It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of James August Spinato (Jim, Uncle Jim, Gpa), age 86, of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, on June 8, 2026.
Jim was born on July 18, 1939, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Anthony and Victoria Spinato. He graduated from Marquette University with a degree in Business.
Jim owned and operated the highly successful Midwest-based business Water Works Car Wash, later known as Water Works Auto Spa and Detail Center. The flagship location in Menomonee Falls, WI, opened in the early 1970s, followed by another thriving location in Brookfield, WI. After relocating to Colorado Springs, CO in 1980, Jim focused on expanding his business there. He soon had 3 additional successful locations, which frequently earned local recognition and awards as favorite community car washes. Beyond his car wash businesses, Jim was also a savvy real estate owner and developer in both Wisconsin and Colorado.
Jim lived a full and rewarding life and shared his fun-loving spirit with everyone around him. He was a hard worker who could fix almost anything, always offered thoughtful advice, and was known for his contagious smile and unforgettable sense of humor. He loved sharing stories from his many life experiences and took great pride in his accomplishments. He was a great mentor to many business and personal associates.
An outdoor enthusiast, Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, pickleball, golf, outdoor concerts, gardening, hiking, boating, and skiing, among many other activities. He had numerous accolades in racquetball and pickleball. He coached baseball and softball teams for the car washes for many years. He was also an avid reader of history, with a particular passion for World Wars. Happy hour was one of his favorite traditions, and he never turned down an orange vodka press and a plate of appetizers with his many friends.
Family was at the center of Jim’s life. He treasured the many family reunion vacations spent with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, cousins, his sister, and their extended families. These gatherings created some of his happiest memories and lasting traditions. He loved being surrounded by the people he cared about most and took great joy in watching his family grow through the generations.
Jim is survived by his loving children: Jeffrey Spinato (Chris Spinato), Daniel Spinato, and Kathryn Othrow (Jon Othrow); his former wives, Barbara Spinato and Laurie Spinato; and his stepchildren, Rich Johnson (Barbi Johnson) and Ken Johnson. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Daniel Spinato, James Spinato, Nicole Alward (Kevin Alward), Erin Mee (Paul Mee), Troy Othrow (Morgan Othrow), Zoe Johnson, and Rylee Johnson; 12 treasured great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Victoria Spinato; his sister and brother-in-law, Angeline and Thomas Wolfe; and his beloved grandson, Ryan Othrow.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date.