Simeon of Verkhoturye was a 17th-century Russian Orthodox monk who lived a life of asceticism and simplicity. Born into a noble boyar family in European Russia, he moved to the Ural Mountains following the deaths of his parents. Settling near the village of Merkushino, he lived as a humble laborer, fishing during the summer and sewing coats for local peasants during the winter. He is recognized as the patron saint of the Ural region and is venerated for his righteousness and unselfishness.