By Kathy Brown.
(Oct. 20, 2019) — In 1943, William Pytlik, Sr. began to mow the New Ponsett Cemetery when his mother died. His mother and four other relatives are buried there. Since then, his son William (Bill) Pytlik, Jr. and his grandson Will have also helped. Haddam-Killingworthnow.com spoke with Breanne, William’s granddaughter, about their dedication to the cemetery. “It’s a family affair to honor my great grandparents and relatives who are buried there,” said Breanne. “These two guys make me so proud. The Cemetery Association is very appreciative of them donating their time.”
On Sept. 18, 2019, at age 92, William Sr, was still riding the mower, and his son, Bill, used the push mower, cut up and removed fallen trees and brush, picked up headstones that have fallen over, and weed wacked. Will has helped out, and Breanne’s daughter, Kinsley, loved to watch her great grandfather mow when Breanne went over to bring drinks to them when they are out there working.
In 2016, the cemetery wasn’t visible from the road because it was so overgrown. In June of that year, Breanne’s family transformed the cemetery. Bill cleared the original roadway and brought up material to repair the road, so that since 2016, you are able to drive up and loop around the cemetery without having to back down. Bill also took down the sign and brought it to a local artist, Joe Cibula, to repaint. The Cemetery Association also had parts of the fence fixed.
“My dad loves spending the quality time with his dad, and loves that it’s a way to honor his grandparents and family members,” said Breanne. In 2016, Breanne shared the transformation on social media. And she shared photos again on social media, showing that the family was still at it, and “I just wanted to share that there are little things we can all do in this town to help out.”
Sadly, William passed away on Oct. 13, 2019, while this article was being researched and written. Bill mowed the cemetery that afternoon, because, according to Breanne, “that was their routine on Sundays.”
Photos by Breanne Pytlik.
Wonderful article about a special family …. RIP William Pytlik Sr. …. a great man. My Dad who knew him all his life always said he was a good guy.
Bill Sr was a kind, decent and caring Man that helped many many people in many ways. He didn’t do it for recognition , he did it because he cared and often just wanted to help someone less fortunate then himself get through a hard time ! All of his values were passed down to all of his children many that I have known my whole life I am lucky to say! The fact that Bill Jr helped him and will continue to care for the Cemetery says it all! The 🍎 Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!!