nurturing flourishing gardens. Over the years, he and Donna embraced life in small towns, on their farm, aboard the C-Dory, and finally in Palm Bay, Florida. Their dog Skipper and cats Scooter and Karen—among nearly 50 animals they rescued—were constant companions, a testament to Patrick’s tender heart.

Family was Patrick’s anchor. He stepped in wherever needed, helping raise his grandchildren and caring for aging aunts and uncles. A man of duty, honor, and love, he lived these values daily.

Patrick was the son of Bernice Lucille Cator Gately and was raised by his grandparents, Charles Conrad Cator Jr. and Florence O’Toole Cator. Among many brothers, he is survived by his sister Judy Phipps. He also leaves his son Joseph and Melanie Wolf; the family of his late son James Wolf and James’s wife Christine Wolf; Steve and Leia Cator; grandchildren Kolby and Kirstie Wolf, Ashley Wolf, Adrian Wolf, Cameron Gonzalez, Kayla Barlett, Richard Barlett, Nathan Cator, and Ben Cator; and his brother- and sister-in-law Roger and Caren Keyser, along with their family. Patrick’s extended family was large, and he treasured every member.

Kind, generous, quick-witted, and ever ready for a lively political debate, Patrick took immense pride in his naval career. He will be remembered for his steadfast service to his country, his hearty laugh, and his warmth he brought to every gathering.