Obituary for Ellen Sue “Susie” Simon-Visser

After a five and a half year health journey, on August 18, 2026, Ellen Sue “Susie” Simon-Visser, of Rockford, MI, was welcomed into the arms of her loving Savior at 76 years old. Susie was born on January 16, 1950 in Portland, Michigan to Marian VanValkenburg/Visser (Brokaw) and John W. Visser.

Susie was preceded in death by her loving husband, Albert Simon Jr., her father, John W. Visser, and stepsister, Jody VanValkenburg. She is survived by her children, Suzannah Kristen Wise (Christopher L. Wise), Christopher Andrew Simon (Caryn A. Simon), and grandson, Jamison John Simon; mother, Marian VanValkenburg (Randy VanValkenburg); siblings, Linda D. Sandborn, Catherine A. Hurst (Dennis Hurst), John M. Visser (Cindy Visser); stepbrothers, Lenny VanValkenburg, Rex VanValkenburg and Todd VanValkenburg; and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Susie thrived in the classroom, graduating from Portland High School, earning a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University in education and a master's from Michigan State University in education, including doctoral work through Michigan State University.

Susie was a philanthropist, entrepreneur, educator, and world-traveler. She was involved with numerous charity organizations including ministries in Africa (ForAfrika, JAM, and Jesus Alive Ministries), Prison Ministries, and many others throughout West Michigan. Susie had many entrepreneurial endeavors and enjoyed homeschooling her children as well as teaching in the classroom throughout different seasons of her life.

Susie lived a very full life, striving to honor and glorify her Lord and Savior in every moment. Her daily joys were found in being a grandma, volunteering in local church ministries (prayer groups and kids ministry), and spending treasured time with family and friends. Her faith in Jesus was an integral part of her life. She walked closely with the Lord and was unafraid to share Jesus. She lived by the words of Psalm 34:1, “I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to ForAfrika.org or Jesusalivego.org, in honor of Susie Simon.

We invite family and friends to celebrate Susie’s life on Monday August 24, 2026. This celebration will take place at New Hope Community Church, 6175 Northland Dr NE, Rockford, MI 49341. Visitation will occur before the celebration of life from 9:00am till 11:00am with a service to follow at 11:00am. Susie will be laid to rest privately in the coming days with her husband Al Simon at Greenwood Cemetery in Petoskey, MI.