PLATER, MAX
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of beloved Langley poet, Max Plater on June 12th, 2006. Sadly missed by his wife Judi Jardine, daughter Amber and son Trevor, mother Marie Plater, brother Trevor Plater (Sue), sisters Elaine Wood (Richard) and Julie Parkyn (Chris), mother-in-law Frances Jardine, sister-in-law Betty-Lou Morrison and nephews, nieces, cousins, and dear close friends. Predeceased by his father Fred and nephew James, Max cared deeply for his family and friends and will always be remembered as the humorist at family gatherings. Max was best known for his book of poetry, "Winter Fires" (Exile Editions), and his poetry has been published in The Nelson Introduction to Literature, Surrey Seen, The Amethyst Review, A Writer's World, Undertow, and Third World Canada. Max read in many venues, most recently on CBC radio. As an English, history and creative writing teacher and writing group member, Max was a well-loved mentor who took great joy in his students' successes. In his childhood he found refuge in nature - in the woods of High Wycombe, England, where he was born in 1948. A life-long naturalist, Max liberated many a tree facing destruction and he planted hundreds of rhododendrons and other trees at the family home. He wanted to live in a just and caring world and was politically involved at many levels. Max valued family history and researched ancestors for all branches of the extended family tree. A sufi at heart, he loved bright colours, gypsy music and free spirits.
The family wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to friends and neighbours who have so generously and selflessly supported the family at this difficult time.
A celebration of life will take place on Friday, July 7th at 1pm at Brookswood Baptist Church, 20581 - 36th Avenue, Langley.