David M. Paraska Obituary (1943 - 2021)

David M. Paraska, 77, of Butler, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 8, 2021 at the Butler Memorial Hospital. The family would like to thank the ICU doctors and nurses for their care of Dave after emergency heart surgery. Dave was born in Butler to the late Michael Carl Paraska and the late Helen Olga Walsh Paraska. Dave was the owner of Paraska Construction. He designed and built over 400 custom homes and businesses in the Butler area. He started building in 1958 with his father M. C. Paraska, then took over the business in 1971 after the death of his father. In the 1990's, he partnered with his son, Steve Paraska, until his retirement. His son, Steve, continues as the third generation of Paraska Builders. Dave loved flying private small planes; he soloed when he was sixteen, and acquired his commercial license, initially starting with United Airlines, until his desire to continue the family business called him to follow his heart which was in Butler designing homes. He was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association for over 50 years. In his retirement, he enjoyed simulated flying and building puzzles. Dave graduated from Butler High School in 1960, and Youngstown State University in 1966. Dave attended Community Alliance Church. Dave started his day reading the Bible, doing devotions and praying; he was a man of faith. Dave is survived by his soul mate, of 57 years, Patricia Herold Paraska. They met in grade school and were high school sweethearts. Dave is also survived by one daughter, Marcia Lynn (Matthew) Fischer of Butler; one son, Steven Michael Paraska of Butler. David's pride and joy were his four grandchildren: Zachary Fischer, Jaycob Paraska, Zoe Fischer and Henry Paraska, all of whom called him "Grandfather". He is survived by one sister, Judy Mortimer; and numerous sister and brother in laws, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Carl Paraska. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 16th, 2:00PM at Community Alliance Church with Rev. Dennis Krajacic officiating. Arrangements are being entrusted to Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, Inc., 124 East North Street, Butler, PA 16001. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Habitat for Humanity at Habitat.org, Fishbone Ministries, 437 Shore Street, Butler, PA 16001 or Mission Aviation Fellowship at giveMAF.org.