Obituary: David John Patrick Sharkey Pariso

David John Patrick Sharkey Pariso** passed away April 5, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Although he had pancreatic cancer, he refused to let that defeat or define him. Other people may have shied away from that diagnosis, but not him. He defied it.  He was adamant that talk about cancer not be silent, and he would go into treatment with his head up and his spirit proud while welcoming other chemotherapy patients, by happily exclaiming, “Hello, Fellow Cancer Patients!”

He loved sports and his family and would often squire his baby sister, Tommi, around Las Vegas so that she could always watch her beloved Georgia Bulldogs while visiting.

David enjoyed telling stories about his life, and whenever he spoke, he always engaged an audience. There was nothing sacred. And always much to laugh about. He never met a stranger.

David was extremely devoted to his daughter, Brandy Michelle, a.k.a, “Moose.”  When he wasn’t teaching her the Marine Corps hymn from his days as a Marine, he was proud to show her off in the pressrooms where he worked. In fact, there would be signs in the pressroom when Brandy Michelle made the honor roll or when she wrote her first (and only) play, Trouble in Hawaii.  

                         

To that end, he expects her to keep up the integrity of their fantasy football team, Team MooseDaddy. He understands that although it will be tough, she must carry on. And to not petition the NFL because she disagrees with a change in the rules.  

David is preceded into death by his parents; Luke Sharkey III, Dona White; wife and mother of his children, Joan Kelley Pariso, infant daughters, Jennifer and Mary; and wife, Georgia Carol Pariso.

He is survived by his daughter, Brandy Michelle Pariso  Olson (Jon); his beloved sister, Tommi Massengale (Matt); brothers Luke Sharkey II (Emily), Kevin Gerald Sharkey (Candy) and sister, Kathleen Sharkey Perry.

He is also survived by his dear friend and caregiver, Bonnie Mathews; Carol’s daughter, Angela Pena; Brandy Michelle’s stepmother, Kelly Beatty-Farrell; as well of amazing crew of beloved family and friends. 

A Celebration of Life to follow as decided by the family. 

** Will be formally posted to newspapers as decided by the family