Obituary of George Michael Simons

          Mike passed from this life on December 11, 2024 at age 75, after an extended illness.  George Michael Simons was born on April 2, 1949 to George and Eleanor Simons in MInneapolis where he lived his entire life.   Mike graduated from Roosevelt High School, where he was on the wrestling team, and Augsburg College.

          Mike met the love of this life in 1967,  he and Grace were married in 1970 and were blessed with three children.   Mike started his career at the YMCA in Minneapolis.  Later

he was employed for forty years by Glenwood water company in filtration and customer service.

       Mike dedicated his life to volunteer work and in service to others.  He spent many years officiating youth sports and adult softball to provide safe and fun games to many.    Mike was active in the Hiawatha Y’s Men service club, and with the Y’ Guides and Y’ Princesses programs with his children.   He was active at Bethel Lutheran Church in the confirmation program and on the church council.  Mike served many years on BNA [Bancroft Neighborhood Association]  in Minneapolis and the LID [lake improvement district board] at the lake near Brainerd.  He loved being busy and helping others while always ready with a pun or joke and a witty laugh. 

        For pleasure, he enjoyed water activities at the cabin and traveling.  Mike and Grace took several cruises from ports in the US and Europe.  Camping  and road trips with the whole family were the most fun.  Mike learned lefse making from his mother.  They made many rounds of lefse laughing together and sharing them with many.

       Mike was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matthew,  his parents and his in-laws, Art and Elaine Butler.  He is survived by Grace, his wife of 54 years;  his two daughters, Katie [Dennis] and Kellie [Clint] Riley;  and four precious grandchildren, Colby, Kami, Connor and Carson.   He is also survived by sisters,  Judy Bolan, Jane (Gary) Hopping, Linda (Tom) Herzog and Luci Black,  many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

          A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Saturday,  January 4, 2025 at Bethel Lutheran church, 4120 17th Ave South, Minneapolis, MN.  Visitation at 2 PM, service at 3 PM, followed by lunch and time to share memories.