Sharon (Wells) and Jim Cates
5173 Shannon Rd. NE
Silverton, OR 97381
Phone: (503) 873-3589
Email: sharoncates@msn.com

After graduation in 1955, Sharon followed her mother's lead and went to work for the State of Oregon. Starting off in the typing pool, she worked her way up to the Dept. of Finance, where, as a Clerical Supervisor, she prepared the budget for the Governor to present to the legislature, and then oversaw the spending during the biennium. In 1964, Sharon went to work for a locally based insurance company in Salem. After 3 months, she and her boss left the company and went into business for themselves, and have continued in that business for the past 35 years. She has been married to that "boss" (Jim Cates) for the past 34 years. In 1990, Sharon and Jim took over Sharon's family homestead - The Kephart Farm - near Central Howel School, just off the Silverton/Salem road. They have been restoring it to it's pre 1972 condition. In 1996 they moved their financial services business to the farm. [Boy, what a life!] Visitors are always welcome, just look for the "Kephart Farm" sign. [Ask Sharon about her cat house.]

After the 45-yr reunion, Dave Nelson visited the farm on the way back to the Wittenberg Inn from the Beesley picnic. The light was getting bad, but he managed to snap a few pictures. They are included below, without approval or editing from Sharon and Jim.

The Kephart Farm: In the midst of Oregon grass-seed country between Silverton and Salem lies a little piece of heaven.

Restored Farm House: This is a view looking toward the South. It shows off the restored porch. Much of the restoration was done by Dan Barthold.

Insurance Office: This view is looking North. The entrance to the office is on the East side. Note the building to the West of the office. It has special significance (see below).

Entrance to Office: This is a view looking toward the West.

The Cat House: This is the building of special significance. Inside is Sharon's family of felines.

Time to head home: This is a view looking toward the East. It shows the rear of the farm house. Dan Barthold is saying goodbye. Judy Nelson is waiting patiently for Dave to finish taking pictures.

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