Calvin Paul Longacre

Calvin Paul Longacre

Calvin Paul Longacre was born to a Pennsylvania Dutch family in Reading in 1930. He joined the Navy and served as a frigate’s signalman during the Korean War. After four years of service, he retired as a Petty Officer, First Class. He met his wife, Betty, on a blind date to a dance on a military base where he was stationed. They would go on to enjoy 57 years of marriage. After his military service, he attended the University of Maryland and obtained a B.S. in Marketing in 1960.

After moving to Ft. Lauderdale, Calvin met his neighbors Bill and Connie Higerd, whom he credited with leading him to the Lord and introducing him to Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (CRPC).

He worked in the advertising/marketing field for over 40 years. He received numerous accolades both as the Vice President of the South Florida Marketing Association and as National Chairman of the American Advertising Federation. His lifetime of civic and charity involvements included contributions to the Salvation Army, United Way, and the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.

He faithfully served both CRPC and New Presbyterian Church in many leadership roles, including deacon, elder, Sunday school teacher and superintendent, Keenagers/SonShiners ministry and several committees.

This faithful, godly servant with an infectious laugh is survived by his wife, Betty; three children: Christy (husband, Ken), Steve (wife, Sally), and Brian (wife, Karen); and 7 grandchildren: Rachel (husband, Daniel), Matthew, Courtney (husband, Jesse), Jo’El, Devan, Caleb, and Jessi. Nothing brought him more joy than the legacy of faith that is carried on by his family.

Arrangements under the direction of Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.