Joseph Arthur Platte

Joseph A. Platte

Joseph A. Platte passed away peacefully at home in Claremont on February 3, 2026, attended to by loving family. He was 95. He died on what would have been his and his dear, late wife Sylvia's 75th wedding anniversary-a milestone he was immensely proud of. With Sylvia's passing in November of last year, this marked the first anniversary they would have spent apart, making the date a poignant final reflection of a lifetime of devotion.

Joe was born on August 9, 1930, in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, the youngest of seven children. He grew up on Lake Saint Clair, referring to it as 'the old swimming hole", and spent his childhood fishing, swimming and driving on the frozen ice in the winter.

He attended St. Gertrude's High School, where he met the love of his life, Sylvia. He often delighted in telling the story of enrolling in the Arthur Murray Dance School after meeting her, determined to learn how to dance well enough to ask her to prom. That decision began a love affair that lasted more than seven decades. They were married on February 3, 1951, beginning a marriage Joe regarded as one of his life's greatest accomplishments.

Joe and Sylvia built their first home together from a Sears kit and welcomed four children in Michigan. In 1958, they moved their growing family to California, where three more children were born.

In Michigan, Joe owned Platte Door and Woodworking Company, a business that reflected his skill, independence, and strong work ethic. In California, he worked as a maintenance supervisor for a local supermarket chain, later serving as a maintenance manager for a property management company. He retired in 1995.

Joe lived in the Highland Park area of Los Angeles before moving to South Pasadena in 1977. There, he and Sylvia shared a love of running and were regulars around the Rose Bowl. He also never lost his love of dancing. Joe joyfully danced with Sylvia at their children's and grandchildren's weddings, taking great happiness in celebrating family milestones by her side.

In 1998, Joe and Sylvia moved to Claremont, where Joe remained active and engaged. He faithfully attended the gym three times a week through the Silver Sneakers program. He also enjoyed traveling, taking several cruises and road trips.

Joe is survived by his children: Sondra Platte Muggee of Claremont, CA; Fred Platte (Debbie) of Rialto, CA; Cathy Ercek (Don) of Tujunga, CA; Theresa Gillette (Craig) of Chino Hills, CA; and Loretta Hamilton of Aliso Viejo, CA; as well as 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Sylvia on November 19th, 2025, and by two children, Mary Platte in 1993 and James Platte in 2003.

Joe's life was defined by devotion-to his wife, his family, and the values of hard work, commitment and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Those who love him take comfort in imagining Joe and Sylvia reunited, sharing one more joyful dance together.

A memorial service is pending.