Thomas Edward Long (you probably knew him as “Tom,” “Tommy,” “Tom’s Handii,” “Dad,” or “Papa”), born December 8, 1949, entered eternal life on June 20, 2018. His spirit is carried on by his children, grandchildren, sister, extended family, and many friends from every walk of life.
We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Tom during his 68 years, among them: You won’t know everything in life until age 35, or maybe 70, or maybe 95. Be kind to others. Put down the toilet seat when you’re done; actually, keep a spare toilet – you’ll never know when you’ll need it. Keep your promises. Get up early to get the most of each day. Spend quality time with the family including an annual ‘Mancation’ with Bryan and Paul. Check the stock market every day. Fishing is the best way to think—even better in Alaska. Save those plastic containers for later and reuse your water bottles. Clean up after yourself. Dozing off in the recliner is just praying. Shave with the grain. Bring a sugar free pie for Thanksgiving. Brush your teeth but even then Rochell or Drue will fix them. A refrigerator cardboard box makes a cool house for kids. Plant a garden. Finally – get up and dance.
He is survived by his family whose photos he would share with any friends who came by the house: sister Phyllis, son Bryan (partner Robert); son Paul (wife Stephanie, children Parker and Paxton); Drew (wife Amy, children Haley and Juliet); Rochell; and friends too numerous to list, but not forgotten. He’s proud of all of them – the strong people they’ve become, who they’ve helped, the character each of them has, and the love each of them shows others.
Tom is reunited with his parents playing pinnacle and swapping stories about trouble caused on the farm in Granger.
For the last few years, Frankie brought so much joy to Tom. They spent a lot of time dancing at the Harman Center. They’ve laughed, navigated New York City at rush hour, spent good times in Boise with her family, saw the Liberty Bell, danced hundreds of times, broke bones, and shared stories.
He was interred with his parents at Calvary Cemetery in Yakima.
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