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We are deeply saddened to announce the February 15, 2025, passing of Ron Cates, founder of Smoke on the Water Productions. He leaves behind his beloved daughter, Kirbi Cates, brother-in-law Tim Ratcliff, sister-in-law Kim Cates, cherished extended family members, close friends who are like family, and his hundreds of friends in the competition barbecue world.

He joins his parents, Dennis and Betty Cates, his sister, Belinda Cates Ratcliff,

and his brother, Eddie Cates.