Longtime Minnesota Mechanic and Family Man Michael Ptacek Dies at 69

Ptacek spent decades working as an auto mechanic and salesman before retiring to his dream lake home in Longville.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:22pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a serene lake surrounded by trees, with soft pools of warm light and color creating a peaceful, atmospheric scene.The tranquil lakeside setting where Michael Ptacek spent his golden years reflects the quiet, rural lifestyle that defined his life.Preston Today

Michael Steven Ptacek, a 69-year-old longtime resident of Grand Meadow, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, after a long battle with cancer. Ptacek spent his career working as a mechanic and salesman for various agricultural equipment companies before retiring with his wife Rhonda to their lake home in Longville. He was remembered as a devoted family man, active churchgoer, and skilled handyman who loved the outdoors and fishing.

Why it matters

Ptacek's life story reflects the changing nature of small-town Minnesota, where family-owned businesses and close-knit communities have faced challenges from larger corporate forces over the past several decades. His passing marks the end of an era for the region's agricultural equipment industry and the loss of a beloved local figure.

The details

Ptacek worked for Gehling Implement in Preston, Minnesota and later as a mechanic and salesman for Isenberg John Deere Implement in Spring Valley before taking a job as a maintenance technician and shipping coordinator at Hayfield Window and Door. After retiring, he and his wife Rhonda moved to Longville to live on a lake, their longtime dream. Ptacek was remembered as a skilled handyman who loved fixing things, watching birds, spending time outdoors, and fishing.

  • Ptacek was born on July 22, 1956 in Preston, Minnesota.
  • He married Rhonda Simonson of Grand Meadow in 1975.
  • Ptacek and Rhonda celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in September 2025.
  • Ptacek passed away on April 7, 2026 after a long battle with cancer.

The players

Michael Steven Ptacek

A 69-year-old longtime resident of Grand Meadow, Minnesota who worked as a mechanic and salesman for various agricultural equipment companies before retiring with his wife to their lake home in Longville.

Rhonda Simonson Ptacek

Ptacek's wife of 50 years, who moved with him to Longville after retirement.

Mildred McConnell Ptacek

Ptacek's mother, who lived in Spring Valley, Minnesota.

Joseph Ptacek

Ptacek's father, who lived in Spring Valley, Minnesota.

Everett and Violet Simonson

Ptacek's father-in-law and mother-in-law.

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The takeaway

Ptacek's life and career embodied the values of small-town Minnesota, where family, faith, and community have long been central. His passing marks the end of an era for the region's agricultural equipment industry and the loss of a beloved local figure whose memory will live on through his large, close-knit family.