I first met Mike many years ago. I was introduced to him by Gene Trimble when Gene worked at the Fiesta Rancho. Mike had purchased some bags of chips from an auctioneer he knew in California.
The bags contained very rare pieces such as the Cotton Club $5.00 inlay. I purchased a bag from Mike and left. A few days later Gene stopped at the house and wanted to know if I was interested in any additional pieces he had from the bag he purchased from Mike. Such was my introduction to Mike Spinetti many, many years ago. Every convention I attended I would take pictures of the dealers and fellow collectors. I always got a picture of Mike and Ann and spent a few minutes shooting the bull. Ann was an excellent poker player and Mike ALWAYS had a story to tell me. Mike will be missed by me and all those who enjoyed his smiling face and GREAT personality. Rest in Peace my friend.
Jim Perlowski