(February 17, 1817-May 29, 1904)

James C. Simonds died Sunday, aged 87 years. The funeral services will be held at his late residence, No. 33 LaGrave street, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock.

Mr. Simonds was born in Norwood, St. Lawrence county, N.Y., February 17, 1817. He was among the early settlers of this city, coming here in 1844, and purchasing his residence property in 1847. Working as a millwright, he constructed many of the early sawmills in this district, among others the first of such mills in the Grand River valley. He afterwards operated a machine shop in Waterloo street (Now Market street), continuously for 37 years. Mr. Simonds retired from active business about 11 years ago.

He leaves two children, Frank A. Simonds of this city, and Mrs. Jacob Klaasse (sp?) of Warren, Ill. He was a member of the Masonic order, and also of the Old Settlers’ association.

(Original source unknown; obituary provided by Peggy Wallis. James Simonds moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan from Norwood).