Harris County Treasurer Jack Cato passed away earlier today.
Cato, 70, has been county treasurer since 1999. From 1995 to 1998 he was the spokesman for the Houston Police Department. Cato also spent 25 years with KPRC-TV working as a photographer and reporter. Cato is married and is survived by two children and seven grandchildren.
In March, Cato beat Houston former city councilman and mayoral candidate Orlando Sanchez to remain the Republican nominee for Harris County treasurer. Cato was to face Democrat Richard Garcia for the job.
Harris County Commissioners Court will move the assistant treasurer, Linda Langlois, to fill the treasurer position until the November election.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
I’ve mentioned before that I knew Jack through the local tournament bridge scene. He was a good guy, a colorful character, and a tough competitor. He will be missed. Rest in peace, Jack Cato.
UPDATE: More here.
I hate to take a turn to the political ramifications of Cato’s passing so soon…
What is the protocol for selecting a replacement GOP candidate for county treasurer now?
“What is the protocol for selecting a replacement GOP candidate for county treasurer now?”
Probably like how the County Attorney was selected: the candidate who comes in last in a republican primary field of five.
I met Jack Cato once when I was in collge and working my way through at Sam’s Wholesale Club. The guy was friendly and a real nice guy. Just a brief conversation but he really impressed me as a very decent guy. RIP indeed.