David E. Simon, the visionary Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President of Simon Property Group, passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 64, after a courageous battle with cancer. His death marks the end of an era for the global retail real estate industry, which he profoundly shaped over more than three decades. Simon was celebrated for transforming a regional family business into the world’s largest and most admired retail real estate company.

Born in 1961, David Simon was immersed in the world of real estate from an early age, as the son of Melvin Simon, co-founder of Melvin Simon & Associates. He pursued a strong educational foundation, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Indiana University in 1983. He further honed his financial acumen by obtaining a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business in 1985.

Simon began his professional career in investment banking, working at prestigious Wall Street firms such as First Boston and Wasserstein Perella & Co. from 1985 to 1990, specializing in mergers and acquisitions. In 1990, he brought his expertise to the family enterprise, joining Melvin Simon & Associates as Chief Financial Officer. His strategic leadership was instrumental in taking Simon Property Group public in 1993 with a nearly $1 billion initial public offering, which was, at the time, the largest real estate stock offering.

Assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer in 1995 and later Chairman in 2007, David Simon spearheaded the company’s remarkable expansion and diversification. Under his guidance, Simon Property Group grew into a global powerhouse, owning or holding interests in more than 250 properties across North America, Europe, and Asia. His tenure was marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to creating premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations.

Simon was a steadfast champion of brick-and-mortar retail, skillfully navigating the industry through significant challenges, including the rise of e-commerce, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He pioneered innovative retail strategies, investing billions in redeveloping and reimagining properties to evolve them into mixed-use, experiential centers. His vision ensured the continued vitality of physical retail spaces, delivering a cumulative total shareholder return exceeding 4,500% since the company’s IPO.

Beyond his professional achievements, David Simon was a devoted family man. He was married to Jacqueline Susan Freed for over 40 years, and together they raised five children and were blessed with seven grandchildren. The Simon family expressed deep gratitude for the global outpouring of support, remembering him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother who poured his heart and soul into building Simon Property Group.