Mike Pariso | Facilities Manager

Tell us about him
Mike is married to his sweetheart, Pam. They have a blended family of four adult children, three grandchildren and one on the way. He has almost 40 years experience in the Industrial Arts and has been a cabinet maker for many years.

Where he learned his stuff
Although his educational background is in Engineering/Industrial Arts, he spent most of his career in sales and marketing of military related electronic components and commercial satellite TV processing equipment.

The college years
He was a champion swimmer in high school and college, but his college years were interrupted by service in the Air National Guard during the Viet Nam years.

How he stays on top of trends & developments in the industry
By reading trade magazines, attending conferences and attending continuing education classes.

What are his spiritual gifts
He has the spiritual gifts of service, hospitality and craftsmanship.

What are his passions
He has a passion for cooking and loves to entertain guests with homemade dinners, specializing in BBQ and Italian dishes. He doesn't do baked goods because you have to follow the recipes exactly as they are printed.

What makes him laugh
Slapstick comedy, especially the old timers like Danny Kay and Red Skelton

What makes him cry
Prayer time – "I always get emotional during prayer"

Pet peeves
People with 27 items at the 12 or less express checkout lane.

What he does for White River
He is the Facility Manager. His typical day starts with a walk around the facility to check safety and security problems and to assure the facility is fully functional.

What are his dreams for the future
Facilities Ministry – to develop a team of volunteers that "own" various areas of the facility. For example, he is planting a rose garden and would like to have a home group or small group volunteer to maintain the garden during the growing months. Annex – Remodel and develop the new building to further God's kingdom at WRCC.

What are his hobbies
Cooking – BBQ, Italian dishes and baking breads; and raising bonsai trees

What is his secret ambition
"To be able to sing worship songs without offending anyone within hearing distance from me."

Past church life
Raised in the Catholic church and was a former Elder at his church in California.

What is your best advice to aspiring pastors
"Keep your priorities straight – God is first, then your spouse, then your family and then your ministry. You only get one chance to raise your children; they will grow up with or without you there."