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Jim Ploska Obituary
Born on September 22, 1949, in Queens, New York, Jim was the eldest son of James and Irene Ploska. Raised in West Islip, Long Island, Jim graduated from West Babylon High School in 1967. After serving in the National Guard, he worked as a laborer and eventually built a successful commercial contracting business, APM Construction. In 1994, he relocated his family and rebuilt his business in Port Orange, Florida.
Jim had a magnetic personality and a dynamic sense of humor that people were drawn to. He was innovative, intelligent, creative, and mechanical, with a myriad of interests. Jim was an exotic car aficionado who enjoyed playing tennis, boating, flying airplanes, listening to music, and playing guitar.
Jim was a dedicated father who taught his daughters everything he felt would prepare them for this world. He was always there for advice and available at the drop of a hat in times of need. Once his children were grown, Jim liked to be involved in his community volunteering at Spruce Creek High School, helping to build the Cross Creek Community Church, and participating in 4ocean beach cleanups.
On weekends, Jim and his beloved wife and best friend Stephanie frequented Tampa Bay Rays games, rock concerts, slot tournaments in Atlantis and Tampa, and Bike Week, but mostly enjoyed golf cart rides with their dog Ruble and lounging by the pool.
Jim is survived by his wife, Stephanie, and his four daughters, Andrea Hocker, Megan (Mike) Tardio, Kristen (Tom) Butler, and Halley Urbanak; his grandchildren Sarah, James, Brian, Grace, Michael, Madelin, Vivien, Hayden and Bryce; his two younger siblings, Robert Ploska and Lorraine Stegemann and his nieces and nephews; Danielle, JoAnna, Alex, Willow, Orion, and Max.
We are grateful for any thoughts and prayers from family and friends. In lieu of flowers, Jim's family welcomes you to send donations to Halifax Humane Society or 4ocean.
A celebration of life will be held at Cross Creek Community Church, 424 Luna Bella Lane, Suite 120 in New Smyrna Beach on Friday, April 21 at 4pm.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Susan, Christine and Elaine (the Lanzon Family)
April 25, 2023
We are saddened to hear of our Cousin Jimmy´s passing, and send our condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. We have happy memories of Jimmy and his music, his humor, his brilliant smile, and his beautiful family.
Valerie Koscik, (sister to John Koscik)
April 23, 2023
I am so very sorry, Lorraine & John. Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss and to all who knew & loved "Jim".
May our Heavenly Father comfort you in your sorrow and guide you, in your hearts & minds, daily, throughout your grief, and in the days ahead.
I ask this in the name of Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen
Deborah Gifford Milligan
April 21, 2023
Jim was my neighbor as a child growing up in Oakdale, NY. Andi (Jim´s daughter) is my lifetime best friend. Having spent my childhood running through their house, swimming in their pool and countless sleepovers; Jim and Stephanie´s kindness and generosity radiates as I think about them. Other memories include loud music playing on life-sized speakers hanging from the ceiling, Jim playing his guitar and singing "Dust in the Wind, " watching scary movies (Halloween) and washing his fancy cars. Jim´s playful spirit was fun to be around and made me laugh all the time! I will forever treasure these memories for they are a part of my fabric. Rest In Peace.
My heartfelt condolences are with Stephanie, Andi, Megan, Kristin, Halley and the family.
Martin
April 21, 2023
From talking about cars and watches to how to handle the in-laws or appropriate gifts for the wife, Jim was always there to listen, offer good advice, and share his experiences. Jim was great that way and I´ll never forget.
Condolences to Stephanie and family.
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Mark Goldstein
April 21, 2023
I am very sorry to hear the news and would like to offer my condolences. I am a friend of Jim's brother Robert who informed me and sent me the link to this page. I first met Jim in 1970 when he was living with his immediate family in West Islip. I was in a band with Robert at the time and we had regular band rehearsals there for several years. Jim also came to my home for guitar lessons a few years before he relocated to Florida around 1994. Hearing the news was extremely upsetting. I once again offer my condolences to the family.
Mark Goldstein
April 21, 2023
I am very sorry to hear the news and would like to offer my condolences. I am a friend of Jim's brother Robert who informed me and sent me the link to this page. I first met Jim in 1970 when he was living with his immediate family in West Islip. I was in a band with Robert at the time and we had regular band rehearsals there for several years. Jim also came to my home for guitar lessons a few years before he relocated to Florida around 1994. Hearing the news was extremely upsetting. I once again offer my condolences to the family.
Doug Gifford
April 21, 2023
Mr. Ploska was an amazing man. Warm thoughts and prayers.
George & Nancy Gifford
April 20, 2023
Our prayers and love are with the Polska family at this difficult time !!! Fondly, George & Nancy Gifford
LI Oakdale, NY
JimDietz
April 20, 2023
Graduated with Jim in the West Babylon class of 1967. I always enjoyed my time with Jim in the Trumpet section of the high school band. While I hadn.t seen Jim since shortly after graduation, I thought of him and the times we had often..... RIP Jim....
Kat Ruddy
April 20, 2023
I have so many fond memories of "Big Jim" from childhood and beyond. He was always upbeat and happy, making light out of even grim situations. He will be deeply missed. Sending much love and prayers to Steph and family
Tallahassee Renegades 9U Baseball Team
April 20, 2023
Kristen and the Ploska family. The Tallahassee Renegades Baseball family sends our condolences to you. Our love and support are with you and your family.
Stephen Ploska
April 20, 2023
Stephanie and all the family, Bobby, Lorraine we got the devastating news and are so upset by this, you are all in our prayers. Our hearts goes out to you in this so difficult time. Although we are far away and have been out of touch for a while, the love and thoughts for Jimmy and all the family have never been diminished. This is such a huge loss. We know He really touched so many lives and made such a difference in the world. We have always been proud of Jimmy and will continue to be. This sudden loss is horrific and we pray you stand strong in such a difficult time. Feel free to reach out if you need anything, we're a call away. All our Love Stephen&Claudia, Paul, Philip, Aunt Dora
Sineadanne Coffey
April 20, 2023
Andy and Megan, I am so sorry to hear this news. I have very fond memories of your Dad growing up. RIP He will always be my 911 mansincere condolences to the rest of the family.
Sineadanne P Coffey, West Palm Beach
Frank and Candace Gabeletto
April 20, 2023
Stephanie and family, we are deeply saddened by this news. Jimmy was full of life and lived that way. The entire Ploska family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Maritza Reyes
April 19, 2023
Halley I am very sorry for your loss. My love and prayers are with you and your family
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