72, passed away Saturday morning, March 12, 2016. Born in Providence RI, he was the fourth son of Peter and Helen (Glowacki) Ptaszek.
George is survived by his two children; Son, Michael Ptaszek his wife Jennifer and their daughter Sophia. His daughter, Markae Marfia, her husband Stephen and their daughter Grace as well as his nieces, nephews and sister-in-law Rachel Ptaszek who was a source of strength for him after his brother's passing. He was the brother of the late Walter D, Joseph and Daniel Ptaszek.
George was an amazingly talented artist and designer. An accomplished Polka dancer and was well known for his sense of humor. Starting his career at age 16 after winning a full scholarship to the Art Center school of Design in California for one of his unique futuristic car designs. From there he was an immediate hire at General Motors in Michigan where he had the honor of working under such greats as Carroll Shelby and John DeLorean. While in California a member of the Lawrence Welk show spotted George polka dancing his heart out at "The Palladium" and approached him to Dance on the show and teach the cast his energetic style. From there his fun loving spirit made him a shoe in to become the HASBRO toys Vice president of Marketing and development where he stayed for many years before heading off on his own adventures as a self-employed Toy Designer starting the "Toy Farm" out of his home in Pascoag Rhode Island.
George went onto other design work later on in his career in which he flourished. After His retirement, he took a job teaching Art to the patients at The Zambarano Hospital in Pascoag working with some wonderful people like the late Frank Beazley, a quadriplegic who did amazing paintings with his mouth using special tools designed by George.
Calling hours will be held Saturday, March 19th at the Keefe Funeral Home from 12 until 3 pm followed by a service at 3 pm. The burial will be privately announced. George's final resting place will be at the "Gates of Heaven" Cemetery in East Providence, where George will finally be together with his parents and brothers. Rest in Peace Dad. We Love you.