Member Profile: Mary & Gary Siwierka

Mary and Gary Siwierka became Washington Avenue Christian Church’s newest members on April 17, Easter Sunday. Mary said that she and Gary had been searching for a new worship experience for several years.

The couple became acquainted with WACC through Pastor Nathan, a fellow Rotarian with Mary. The Siwierkas said the first thing they noticed was how welcoming is everyone here. They mentioned that the people of this congregation seem very genuine and share a real sense of community. Gary was particularly touched by your outpouring of sympathy when his mother passed. They also shared that your written notes and birthday greetings have been a new and welcome experience. When asked about their favorite WACC memory, Mary replied that she was totally moved by her first Christmas Eve service here.

Gary and Mary are lifelong Elyria residents. A retiree of the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department and the Elyria Wastewater Plant, Gary now volunteers at Elyria Hospitality Center. He is also a Navy veteran of the Vietnam War. Mary worked for 12 years at the Cleveland Clinic and over 35 years in municipal government. She is currently employed part-time as Human Resources Director for the City of Avon Lake.

Mary and Gary’s fathers both were firefighters and Mary’s brother (Joe Pronesti) is Elyria’s Fire Chief.

The Siwierkas have been married almost 44 years and have one son, Evan, who “has the kindest heart we know.” Another beloved family member is Sadie, a pooch they adopted from the Animal Protective League.

Gary and Mary love to travel and have been on 14 cruises, with their favorite being a 2013 trip to Alaska. Mary loves to sew and makes pillowcases for the youth at Cleveland Christian Home. Gary’s special talent is music trivia; according to Mary, nobody can stump him!

We have enjoyed Mary and Gary’s presence since they first began worshiping with us, and we are now delighted to welcome them as official members of WACC. Be sure to say, “Hello!” the next time you see them!

This article is the first of a monthly feature from our Church Life & Growth Committee.

Thank you, Jane Hutson and Brenda Keenan, for heading up this initiative.