Gary “Bohunk” Ptacek, age 68 of Spring Valley, Minnesota lost his battle with cancer on October 14th, 2022 at home on his family’s farm surrounded by loved ones.
He is survived in death by his sweetheart Michele Nagele; children: Jesse (Raychel) Ptacek, Abby (Jak) Fessenden; grandchildren: Olivia, Milly, Teddy, Nelson, and Sameen; mother: Millie Ptacek; siblings: Kathy Ruesink, Greg Ptacek, Tony (Marcia) Ptacek, Debbie (Jon) Dahl, Rick (Kim) Ptacek, Kirk (Marty) Ptacek, Mike (Rhonda) Ptacek, Theresa (Bruce) Turner, Tommy Ptacek, Darla (Jeff) Bernard, and Jeff Ptacek. He is preceded in death by his father Joe Ptacek.
Gary was a man of few words. He was a simple, loving, humble and sometimes “wild” farm boy. Defining Gary is done best with this phrase: “why did it break and how does it work?” He was an industrious and diligent man; a self-made genius with true grit. He was known throughout the area as a man who could fix or repair anything. Gary did it with what he had to work with, even if that meant he had to create or invent a tool in the moment. Everything he did, had to be his way or it wasn’t good enough! And man did he love those grandchildren. They don’t make them like ‘ol Bohunk anymore. He will be missed by many. Drive fast and take chances Bohunk!
There will be a private ceremony for family followed by a celebration in Gary’s honor on Saturday November 5th, 2022 at 3pm in Ostrander, MN at Wolf’s Den and Susie’s Roadhouse.
In lieu of flowers, condolences may be sent to 632 Lyndale Ave, Spring Valley, MN 55975.
Memories and condolences of Gary may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
My prayers and condolences to the Ptacek family. May God wrap you in his loving arms and give you peace.
In Gods love,
Marilyn Lortscher
So many good memories of Gary. He was great friends with my first husband and was our best man in our wedding. He had a great laugh. RIP. Condolences to his family and friends.
Many memories of the quarter mile , motorcycles,
He will me missed
I have the most wonderful memories of Gary, and my brother Danny, laughing and telling stories. Mike was my age, and the stories I could tell on Tommy, when we were in 4- H. Rest in Peace Gary, your work on earth is done. My thoughts and prayers to the family.
Gretchen Schwartz Woodard
LET US all remember our wonderful friend as the guy who made us laugh, had a heart of gold, hard working and had an incredible love for family and friends. My heart is full of memories I will cherish always! I know you got this Gars
Let er eat = Bohunk
Truly one of a kind, a great friend, lots of fond memories with Bohunk, RIP my friend!
So many great memories. I’ve thought about him often. I’m sure the good Lord will take a liking to him as we all did.
Gary was a true friend to not only my brother Dan but our whole family. He could fix anything and would make a joke about it. Our family sends heart felt sympathy to the Ptacek family. He was one of a kind.
A great friend & He was always there when we needed him! Bohunk was “THE MECHANIC” & will be remembered for his relentless work ethic and mechanical expertise, his willingness to help others. Our deepest sympathy to his beautiful mother, his family, siblings & their families. Xoxo
Remembering when
“Goats” could fly (especially yours),
over the blacktop
and down the gravel.
Where through the door
and a tumble of cast off boots,
the cold cigar box collected quarters
for an icy brew returnable.
Laughter and stories rose above
The Hendrix Experience on the ‘table.
I see you there back-leaning the counter,
smoke in hand, so very young.
Your ever present grin
lit the room and warmed our hearts.
Those were the days my Friend.
We thought they’d never end.