Matthew Angelus Spampinato
October 15, 1960 - June 22, 2025
Matthew Angelus Spampinato, beloved husband, father, brother, teacher, and friend, passed away on June 22, 2025, in Denver, Colorado, at the age of 64.
Born on October 15, 1960, Matthew built a life rooted in creativity, compassion, and deep connection. He spent much of his professional life as an educator at Thomas Jefferson High School in Denver, where he inspired generations of students and colleagues alike. As the founder of the school’s Communications Central magnet program, he left a lasting mark on the school community, igniting young minds and fostering curiosity, confidence, and self-expression.
Beyond the classroom, Matthew pursued his passion for music as co-owner of Spampinato Guitars, a family business he proudly ran with his nephew, Mason Shelmire. His love for craftsmanship and sound was just one facet of a life rich with interest and heart. He found joy in hiking the Colorado trails, capturing the world through his camera lens, cooking meals for those he loved, and quietly delighting in the simple charm of ducks—his favorite animal and a source of many smiles.
Matthew is survived by his loving wife, Jenny Spampinato; his cherished daughter and son-in-law, Natalia Spampinato and Lucas Sotirakis; and his siblings: Claudia Haller, Joyce Mahn, Michael Spampinato, Lynn Spampinato, Angie Shelmire and Paula Spampinato. He is remembered fondly by extended family, dear friends, former students, and all whose lives he touched with his humor, warmth, and unwavering generosity.
A celebration of Matthew’s life will be held in the coming months in Denver. Details will be shared with family and friends soon.
A CaringBridge has been created on behalf of Matthew. CaringBridge is a health platform that offers tools to share and document a health journey, simplify care coordination, and connect caregivers with their supportive community.
Please visit Matthew's site often to stay updated and share messages of encouragement and support.
Visit Matthew's CaringBridge
Donations
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Matthew’s memory to the
American Cancer Society
or to simply spend a quiet afternoon doing something he loved—walking in nature, playing music,
or feeding ducks at a nearby pond.