Michael John Paharik

Michael John Paharik, 58, of Lucas, Texas, passed away on March 5, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family, who cherished him deeply. His was a beautiful life filled with purpose, love, laughter, humility, and generosity. Mike lived each day with heart and poured himself into the people and passions that mattered most to him.

Born on February 28, 1967, Mike earned a degree in civil engineering from Villanova University and obtained his professional engineer license (P.E.). He grew up in Holden, Massachusetts, and graduated from Wachusett Regional High School, where his strong sense of responsibility and perseverance took root early and became hallmarks of his character.

Mike spent 30 years at Arcosa, where he was respected for his expertise and leadership. It was through his work that he met his devoted wife, Eva. Together, they built a loving partnership that spanned 28 years. They raised their three daughters, Elena, Alexa, and Morgan in Germantown, Tennessee, before relocating to Texas to be closer to family. After stepping away from his vice president role, Mike semi-retired to a less demanding position and embraced a slower pace of life, cherishing the time he spent with his family.

His daughters were the heart of his world, and their days were filled with laughter, inside jokes and plenty of shopping. A proud “girl-dad,” Mike nurtured the special bond they lovingly called their “Father-Daughter World.” He saw each of his daughters for exactly who they were, encouraging their dreams, respecting their voices, and lifting them with unwavering belief in their potential. He loved them deeply.

Mike was always the first to raise a glass in honor of someone else’s success, delivering toasts that left lasting impressions. Whether it was a milestone moment or a quiet achievement, he celebrated the people around him with heartfelt words, warmth, and genuine pride.

Though he didn’t consider himself a runner or a handyman, Mike ran many charity races with his family, including a marathon and built porch ramps for those in need, dedicating his time to meaningful causes.

Mike was a skilled financial strategist, a keen golfer, and a devoted sports fan. He had an uncanny memory for stats, effortlessly recalling scores and player histories. His passion for the stock market and natural talent for numbers fueled his enthusiasm for trading and analyzing market trends. He could light up a room with his energy, especially when music was playing. With expressive facial gestures, animated movements, and heartfelt singing, his connection to music was uniquely his own. One of the final songs he sang was “My Way,” and true to the lyrics, Mike lived fully, courageously, and with heart on his own terms.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Karen Paharik, who shared 35 loving years together. He is survived by his wife, Eva; daughters Elena, Alexa, and Morgan; stepmother, Dorothy Ungerer; his brother, Mark (Emily); and several step-siblings and many beloved nieces and nephews. Mike also shared a close bond with his extended family, loving his sisters- and brothers-in-law as his own siblings.

Mike’s love, humor, and larger-than-life presence will continue to shine through the stories, laughter, and love shared by those who knew him best. He loved fiercely, often without needing to say a word. “His way” lives on in every person he inspired, celebrated, and loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 29, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Windyke Country Club, 8535 Winchester Rd., Memphis, Tennessee, followed by a lively reception with storytelling in true Mike fashion. Friends and family are warmly invited to raise a glass, share memories, and honor a life lived to the fullest. Guests are invited to dress casually.

Memorial donations may be made in Mike’s honor to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (NETRF), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or through a simple, unexpected act of kindness - a reflection of his generous spirit.