The Industry Loses a Legend

We are saddened to announce the passing of Jim Ginnaty, an accomplished custodial professional who maintained a passion for improving the professionalism of the cleaning industry, its workers and the processes used within it, throughout his career.

Jim got his start in the cleaning industry after working as the Operations and Maintenance Specialist for the SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC), an organization serving 18 native communities in southeast Alaska. Working first as a Facility Manager II and then as an Environmental Services Coordinator for SEARHC, he was responsible for managing and overseeing the maintenance, housekeeping and safety within remote native healthcare clinics and administrative buildings within the SEARHC consortium. For Jim, cleaning work was more than just swinging a mop—it was a way to bring education, acknowledgement and pride to his janitors and his community.

Jim was an early advocate for the (OS1) Cleaning System and later went on to become a Training Manager and Coordinator at the University of Michigan as they implemented the (OS1) team cleaning system. Most recently, he was responsible for leading the Simon Institute’s Standards Writing Committee in developing ANSI-Standards for the janitorial and custodial services industry.

Jim’s lust for life was infectious. He continuously sought enrichment and experience. He never backed down from a good debate, fearlessly fought for what was right and treated everyone with compassion. Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather and regularly shared in the joys of his family. He was also a tireless mentor, friend and steward of the industry, resolute in his commitment to improve the way buildings are cleaned.

Jim’s passing leaves a huge void in our industry and he will be terribly missed by everyone within the Simon Institute family. On behalf of John, Renae, Lisa, Ben and so many others within the Simon Institute family, please join us in keeping Shan, the Ginnaty children and grandchildren in our prayers, deepest thoughts and warmest hearts.