Billy Ptak It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear brother, William J. Ptak (Billy), of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of Highlands, New Jersey, on Friday, August 30th, after a brief illness. He was a cherished member of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jacksonville and previously a devoted communicant of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Highlands.Billy Ptak
Born on February 7, 1947, in Long Branch, New Jersey to Benjamin and Geraldine Ptak, Billy was a shining light in our family. The typical big brother, we grew up side by side in a Polish-Irish catholic family, facing life’s challenges, joys and love–but always together.
His love for music, his talent for playing and teaching the piano, and his dedication to his church communities were truly inspiring. An eternal optimist, Billy was a pillar of strength and a beacon of hope, known for his gentle wit, gregarious laughter, and kind soul.
Billy honorably served in the U.S. Navy from 1975 to 1984, embodying a deep sense of service to his nation and community.
His lifelong commitment to safeguarding others was evident in his years as a lifeguard at his beloved Sandy Hook and in Jacksonville.
A free-spirited soul who never met a stranger, he had a passion for travel, whether exploring foreign lands with his extensive language skills or visiting both popular and obscure historical sites here at home.
He appreciated life’s finer yet simple details, from fine dining and good wine to lengthy, intellectual conversations with family and friends.
Billy was predeceased by his brother Thomas in 1968; his father Benjamin in 1984; his niece Kate in 1987; his wife Ellen in 1992; and his mother Geraldine in 2003.
He is survived by his son, Benjamin R. Ptak of New Jersey, and nine brothers and sisters Karen (Peter) Noonan of California; Gregory (Tari) of Pennsylvania; Eileen (Vince) Feliccia of Maryland; Andrew Ptak of New Jersey; Maryann (Jimmy) Stryker of California; Joanie (Gene) Holloway of Florida; Anne (Glenn) Bremmer of Tennessee; Marguerite (Ron) Ates of Tennessee; Peter (Tanya) Ptak of New Jersey; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will treasure his memory.
A funeral mass will be offered at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 12th, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Highlands, New Jersey, followed by interment at Mount Olivet in Middletown, New Jersey.
The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorial contributions be made to your favorite charity in Billy’s memory.
