Royal Palm Marina builder passes

Donald D. Platt, 91, of Englewood, passed peacefully guided by a beautiful Englewood sunset Monday, Jan. 9.

Born May 15, 1920, in Sarasota, the son of Joshua and Grace (Biorseth) Platt moved to Englewood at age 6. He graduated from Venice/Nokomis High School and then was stationed at Key West after enlisting in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Astoria. He was honorably discharged Oct. 2, 1945.

Owner of Platt's Gov't Surplus, builder, owner operator of Lemon Bay Marina, now known as Royal Palm. So proud to see his dream and plans for the marina as it is now. He believed in our community and the importance of preservation of the history.

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Donald Platt

The Pioneer Picnic was a favorite event he started to get all the generations together to enjoy fellowship, good food and lasting memories. His care and concern was evident as a founding father of Lemon Bay Historical Society and his involvement in many Englewood causes.

He was honored as a member of the Secret Society of the Smoked Mullets and with his portrait on Dearborn Street.

He is survived by daughters, Tammy (Ken) Birdsong and Midge (Bill) Orren of Englewood; sister, Dorothy Tuynman of Sarasota; grandchildren, Joshua (Gina) Newell, Melissa Meharchand, Rhiannon Meharchand, Ryan Meharchand, Tiffany Platt, Chris Platt and Savannah Platt; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers, Everett, Robert and Buddy; son Dee Platt; and grandson, Bradley J. Platt.

A memorial service in Platt's honor will be held at 4:30 p.m. Saturday at Royal Palm Marina. Memorial donations may be made to: Philanthropy Department, Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Boulevard, Sarasota FL 34238.

Lemon Bay Funeral Home and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements. Express condolences to the family at lemonbayfh.com.