MPD mourns loss of longtime officer

Retired Captain and former Justice of the Peace Christian “Chris” Plack Sr. passed away recently

Milford Police Department recently announced the loss of a longtime officer, Christian “Chris” John Plack, Sr., who passed away on August 4 after a longtime illness. Plack retired as a captain with Milford in 2007.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of former Milford Police Captain Christian “Chris” Plack Sr.,” Timothy Maloney, Public Information Officer for MPD said on social media. “Captain Plack was an amazing father and devoted husband of 50 years. He was a mentor to many, but more importantly he was a friend. We extend our most sincere condolences to his wife, daughter, son and family.”

Plack was born November 20, 1954, the son of the late Dorothy and William Plack. He attended the Delaware State Police Training Academy and graduated in the 11^th Municipal Class of 1977. He also attended the FBI National Academy, Criminal Justice Education, Session #181, in 1995, and received an associate’s degree in criminal justice in 1996.

Plack began his career in Seaford, working there from 1976 to 1980 before transferring to Milford. While serving in Milford, he was named Outstanding Policeman of the Year by the Milford Elks Lodge twice, in 1984 and 1996. He organized the Volunteer Senior Patrol Unit in 1977, a project that earned a Governor’s outstanding volunteer award. In 2002, Plack initiated the downtown surveillance camera system.

In 2002, Plack received the Life Saving Medal when he performed CPR on his two-year old niece, Cara, who had fallen into a pool. Then-Senator Joe Biden recognized him for his heroic act.

After serving in law enforcement for 32 years, Plack was appointed as a Kent County Justice of the Peace by Governor Ruth Ann Minner, serving as a Magistrate Judge at Court 7 in Dover from 2007 to 2010.

A founder and past president of the Kent-Sussex Sunshine Foundation, Plack helped many terminally ill children fulfill dreams with funds raised from the community. He also served with Crisis Response International, traveling to numerous stateside hurricane and tornado sites to provide assistance. He found joy in helping others and was especially proud of assisting the Ukraine devastation and earthquake assistance in Turkey. His final deployment was to Cuba where he helped build a church.

As much as he loved service, his greatest joy was his family, laughing and playing practical jokes. The outdoors was special to him where he spent time hiking, biking, kayaking and walking the beach with his metal detector. He was an avid Civil War re-enactor with the Confederate 18^th Virginia, combining his love of history and guns.

He and his wife, Deborah, attended Destiny Christian Church for 37 years. In addition to his wife, Plack is survived by his daughter, Andrea Plack and her fiancé, Brian Brittingham; his son, Christian Plack Jr. and his wife, Jessica; grandsons Aidan, Owen, Alex and Bodhi. He is also survived by an aunt, Harriette Purnell (“Trouble”), his brother, William F. Plack, III and his wife, Christine; a sister Dauna Dean and her husband, Zack, along with multiple nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his infant son, Matthew and his parents.

Outpourings of sympathy were expressed on social media when the news of Plack’s passing was announced.

“Chris was my FTO when I graduated the academy, he became a good friend and someone I respected and could ask for advice during my career,” Dion Brooks commented. “I will miss his laugh and practical jokes, thank you for everything, brother.”

Anita Beyard recalled working with him the 1980s, stating he was a “super nice guy.”

“He was definitely a cop’s cop and, as a judge at court 7, he was always fair to the people,” Larry Simpkiss commented. “I wish I knew him more, but I am so glad I knew him. Rest well, my friend.”

Juanita Anderson Webb recalled spending time at Plack’s home as a childhood friend of his sister while Kimberly Walls recalled waiting on him at the Tastee Freez.

“Sending my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues,” Jack Stewart commented. “He was a very nice man and he sure left a lasting impression on the City of Milford and will always be remembered fondly.”

A memorial service will be held at Lighthouse Christian Church, 347 Calvary Road in Milford on August 22 at 12 Noon where friends may gather at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations in his name to Crisis Response International, 2494 Camp Jaycee Road, Blue Ridge, VA. 24064 or www.criout.com.