Thomas James Ptacek

Thomas J. Ptacek, age 76, of Prescott, WI, formerly of Portland, OR, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Comforts of Home in Hudson, Wisconsin.

Tom was born on November 8, 1949, in Prescott, Wisconsin, to Donald and Charlotte (Farrell) Ptacek. He grew up in Prescott alongside his siblings, MaryJo, Mike, and Peter, and was a graduate of Prescott High School. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Portland.

In the early 1970s, Tom moved to Oregon to pursue a career in education. He began as an English teacher and, through dedication and hard work, advanced into administration, ultimately serving as a principal in Beaverton, Oregon. Tom had a natural ability to connect with students and was deeply respected for his understanding of young people. He led by example, was generous with his time and wisdom, and was known as an intelligent, fair, and compassionate leader. He was well liked by colleagues and treated everyone with kindness and respect.

Outside of his career, Tom loved to travel and had a deep appreciation for the theater, enjoying performances and the arts throughout his life.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, MaryJo.

He is survived by his brothers, Mike (Jan) Ptacek and Peter (Joan) Ptacek; brother-in-law, Lee Rusch; nieces, nephews; other relatives; and many special friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Joseph Catholic School in Prescott, Wisconsin.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1-5 p.m., Monday, March 23, 2026 at The Old Ptacek's Event Center, 1449 Orrin Road, Prescott, Wisconsin.