About Us

About Us

Since 1907, families have trusted the Ptak Funeral Home to serve and care for their loved ones. We promise to provide excellence in service and compassion during this difficult time of loss. Our experienced and dedicated staff can guide you in determining which service is appropriate for suiting your family’s needs. We are committed to arranging a funeral that is most befitting to your loved one, and we strive to celebrate their life in a meaningful way.

Our History

Ptak Funeral home was started by our Grandfather, Louis M. Ptak in 1907. Louis arrived in North Central Illinois in the late 1890's. He arrived by orphan train that originated in Pennsylvania. He somehow found a job in Peru, IL on the riverfront of the Illinois River, blocks from where we stand today. His job was tending the horses for a local funeral director and as they say, the rest is history. Like most funeral directors of his day he also dabbled in framing and furniture making to make ends meet.

Louis had several children follow him in the business. Jerome, who had a funeral home in Oglesby until his untimely death in 1928. Alex, our father, who along with Jim ran the funeral home in Peru until their passing. Marion got her license during World War II but did not practice.

Louis's grandchildren also have followed in the business. Dianne daughter of Jim has worked in California for several years as a funeral director. Sandy, Tom and Mark also received their license in Embalming and Funeral Directing and are the son of Alex. Sandy passed away at the age of 38 in 1983 leaving Tom and Mark to pursue their destiny sooner than expected. Tom and Mark now operate Ptak Funeral since 1986 leaving us to say “Service is our Heritage”