LONG, Charles William (Bill) 61, of Clearwater, passed away January 6, 2017 after a brief illness and hospitalization. Bill was born July 19, 1955 in Leon, IA to Harris E. “Zip” Long (founder of The Long Center) and Eleanor (Rademaker) Long. Bill’s family moved to Clearwater in 1956 where he grew up on Clearwater Beach. He loved fishing and boating, even going to school by boat to Northward Elementary. He attended Admiral Farragut Academy, Clearwater High School, and Daytona Beach Community College. He had a passion for flying and began his career with Simmons, then Air Wisconsin, Aspen Air, United Express, and American Eagle. He was a proud member of ALPA for 25 years and volunteered his time at the Long Center. Bill is survived by his sister, Judy (Long) Schafers; his niece, Kallie J. Schafers; his uncle, Dale D. and wife Ann Rademaker; half-sister, Peggee Ann (Long) Cuson and husband Chuck; and several cousins. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 14, 2017 from 4-6 pm at Sylvan Abbey Palm Harbor Chapel 2550 Highlands Blvd. N., Palm Harbor, FL 34684. Memorial donations may be made to The Long Center 1501 N Belcher Rd., Clearwater, FL 33765.
