Charles Sims

A steady and dependable presence in the lives of all who knew him, Charles Sims truly understood the secret to a life well lived. He was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and he was always there when a loved one needed him. There was nothing that was of greater importance to Charles than his friends and family. His teasing sense of humor and love for adventure brought a spark of life to every room he walked into. Although he was taken far too soon, Charles will be forever loved and remembered by those who knew him best.

The early 1960s were some of the most exciting years to be an American. The young JFK was elected president, and there was a huge surge in pop culture, seeing the emergence of rock and roll, iconic dances, and bold new fashion trends. During this influential time, William and Alma (White) Sims of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were eagerly expecting the arrival of their third child. It was on April 25, 1963, that Charles William was born and welcomed into the world by his overjoyed parents and siblings.

Growing up, Charles enjoyed a happy and full childhood. He was raised in the family home on Ferndale alongside his three sisters, Virginia, Christina, and Janice. Charles’ father, William, worked in metal fabrication, and his mother, Alma, owned and ran Ma’s Kitchen, a restaurant on Leonard and Fuller in Grand Rapids. As a young boy, Charles was known to get into his fair share of mischief. He loved riding minibikes, shooting his BB gun, and teasing his sisters, and he had fond memories of fishing around Pierson, Michigan.

Charles attended local Grandville public schools. In his teenage years, he worked a paper route and helped his mother out at the restaurant. Charles was also an active member of the Young Marines. He had a passion for adventure from a young age, and he ended up hitchhiking to California, as well as traveling as a “Carnie” for two years. Charles met and married Kelly Gibbs, and though that marriage would end after seven years, the two remained good friends.

Over the years, Charles built a successful career in trucking. He spent nearly twenty years driving and dispatching cabs in Grand Rapids. Charles enjoyed his 18 years of long haul trucking. Even though it took him away from home for weeks at a time, he got to drive all around the country, including Texas, Washington, Oregon, and Florida. Charles was proud of his spotless driving record, and he was always early to his pick-ups and deliveries. Most recently, he worked at RM Trucking Inc.

It was Charles’ career in trucking that often led him to Casey’s, a 24 hour diner where he would meet the remarkable woman who would soon become his wife. Her name was Rebecca Machuta, and the two bonded over their love for Casey’s Diner. Rebecca had actually been friends with Charles’ parents for several years through Ma’s Kitchen. Their relationship flourished as they fell deeply in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Charles and Rebecca were married in an intimate ceremony at Anointed Ministries Church on May 2, 2000.

To stay busy in his free time, Charles had many hobbies that he enjoyed to pursue. He liked shooting and had an extensive gun collection. Charles had a soft spot for animals of all kinds, and he took excellent care of his beloved dogs, Sassy, Rocky, and Junior. He was the best uncle to his nieces and nephews, and he would always let the kids climb all over him. Charles was very family oriented and was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones.

When reflecting on the overflowing life of Charles Sims, it is easy to see both his unwavering loyalty and his unconditional love for his family. He was always willing to go above and beyond to care for those around him, and no matter how far his travels took him, he always made sure to hold his loved ones close. A devoted son, brother, uncle, and husband, Charles found endless joy in spending time with his family. His insatiable zest for life and genuine heart for service allowed him to impact the lives of countless others for the better. Though he will be dearly missed, Charles leaves behind a priceless legacy that his loved ones will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

Charles William Sims, age 61, passed away at his home April 8, 2025 with his loving wife by his side. Charles was born in Grand Rapids April 25, 1963 to the late William and Alma (White) Sims. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Virginia Ambler and Janice Ellsworth. Charles was a long haul truck driver for the last 18 years and currently working for RM Trucking. He will be lovingly remembered as a loving husband, son, brother and uncle. On May 2, 2000 Charles married Rebecca Machuta, she survives along with his sister, Christina (Juan) Trotter; sister-in-law, Vickie (Calvin) Hurrel; brother-in-law, Rick (Peggy) Machuta; special aunt, Glenda Tower; and several special nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes, Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Friends may visit with family beginning at 10 AM. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.