John E Ptacek III

John Edward Ptacek, III, a devoted husband and father, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2024 at the age of 81, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on September 22, 1942, in Oak Park, IL, John was the son of Lola Morgan Ptacek and John Edward Ptacek Jr., whose sad passing occurred before John was born. He was also preceded in death by his mother and brother Gerald Thomas Schreiner.
John is survived by his devoted wife Susan and two loving daughters, Michelle Parsons (Stephen) and Heather Hanlon (Michael), and his five cherished grandchildren: Jack, Luke, and Benjamin Parsons, and McKenna and William Reid Hanlon.
John grew up in La Porte and Long Beach, IN along the shores of Lake Michigan, developing a love and respect for the water. He was known for his strength as a swimmer and diver and while working as a lifeguard saved the life of his future wife, Susan.
After graduating from Muncie Central High School in 1960 and attending Ball State University, John enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Bad Kreuznach, Germany during the Vietnam War from 1961 – 1964. He achieved the rank of Sergeant for the 62 nd Medical Group where he served as a flight medic on Helivacs. Due to his background as a swimmer, John trained water survival skills to Army Special Forces on Lake Cheimsee in Bavaria, Germany. John's time in the Army instilled in him a profound sense of duty and honor that he carried with him throughout his life.
Upon returning home, John was reunited with Susan, the love of his life, and they were married on February 25, 1967, in South Bend, IN. Their 57-year marriage was a testament to love, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Together, they raised two daughters, filling their live with adventure and unforgettable memories. John and Susan shared a deep love of nature, with some of their most cherished moments exploring the outdoors and watching the birds and animals at their homes in Michigan and Indiana.
John dedicated 33 years of his professional career to Ben Franklin Stores, where he served as Director of Franchising and Real Estate. Countless store owners considered him a personal friend, owing their successes to his support and mentorship. His dedication and passion for his work left an indelible mark on the company.
John was a member of St. Alphonsus of Ligouri Catholic Church in Zionsville, IN and served with dedication as a 4 th Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus, embodying the values of charity, unity, and fraternity in service to his community.
In his free time, John was an avid sportsman and could always be found outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and hunting immensely as it let him connect with wildlife. He also found great joy in playing golf, loving the camaraderie of the game and the peacefulness of the golf course. John never missed his daughters' golf matches and will continue to watch over his grandchildren as they pursue their many passions.
What John may be remembered for most of all is his natural gift for bringing laughter to those around him. His quick wit and infectious humor brightened the lives of everyone he met, making him a treasured friend and companion.
A celebration of John's life and visitation will be held at Palmer Funeral Home in North Liberty, IN on Friday, July 12, 2024 from 10am – 12pm. A gravesite ceremony will take place immediately after at Eastlawn Cemetery. Military honors will be rendered in recognition of his service to his country.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in John's memory to the St. Alphonsus Knights of Columbus Council #12510, at 1870 W. Oak Street, Zionsville, IN 46077.
John Ptacek will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his infectious sense of humor, and his honorable service to his country. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched as they cherish the memories of a life well-lived. May he rest in peace.
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