Donald Long OBITUARY
Donald Long was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, father-in-law, and friend. He was born on August 16, 1930, in a small township of Graceton, Minnesota, just a stone's throw away from the Canadian border, where he lived until age 11. Then he moved with his parents and brother to Ohio for one year, next onto Minneapolis to finish his school years becoming certified as an Aircraft and Mechanics Engineer. He joined the Air Force as a Draftsmen, Cartoonist, and Graphic Artist, and was promoted to Staff/Sargent. His tour of duty took him to Celle, Germany; Neubiberg Air Force Base during the Berlin Air Lift. His life took an unexpected turn when he met Margot, soon to be his wife for 63 years, sadly previously deceased. Upon seeing her he knew 'She was the one he would spend his life with'. In those 63 years 3 daughters Susan, Sandra, and Marlene, 8 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren would come from that union. Donald loved San Jose, especially the weather. He retired after 32 years, from FMC, as a Project Manager and Systems Integrator for several weapon systems. One highlight there was that he shared in a patent for a Dual Ammunition Transfer Mechanism. Before and in his retirement, he enjoyed oil painting, playing the harmonica, making instruments including, mandolins and guitars of which he sold several. He and daughter Sandra played mandolins with the Aurora Mandolin Orchestra. He also stayed busy sculpting and creating inventive/clever devices to make certain tasks easier or more convenient in his home. One of note; is his Oreo Cookie dispenser. He loved his Oreo Cookies.
After Donald became a widow, he regularly played Golf with Daughters Marlene and Susan. He also became a regular with the Willow Glen Methodist Church Bridge group. The Bridge folks became very dear Friends. Donald's witty sense of humor, which would surprise you, at times, created many laughing moments for many. He will be truly missed by many.
A 'Celebration of Life for Donald A. Long' will be held on October 26, 2024 at the Willow Glen Methodist Church located at the corner of Newport and Minnesota Avenues, San Jose, California, at 11 am, in the Wesley Room.
In lieu of flowers a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children, would be greatly appreciated.
