Gerald Long

Gerald “ Joe” Long, USMC Lt. Col, went to heaven on Sunday, Dec 8, 2019.
Born in Salt Lake City Utah. Preceded in death by his parents Hayden and Wanda N. Long, his siblings: Faye, Boyd, Wig and Dennis. He is survived by his brothers, Monte and Donnie, his sisters, Sue and Lynne. Joe grew up in Albuquerque, 1960 Sandia High Graduate and football star. 1968 UNM B.S Health and Physical Education Graduate & 1978 UNM B.S. Business Administration Graduate. Joe was a highly decorated Vietnam Veteran. USMC Presidential Helicopter Pilot under Nixon/Ford Administrations, Vietnam Medevac Helicopter Pilot. He returned to Albuquerque, to raise his daughters, Denise and Kerry Long. Joe was a wonderful Father and Grandfather! He was very accomplished, he worked as: TVI Educator, NM Steel Erectors, esteemed Post Tension Foreman (Ironworkers Union 495) specializing in Blue Print Reading and Apprenticeship Instructor, Intel Trainer and Retiree. Joe loved to dance and was a terrific country-western dancer. Joe loved the Sandia Matadors, the Lobos and USMC to the end!! Thank you to ALL who helped care for Dad, with a special “Thank you” to Mark and Judy Reynolds and Dr. Peter Tiernan.
Forever honored, cherished and loved by his daughters, Denise and Kerry Long and grandchildren Trinton and Tamaryn Gonzales. Memorial service will be held Sat, Dec 14, 2019 at 11:30 am at UNM Alumni Chapel, Reception to follow at Strong-Thorne.