Ronald Dean Long

Ronald Dean Long was born on December 3rd, 1945 in Indianapolis, Indiana. He entered into his heavenly home on November 15th, 2022 holding the hand of his youngest son. Ron was the champion of a number of important causes and worked tirelessly for peoples God given rights. From working as chairman of the UAW Retirees, to being President of Indiana Alliance for Retired Persons, a member of Statewide Labor Roundtable, and being an active member of the Community Action Program. He constantly worked to be sure anyone needing help, received it. He was also very active in the Speedway Methodist Church, having been the President of the SUMC Methodist Men, teaching Sunday School, and helping in the church audio/visual department. Both Ron and Chris were very involved in the scouting program with Boy Scouts of America. As a young man, he was awarded the highest honor of becoming an Eagle Scout. He was a proud member of the United States Marine Corp, serving in Viet Nam from 1966 to 1968 before being wounded. He and Chris were involved with Indy Honor flights. He served as a Guardian on Flight #4 and as a participant on Flight #34 with his Marine grandson Nicholas as his Guardian. In his final days he was cared for at the Indianapolis VA with great care and respect. His sense of humor and quick wit was something we all loved. Dad jokes were a part of his routine and were often met with a groan and a giggle. Ron is survived by his wife of 54 years, Chris, whom he met at Great Lakes Naval Hospital in 1967. Ron had been injured in Viet Nam and was recuperating at the hospital there. The American Legion in Fox Lake would bring the soldiers out to the lake and Chris would give boat rides and provided the dinner music. It was there that they met and their lifelong love story began. Survived by his sons Richard (Kathy) and Andrew (Devon). Also survived by grandchildren Taylor Mink (Justin), Nick, Justin, Jackson, Riley, Samantha, Cooper, and Gryffin. Also three great-grandchildren, Memphis, Maverick and Presley. Ron will also be missed by his brothers David (Janet) and Tim (Janie) and many nieces, nephews and family members. Ron was preceded in death by his infant son Michael, his parents Robert and Edna, brother Gary and sister Joanna. The celebration of Ron’s life including military honors, will be held at Speedway United Methodist Church, 5065 W 16th, Indianapolis, IN on November 21st, 2022. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM with a service at 4:00 PM EST. For those not able to attend in person, please join the service on the internet by going to Facebook and finding the page for Speedway United Methodist Church or by using the link on the church website at www.speedway-umc.org/. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Ron’s memory to your favorite charity. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.familyfuneralcareindy.com for the Long family.