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Obituary for Marissa Leigh Parazak
Marissa Leigh was born in Evansville, IN on May 14, 1979, to John and Cyndi Parazak. She grew up as the oldest of three, followed by her brother Christopher Parazak and her sister Stephanie Parazak Eberle (Christian). Marissa became a mom to the brightest light and greatest joy in her life, Colton Christopher, in 1996. In addition, she leaves behind her nieces and nephews, Natalie, John and Bennett Parazak and Josephine and Emilia Eberle. No conversation went by that she did not update a friend on the recent antics or shared photos of her much-loved nieces and nephews who knew her as “Aunt Merci.”
Marissa is preceded in death by her Grandparents Robert and Dorothy Nesbit, Grandparents John and Rose Parazak, and Uncle and Godfather John “Jack” Thelen. Marissa leaves behind her Aunt and Godmother, Deborah Thelen, Aunt and Uncle Karen and Dan Spalding, Aunt and Uncle Kim and Gary Martin, and her Uncle Dennis Parazak. She is also survived by her cousins who all have ready stories of fun times growing up together in the pool at Grandma and Grandpa Nesbit’s and on the infamous “Scuttlebutt Tour with Gramps”. Cousins include: John Robert Thelen, Jessica Thelen, Jennifer (Pat) Barton; Joel (Megan) Spalding, Kara Jean Spalding; Erik (Claire) Martin, Bryan (Shelly) Martin, Melissa (Andrew) Willey; and Eric Parazak; as well as all of their children who were so dear to Marissa as well.
As a teenager, Marissa was involved in the youth group at Light of the World Catholic Church. After becoming a parent, she assumed a leadership role, sharing her experiences growing up and mentoring younger members. Having graduated from Chatfield High School, Marissa continued her education at Arapahoe Community College and became an EMT. She further continued schooling at CSU Fort Collins with Colton in tow. Later, her diagnosis with a chronic neurological illness necessitated a change in direction, which led her to more flexible hours. Ultimately, she became dedicated to caregiving and was beloved by all of her patients as her empathic heart shone through in her work.
Marissa’s world revolved first around Colton. Peoples Kenpo Karate Association, his karate dojo, was truly home to them. She will be greatly missed by the PKKA family. Marissa developed a large social circle with parents of Colton’s friends, his high school lacrosse team and in the neighborhood where she raised him. Friends who have shared memories in the recent days consistently mention Marissa’s determination in the face of many challenges, her easy smile, and her warm, genuine nature. Some friends have specifically and kindly asked if there is a way to contribute to assist Colton and family during this unexpectedly difficult time.
A GoFundMe page was borne from this thoughtful intention. It can be accessed at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-unexpected-expenses-for-colton. Already, we have been blessed with many kind words, thoughts, and deeds, and above all appreciate your prayers.