Simon Zornes, age 55, of Bagley, MN, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Simon Dean Zornes was born on April 30, 1970, to Charles Sr. and Suzanne (Oppegard) Zornes. He was given his Ojibwe name Genaawandang Ishkodekan, meaning "Keeper of the Fire." He attended Flandreau Indian School and graduated in 1989. After high school, Simon spent time traveling and visiting friends before attending college in Moorhead, where he earned a degree in agriculture in the early 1990s.

In his younger years, Simon was devoted to raising his blended family. He was married in 2000 to Carol Brook in Las Vegas and the couple later separated. Throughout his life, Simon held a variety of jobs, including work at Shooting Star Casino, with White Earth Land Recovery, with a traveling carnival, and as a firefighter. His favorite work, however, was anything that allowed him to be outdoors. He especially enjoyed wild ricing and collecting maple syrup, proudly carrying on the traditions of his ancestors and sharing that knowledge with younger generations. He worked at the rice mill at Mahkonce with his uncle Sunfish and Bob Shimek for many years.

Simon was a talented artist whose work can be found throughout northern Minnesota, and he was featured in articles and documentaries highlighting his creativity. He created many beautiful rock and wood carvings. He hosted the coolest booth at the farmers market, showcasing his many passions, and he loved to share his talents with friends and family. He also enjoyed canning, and playing guitar and singing while enjoying the sunset. Simon will be remembered for his laid-back, friendly nature, as well as his deep knowledge and passion for sharing it with others.

Simon is survived by his mother, Suzanne Zornes; children: Ellie Mae (Jose) Ramirez, Marissa (Anthony John Strong) Whirlwindsoldier, Miranda Whirlwindsoldier, Travis Walker, Jericho Zornes, Eon Zornes, and Marcus Lagarde; two grandchildren, Siara Sargent and Jose Ramirez Jr.; siblings: Charles Zornes Jr., Tracy Zornes, Lisa (Sam Wadena) Zornes, Samantha (Mike Ray Littlewolf) Zornes, and Ann Zornes; two grandpups, Wuppy and Peewee Baby; mothers of his children: Tammy Peterson, Christine Thauvin Colin, Angela Whirlwindsoldier, Zelda "Bee" Sargent, and Carol Brook; and many extended family. Simon was preceded in death by his grandparents; father, Charles Zornes Sr., son, Peyton Zornes; grandson, Steven Warren; and many special aunts and uncles.

Funeral Services will be held at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex, Naytahwaush,    MN, on Thursday April 23, 2026, at 1:00 pm. All night wake services will begin on      Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 5:00 pm with a prayer service at 7:00 pm and continue until the time of the funeral on Thursday.