Dennis Robert Platt

Dennis Robert Platt was born on August 28, 1941, in San Francisco, California, the eldest child of Harold and Virginia Platt. His father, Harold, was a radio and television broadcaster for NBC and notably the voice who announced the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The family later moved to Southern California, where Dennis grew up in the San Fernando Valley.

Dennis discovered his passion for building early in life, beginning as an apprentice for a cabinet contractor. That passion led him to earn his California state contractor’s license in 1971. Over the years, he built homes for celebrities and worked on landmark buildings throughout Los Angeles. His greatest achievement was the Victorian replica known as The Platt Building in Winnetka, California, a project that reflected his craftsmanship, vision, and attention to detail, and one that earned recognition in magazines and newspapers.

A man of wide-ranging interests, Dennis loved off-road racing, achieving a first-place win at the prestigious Mint 400 in 1975, along with many other racing events. He was also a devoted coach for his children’s baseball and football teams and played for years in a winning adult softball league, always sharing his love of sports and teamwork.

Classic cars were another lifelong interest. Building and restoring them led to numerous trophies at car shows. Family adventures filled the years and included snow and water skiing, dirt biking, boating, camping, and climbing Mount Whitney. Multiple marathons, including the Los Angeles Marathon, were completed, and square dancing was enjoyed alongside his wife, Vicki.

Dennis had a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship. He restored old clocks, collected antiques, and brought that same care to projects for his grandchildren, building forts, playhouses, and even a zipline in their backyard. Gardening and landscaping projects were always being done, alongside his loyal dog, Ginger.

Dennis and Vicki opened their home to several young people in need, offering guidance and stability. He mentored many young men, shaping their construction careers and leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

In 2018, Dennis showed remarkable courage during the Woolsey Canyon fire, standing with his grandson and nephew to protect their home and neighbors’ homes in Bell Canyon when firefighters were stretched thin.

Dennis never believed in retirement because he loved his work. His life was tragically changed when he was struck by a driver who ran a red light, leaving him with devastating injuries. Though his plans were cut short, his legacy of generosity, skill, and courage endures.

Dennis Robert Platt was a builder in every sense of the word. He built homes, careers, confidence, and community. He will be remembered for his strength, generosity, craftsmanship, and the countless lives he touched.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Vicki Platt; six children and their families: Tammy, Sherri, Jami (Phil), Scott (Cristie), Danny (Tina), and Lacey; his sister, Kathy Palmer; and his brother, Steve (Sharon) Platt; seventeen grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)