Tanner Simon

Tanner Douglas Simon passed away at the age of 21, in his home, on August 17th, 2021, surrounded by his family, after a 10 month battle with brain cancer.

Tanner was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on July 6th, 2000. He graduated from South Haven High School in 2018 and began pursuing a career in Mechatronics with Benteler Automotive by earning an apprenticeship with the company. Tanner loved his field and was awarded his certification in May of 2021.

It was no surprise Tanner had the success he did in his field; in his childhood years, he spent his free time taking apart and putting back together anything he could get his hands on. This continued into adulthood with building a gaming computer and tinkering with his car, Sapphire. He also loved to spend time playing video games, cooking and eating great food.

Tanner was known by everyone who met him has a simple and selfless person. He found true happiness in spending quality time with his family, his girlfriend of five years, Klaudia, and his close friends.

Tanner is survived by parents Tania and Levi Watkins, Timothy and Valerie Simon; his brother, Jacob Simon; his sister, Hailey Watkins; Grandparents Elizabeth and David Simon, Kathy and Rob Whitmore; and Douglas Houghton; Great Grandmother Mary Thayer; girlfriend, Klaudia Stinson; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tanner took his Glioblastoma diagnosis with an “it is what it is” attitude. He possessed a heroic level of positivity throughout the last 10 months of his life, keeping sprits high with his constant humor. Tanner will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. He had an everlasting effect that is unforgettable, allowing a part of him to live on with each of us.

Tanner’s wishes were to be cremated without a memorial or service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Glioblastoma Research Organization at https://gbmresearch.org/donate-now, or another cancer charity of your choice.

Arrangements were by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Saugatuck Chapel.