Mike Creeden: A Twofold Education
By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter
FREMONT — During his college years, when Mike Creeden wasn’t studying for his classes, he could often be found working on a rooftop. What he didn’t realize was that both activities were preparing him for his future career. “While earning my degree in business administration, I worked for my uncle’s roofing business on the side,” he remembers. “After I finished college, my uncle asked me to run his company for him. It was the best opportunity I had at the time, and between my college degree and my roofing experience, I was qualified for the job, so I took it.”
Five years later, in 1975, Mike decided it was time to strike out on his own and founded Marco Roofing. Today, after more than four decades in business, Mike says his favorite part of his job is the customer interaction. “I enjoy meeting new people and working with them to achieve their goals. It’s very satisfying to see my clients happy at the end of their jobs.”
A resident of Pleasanton (where he lives with his wife, Lynette), Mike spends his time outside of work on a variety of active pastimes. “I have a Harley-Davidson that I ride all over the western United States,” he details. “I also play golf regularly and enjoy working in my garden.” When he’s not engaged in one of his personal hobbies, Mike enjoys spending time with family. “Lynette and I have two children and six grandchildren, so family is a big part of our lives.”
After nearly a half-century in the roofing business, Mike reflects on the core value of his career. “To me, being a roofer is primarily an opportunity to help people,” he affirms. “The same goes for any job in the service industry. It doesn’t matter if you’re a plumber, an electrician or a swimming pool technician—at the end of the day, the goal is to help someone in need. That’s why I’ve always put my clients first and made a priority of meeting their needs.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Mike says he’d spend more time on his hobbies…and maybe add a few more. “I would play more golf, ride my Harley more often and do some more traveling. I’d also probably try my hand at some new things. For instance, I’d like to get better at cooking.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Peru. I’ve always wanted to see Machu Picchu.
Q: What’s your favorite book?
A: “The Light and the Glory” by Peter Marshall.
Q: What kinds of music do you like?
A: Country and jazz.
Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Chocolate chip cookies.
Q: What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
A: When I turned 50, my wife surprised me with a brand-new Harley-Davidson. It was the biggest shock ever!
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