INDIANA – Simon Property Group announced Monday the passing of its President and CEO, David Simon. The Indianapolis-based real estate giant confirmed that Simon died Sunday following a battle with cancer. He was 64 years old.
David Simon was a titan in the global real estate industry, credited with transforming his family’s enterprise into the largest retail real estate company in the world.
In a statement released Monday, the Simon family remembered David as a man whose dedication to his professional work was matched only by his devotion to his family.
“Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother poured his heart and soul into building Simon Property Group,” the family stated. “He was most proud of his family, his wife of over 40 years, Jackie, and their five children… and 7 grandchildren. We ask for privacy as we grieve our great loss.”
Herb Simon and Pacers Sports & Entertainment also issued a heartfelt tribute to the late leader:
“My family and I are deeply saddened by my nephew David’s passing,” said Herb Simon. “I was proud to see him grow into an exceptional and transformative leader whose vision, dedication and discipline helped shape Simon Property Group… His impact on our family, our community and the real estate industry will be felt for generations to come.”
David Simon’s path to the top of the real estate world was marked by academic excellence and early professional success. A graduate of the Indiana University Kelley School of Business and Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business, he initially built a career as an investment banker specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
In 1995, at the age of 33, he was named CEO of Simon Property Group, becoming one of the youngest CEOs of a major publicly traded company in America. Under his three-decade tenure, the company’s footprint expanded exponentially. At the time of his passing, the group held interests in more than 250 properties comprising over 200 million square feet across North America, Europe, and Asia.
To ensure leadership continuity, the Simon Property Group Board of Directors has announced several key appointments. Eli Simon has been named the new President and CEO, effective immediately. He will also continue his roles as Chief Operating Officer and Director. Larry Glasscock has been appointed to serve as Non-Executive Chairman of the board.
The Simon family has indicated that details regarding memorial services will be released at a later date.
His passing marks a significant loss for the Indiana business community and the global retail landscape he helped redefine.
