Ishpeming – Charles Clayton "Chuck" Simons, age 87, passed away on February 26, 2021 at his home in Ishpeming surrounded by his family.

Chuck was born at home in Ishpeming on May 27 ^th , 1933 to Inez (Holmgren) and Clayton Simons. He graduated from Ishpeming high school in 1951. He worked briefly at CCI before attending Michigan Technological University where he graduated with a degree in metallurgical engineering in 1957. He then worked for Batelle Memorial Institute and worked in their research division and their scientific advancement division until 1973. He returned to Ishpeming in 1973 to take over the family business, Simons Brothers Wholesalers. He retired in 2000. Chuck was married in 1953 to his high school sweetheart Mary Lou Racine, and they had two children.

Chuck was a member of the Ishpeming Masonic Lodge #101, Scottish Rite Valley of Marquette and the Ahmed Shriners, where he served a Potentate in 1994. He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Ishpeming, served on the Ishpeming Downtown Development Authority and was an Ishpeming School Board Member for 16 years.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mary Lou, and his children Claudette (Gary Evans) DesJardins and Charles (Julie) Simons, both of Ishpeming, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Charlotte Asikainen, and his life-long best friend John Juntti.

No public services will be held. The Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.