Charles Amasa Plato

Charles Amasa Plato, 77, of Wyoming, Michigan went home to his Lord on September 23, 2024. Charlie was born in Baldwin, Michigan, where he grew up in a large family. After graduating high school, Charlie moved to Grand Rapids and soon after, served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War. After his service he returned to Grand Rapids, where he raised his family and worked for Reynolds Metal for a number of years as a materials handler.

Charlie had a deep love for his family and those closest to him. Few things could bring a smile to his face faster than talking about his great-grandchildren or attending their events to support them in any way he could. Each of them held a special place in his heart.

Charlie had a generous spirit that radiated to those around him. In his earlier years, he made it a personal tradition to visit nursing homes dressed as Santa, bringing joy to residents who looked forward to his visits. This same devotion extended to his own family, as he made sure to appear as Santa for his younger grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, creating magical memories for them all.

Charlie had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and found joy in the freedom of the open road and often spoke of his rides. His love for motorcycles wasn’t just about the thrill of riding, but about the sense of adventure and community it brought him. Charlie left a lasting impression on everybody that came into contact with him. He will be greatly missed

Alongside his love for motorcycles, Charlie had a deep appreciation for music and sports, with the Detroit Lions holding a special place in his heart. No matter how the season went, Charlie was a loyal fan, always cheering for his team. He also cherished the simple pleasures in life, like a good meal or a hot cup of black coffee shared with family and friends. Whether at a local diner or sitting around, Charlie’s presence was always a comfort, and his warmth left a lasting impression on those lucky enough to know him. He was also known at many diners for the generous tips he would leave, a small gesture that reflected his big-hearted nature.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kimberly; his father, Eugene Plato; his mother, Gladys Patterson; two sisters: Clover, and Ellen; and seven brothers: Edward, Lawrence, Steven, Cecil, Richard, Gerald, and Michael. He is survived by his son, Robert Plato; four grandchildren: Ashley (Nathan) TerVeen, Brooke (Colton) Podbilski, William (Erica) Finkler, and Sarah Finkler; seven great-grandchildren; a half-brother, Murrel Patterson; two half-sisters: Edith (Stephen) Paul and Kelly (Jim) Dumaine; two sisters-in-law: Maryann (Lawrence) Plato and Terri (Steven) Plato, and numerous nieces and nephews.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.  Memorial services will be held Monday, October 7, 2024 at 6:30pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming. Visitation will begin at 6pm with a service at 6:30pm followed by visiting until 8pm. Burial will be private at Evergreen Cemetery in Baldwin, MI. If you are not able to attend the memorial services for Charlie, please feel free to send flowers to the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to The Wounded Warrior Project.