Gilbert Eugene “Gene” Long, 88, of Hiawatha Ks passed away on February 12, 2015.  

He was born on July 12, 1926 in Oneida, Ks to Harry and Ada Renner Long.  He attended school in Albany, Ks and graduated from Willis High School in 1953.  After high school he enlisted in the three branches of service Merchant Marines, Coast guard, and National Guard. He served in WWII as a rifleman and was also stationed for a period of time in Tokyo, Japan. 

Upon leaving the service he returned back to the states and lived in Willis, Ks. He graduated from Highland Community College and then went on to attend Peru State College where he received his teaching degree. He taught in a one-room schoolhouse in Grandview and then went on to teach and coach basketball in Willis.

He met and fell in love with Joan S. Stephens and they married on May 29, 1956.  She survives of the home. They had five children. 

Gene worked as a water superintendent for the City of Hiawatha, Ks for 25 years. He also worked as a custodian at the First Christian Church of Hiawatha and the Annex. He was a devoted brother, husband, father, and grandfather who never knew a stranger. His faith was very important to him and he attended church at Ayore Church in Morrill, Ks regularly until he was no longer able.  Gene had a strong work ethic and often would be seen mowing lawns, raking leaves, and scooping snow. He was always eager to lend a helping hand to whoever may be in need.  In his down ime he enjoyed watching KU basketball.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Ada Long. One sister Harriet Long and a baby brother. 

Survivors include: Wife Joan Long of the home, Sister Bessie Louise Sourk (Topeka) Children : Suelette (Tom) Bell of Fredonia, Ks, David (Penney)Long of Atchison, Ks, Debbie (Brian) Burch of Wetmore, Ks, Laurie Cavin of Hiawatha, and Milton Long of Hiawatha; also thirteen grand children and twelve great grand children. 

He was loved by many!

A Celebration of Gene’s life is planned for 2 p.m. Monday, February 16, at Chapel Oak Funeral Home in Hiawatha.  Casey McNerry will officiate, assisted by James Ferris.  Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha., with military honors a courtesy of the Brown County Veterans Honor Guard.

Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Sunday where the family will visit from 3 until 5 that afternoon.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Brown County Special Education Cooperative which may be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.  A special message may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com