Charles J. Simons February 19, 1918 - June 28, 2021
Islamorada, Charles John Simons, Sr
of Islamorada, FL died on June 28, 2021 at the age of 103 after a life he often referred to as “one hell of a ride.”
Born February 19, 1918 in the Bronx, NY to Charles and Harriet “Hattie” (née Stern), Charlie was a resident of FL for 80 years who spent more than 40 summers enjoying the green mountains of Woodstock, VT. He attended P.S. 44, graduated from Dewitt Clinton High School in 1935, Fordham University in 1938, and Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program in 1967.
Charlie was a veteran of WWII. He was drafted before the war and was due to be honorably discharged when Pearl Harbor was bombed. He served in Europe and North Africa and served for many years after the war in the Army Reserves, retiring as a Colonel.
Beloved father of Jim, Sue Slovich (Mike) and the late Charles “Skip,” Jr. (Joan). Also preceded in death by his devoted wife of 63 years and the love of his life, Mary (née Feuger). Adored grandfather of Stephanie Neal (David), Colin (Demi), Sarah (Patrick Bakaj), Amanda Slovich (Keith Holecek) and Michael Slovich III. Cherished great grandfather of Teddi, Connor
and Tyler. Dearest Uncle Charlie to many nieces, nephews and numerous family friends’ children.
Charlie worked for Eastern Airlines for 40 years, beginning as an auditor in their accounting department in 1940 and retiring in 1980 as Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman of the Board. On the occasion of his 100th birthday, he was made an honorary member of the Eastern Airlines Retired Pilots Association.
Serving on the boards of many companies (and becoming acting CEO of a few for a time) including, the Air Transport Association of America, America West Airlines, Bank of Commerce, Bessemer Trust, Eastern Air Lines, Executive Sports, General Development, Greenwich Air Services, GW Plastics, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Med Waste, Preferred Care Partners, Renex Corporation, Royce Laboratories, South African Airlines, Southeast Bank, Space Industries, Twin Fair, Wackenhut Security, Wometco Enterprises, and WorkWear, Charlie remained active in business until he was 102.
Charlie’s two favorite places were Woodstock, VT where he spent 40 summers, and the Florida Keys, where he spent as much time as he could for more than 80 years. Being out fishing with friends was his favorite pastime.
A funeral mass and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at San Pedro Catholic Church 89500 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33070. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Charlie’s memory.