Our Story

Vern grew up in Chicago, the son of a Chicago firefighter. He left high school to join the Navy and after serving his country, he returned to Chicago to marry his high school sweetheart. At that time, he followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Chicago Fire Department where he served for 27 years. Vern retired as a captain who displayed leadership and bravery in his profession.

Because Vern believed in the American Dream, even while working full-time as a firefighter, he pursued various opportunities to provide for his family. With his home on the line, he purchased a car wash in Brookfield, Illinois. Vern believed in the hard working people of this community, a belief that with dedication and the same kind of hard work he could make his dream come true.

Success took years but with time, commitment, and perseverance, he was able to invest in the communities of Streamwood, Schaumburg, Naperville, Downers Grove and the Midway area of Chicago. Through his businesses, Vern was able to offer many others opportunities to provide a better life for their families too.

After 27 years, Captain Vern retired from the fire department hoping to spend some well-deserved time with his grandchildren when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He lost this battle to the disease six months later.

The spirit of Vern is embodied in the Spirit of America Car Washes. Like many family owned and operated businesses, Spirit of America is looking for the communities they’ve supported for so many years to help support them. Thank you for being a part of our community.