Dave H. Long

About Dave

David Halbert Long passed away on Wednesday, July 13, 2022.

David was born November 4, 1935, in Luverne, MN, the only child of Halbert and Viola Long and the joy of their life. The family moved to Algona, Iowa in 1938 where he spent the rest of his childhood.

After graduation from high school, he attended Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa for one year, but decided a stint in the Air Force would build some character. While in the Air Force he spent time in Colorado and Alaska and was in Alaska when it was declared a State in 1958 (enjoying the ensuing celebration that included a huge bonfire).

After his time in the service, he returned to Minnesota and earned a degree from Mankato State University, Mankato, MN. After graduation he moved to Park Rapids, MN where he resided the remainder of his life, enjoying the lakes, fishing, hunting, and beauty of northern Minnesota.

He was united in marriage to Janet Thompson in 1962 and recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. After living for 30 years on Portage Lake they moved to Red Wing Pond where he enjoyed working and meditating in the woods and watching wildlife on their property.

Throughout the years he enjoyed playing bridge and cribbage (with at least one 28/29 hand), reading, golfing (two holes-in-one), coffee with a great group of guys, working with his chain saws, hunting, and fishing (especially the annual trip to Canada with friends and family). He was a great dad and grandfather, enjoying a close relationship and friendship with his children and grandchildren. His favorite big word was mortaficabeltatoanidabitis.

While David held many jobs in his lifetime, he made a career teaching, starting while he was in the Air Force. After graduating from college, he taught business classes at Park Rapids Area High School, retiring after 33 years. While there he also assisted with the wrestling and tennis programs in the early years and oversaw athletic ticket sales.

Outside of work, he was Chairman of the governing board of St. Joseph's Hospital from 1981-1985. In retirement he continued to use his business sense, becoming Director of the Hubbard County Food Shelf, a position he held for 20 years, starting in 1994. He continued to volunteer with that organization until 2021, helping countless people. He was also on the Board of Directors of MAHUBEOTWA. In 2009, he was named Hubbard County Outstanding Senior Volunteer.

David was involved in scouting for over 50 years, becoming an Eagle Scout in 1952, the first in his hometown to achieve that distinction. He served for a time as Scoutmaster of Troop 58, leader of Explorer Post 58, and was an Eagle Scout Board of Review member, also serving as Eagle Court of Honor emcee for many years. He was the proud father, grandfather, and father-in-law to Eagle Scouts and Girl Scout Gold Award achievers.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years Jan; his son Brian, daughter-in-law Ruth, and grandchildren Adam and McKendra; his daughter Judy and son-in-law James Harrower.

memorial service

Funeral Services for Dave

July 19, 2022

Calvary Lutheran Church 112 Park Ave, Park Rapids, MN 56470, USA

Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at the Bethel Cemetery.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Cease Family Funeral Home