Charles E. "Gus" Long, age 78, a life-long resident of Bloomsburg, died unexpectedly on Friday morning, November 7, 2014 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Gus was born on Thursday, November 14, 1935, in Bloomsburg, a son of the late John W. and Perl (Beltz) Long. Throughout his younger years, he attended the Bloomsburg area school and graduated with the 1953 Senior Class of the Bloomsburg High School. Shortly following his education, Gus enlisted with the United States Army as a Medical Corpsman during the post Korean Conflict. After returning to his hometown, Gus owned and operated Long's Supply in Montour Township, a family business of over 50 years, until retiring in 1994.
On February 14, 1985, Gus married his loving wife the former, Betty Henrie. He was a devoted member of the Wesley United Methodist Church in Bloomsburg for over 50 years. He was also a member of the Washington Lodge #265 F&AM and the Caldwell Consistory. He also served for many years on the Bloomsburg Municipal Authority and was a director of the former Columbia County Farmers National Bank. He was also a member of the former Liberty Fire Company and the Fireman's Relief Association.
Gus will be remembered for his love and care he gave his family. He was very supportive of his grandson's athletic activities, as a sponsor and active supporter of the Bloomsburg Wrestling program. He was also very proud of his granddaughter's scholastic achievements along with her drama and dance activities.
Surviving is his beloved wife of 29 years, Betty (Henrie) Long, of Bloomsburg; a son: John E. Long of Bloomsburg; two grandchildren: Alexis Long and Marcus Long; and also a daughter-in-law: Laura Long of Buckhorn. Gus was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
A time of Visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday evening, November 12 from 4 to 6 p.m. from the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg. Friends will also be received on Thursday morning, November 13 from 9 to 10 a.m. in the parlor of the Wesley United Methodist Church, 130 W. Third and Market Street, Bloomsburg.
Funeral services will begin on Thursday morning, November 13 at 10 a.m. from the Wesley United Methodist Church, 130 W. Third and Market Street, Bloomsburg with Rev. Ralph B. Hartenbach, of the Bower Memorial United Methodist in Berwick, officiating. Graveside committal services will immediately follow in Lime Ridge. The Allen Funeral Home, Inc., Bloomsburg is honored to be serving the Long family.
Memorial contributions in Gus' name are suggested to: Town Park Improvement Assoc., P.O. Box 432, Bloomsburg, PA 17815; Bloomsburg High School Drama Program, 1200 Railroad St., Bloomsburg, PA 17815; or the Bloomsburg High School Wrestling Boosters, 584 W. 3rd St., Bloomsburg, PA 17815.