Theodore C. “Ted” Ptak, 82, of Housatonic, died at his home on Sunday, January 25, 2026. He was born in New Britain, Conn., on December 10, 1943, son of Chester J. and Bernice “Bea” (Boldyga) Ptak. He was predeceased in death by his brother Richard.
Ted was a graduate of the former Searles High School in the class of 1962, excelling in all sports. After high school, Ted went on to receive an associate degree from Albany Business College. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam.
Teddy was the proprietor of the former Pleasant St. Market and Liquors in Housatonic, where he made his well-known kielbasas alongside his father. He continued his love for people by working in the meat department at Price Chopper and also at the local high school. Ted was always a friendly face with an impeccable sense of humor and quick wit. Always the jokester, he loved making people laugh and engaging with friends and patrons. Everyone was always welcome at his home, and no one left without having a shot and a beer.
Ted was a communicant of the former All Saints’ Church, now Corpus Christi Church Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish. He enjoyed golfing and was a member at Wyantenuck Country Club, achieving a hole in one. He enjoyed spending time at his pool and the beach in Naples, Fla. He loved horse racing, Crown Royal, and cigars. Ted is survived by his wife Jeanie (Stawniak) Ptak, with whom he celebrated 60 years of marriage; his son Craig Ptak and wife Sarah of Dalton; his three daughters, Andrea Ptak of Cape Coral, Fla., Donna Hammer and husband Robert of Great Barrington, and Robin Kahler and husband Anthony of Louisville, Ky.; his eight grandchildren, Kyle and Kyra Debkowski, Morgan and Brandon Hammer, Georgia and Greta Kahler, and Aiden and Benjamin Ptak; and two great-grandchildren, Emmalynn and Frankie. He also leaves many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral Mass for Theodore “Ted” Ptak will be held on Saturday, January 31, at 10 a.m. at Corpus Christi Church Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Housatonic, with Reverend William P. Murphy, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in Saint Bridget’s Cemetery in Housatonic. Family will receive friends on Friday, January 30, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Birches-Roy Funeral Home, 33 South St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Condolences may be made through the funeral home’s website.
