Karla Marie Ptak of North Royalton, Ohio passed away on March 4, 2026. Born on August 14, 1941 to the late Bohumir and Viola (Racek) Ptak, Karla spent most of her life living and working in Garfield Heights, Ohio before finally settling in North Royalton, OH for her retirement years.

Karla was a class of 1959 graduate of Garfield Heights High School and a class of 1963 graduate of Kent State University earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. Putting that degree to good use, Karla returned to her alma mater and taught English at Garfield Heights High School until her retirement. Always one to encourage learning and knowledge, Karla was well-versed on a host of topics, loved engaging in intelligent conversations, and was still challenging herself to learn new things late in life.

Strongly independent, Karla devoted her free time to her passion for arts and crafts, traveling, cooking, and reading. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting and participating in crafting competitions where she won Best in Class and numerous first place awards at the Cuyahoga County fair. She also enjoyed traveling and seeing the world with her mother Viola and sister Zdenka. Never one to shy away from trying a new recipe, Karla was well known for her baking skills and you always knew you were in for a treat when her famous meatloaf was on the menu. Finally, after a long day, Karla enjoyed nothing better than curling up in her well-stocked library with a good book and a cup of tea.

Karla is survived by her brother Joe Ptak (Dolly), and five nieces and nephews, Debbi Wampler, Steve Ptak (Alicea), Joe Ptak Jr (Tricia), Lori Demeter (Ken), and Jeff Ptak (Carrie). She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Bo Ptak (Beverly) and sister Zdenka Ptak.

A celebration of Karla's life will be held at a later date by the family.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family on Karla's tribute page at www.waitefuneralhome.com.