Contributions to the tribute of Michael Latter

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The family of Michael Latter uploaded a photo

Wednesday, August 16, 2017

2

The family of Michael Latter uploaded a photo

Wednesday, August 16, 2017

2

The family of Michael Latter uploaded a photo

Wednesday, August 16, 2017

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Allan Earle posted a condolence

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

It was with much surprise and sadness to learn of Mike's unexpected passing. Although Mike and I have been 'out-of- touch'... geographically speaking, of course... :) for a very long time, the memories of knowing and working with him remain with me still. I've had the unforgettable privilege of knowing and working with Mike at Geneva Park... 45 years ago, in fact... (as hard as that is to comprehend). Among my most indelible memories of him was his enviable talent as a guitarist and singer- songwriter. All these years later I can still recall one particular evening at 'GP' when he announced to his friends and co-workers that, as a lark, he would perform a song for the summer guests staying at 'The Park' during that evening's entertainment. So...??? What's the 'big deal', you're obviously asking, just as his friends and I were asking at the time? Well, the 'deal' was that he was planning to perform this particular song 'unplanned' and 'off the top of his head', without any prior idea of what he would sing. Well, you can just imagine the 'guffaws', the 'eye-rolls' and the laughter at such an outlandishly bold proclamation. In fact, I seem to recall there were such doubts that he could pull it off (without the audience realizing the song had just been 'made up' on the spot) that even a few small wagers were made that it could only end in disaster and abject embarrassment on his part. However, that evening came... the song was performed flawlessly and not a soul in the audience had a clue that it had never been sung before, while Mike, of course, collected on his bets and I'd like to think that we all shared in something quite special that night. Just one of many unforgettable memories I've kept of Mike all these years. He and his exceptional talent will most certainly be missed. I wish to express my deepest condolences to his mom and dad, Barb and Neill and to those of his family I've yet to meet. My thoughts are certainly with you. I'm only sorry I'm unable to be there in person. With my deepest sympathy and warmest memories... Allan Earle

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Melinda Gendall posted a condolence

Thursday, January 16, 2014

For the entire family of Mike Latter and his friends I offer my deepest sympathy. Compassion, empathy, perseverance, and insight were just some of the positive attributes Mike had. He taught me so much about writing, photography, and singing. He cared so deeply about others and so my words cannot capture the magnitude of who he was. Mike's words and music will continue to teach, to open doors, and shed light. He loved you all so dearly and will never be forgotten.

J

Jamie Prentice posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

I remember many happy days with Mike. He was so kind to my kids (who were trying to play guitar), to me and to Rob/Laz. I am very sorry for the family's loss and wish you comfort in the days ahead.

J

Jim Harris posted a condolence

Friday, January 3, 2014

Hi. I was saddened to learn of Michael's recent passing. I knew him as a fellow musician with the Orillia Folk Society, had heard him perform, had conversed some with him. At one point several years ago, I learned he had developed an illness, and he was finding it more and more difficult to get out and participate. He lived for a time in a small apartment in mid-town. One day he phoned, and asked that I drop in to visit some time. One morning I did that, and we conversed for awhile, about his career background, about his family, about music. He lifted up a long, narrow box, opened it and pulled out a really nice-looking mountain dulcimer. He had built this instrument, and the box it was kept in. It had a nice tone, and a soft strum to it. "I want you to have this," he said. I think I stammered an appreciative response, as I was so taken by surprise! So I took it home with me. I do play it, and have performed with it on occasion, and once took it with me to the Celtic College at Goderich, where it was used by myself as well as other mountain dulcimer players. I have always been sure, especially around Orillia, to make listeners aware that it is the 'Mike Latter Dulcimer' because, as I feel, it is more an instrument that belongs to the community of musicians - especially for those in the Orillia Folk Society who knew him - than just to me. (I also take this position, by the way, with the hammered dulcimers I possess - that they are actually a possession of the Southern Ontario Dulcimer Association, and not just mine.) So I will look for occasions to have this instrument out where people can see and hear it and be informed about its background, with appreciation for the opportunity!JimH

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Ron Belanger posted a condolence

Friday, January 3, 2014

I would like to express my condolences to Mike's children, grand children and his parents Barb and Neil. Mike was a very good friend and we spent a lot of time together. I enjoyed his sense of humor and his stories. He taught me a lot about being grateful for what I have in my life and enjoying the little pleasures that each day brings. I am missing him a lot.

In loving memory of

Michael

1950 - 2013