David Wayne Long's Obituary
Born in Coos Bay Oregon, David’s family moved to St. Helens when he was an infant. Living by the Columbia River a love was born for the water. In his youth, he spend many hours in his little boat out on the Columbia River. Being inquisitive and adventuresome, he got to know the tug boat captains well, and at their invitation spent time riding on their tugs with them. As an adult David purchased a larger boat and for 29 years had fun with his wife and family on many adventures out on the Columbia River.
David was a man of many talents. In his early years he spent six years in the US Army National Guard. He helped his dad run family-owned variety stores throughout Oregon until progress ended the stores usefulness. He and his brother ran Long’s Home Center in St. Helens. When the Home Center closed David bought a semi and flatbed trailer and started David Long Trucking, hauling veneer between St. Helens and Astoria for several years. As mills closed and products to haul were scarce, David took on another challenge. He started working for Morse Bros/Knife River company driving dump truck and pups then switching to their concrete mixers for 15 years until retirement.
David loved to laugh and tell stories of his youth with his many friends and cohorts racing cars through town, his adventures on the river and driving truck. At family visits and gatherings he always had his kids and grand kids laughing at his stories. He was kind and loving and always ready and willing to help someone.
David is survived by his wife Lorna of almost 38 years of marriage and 40 years together, son Brett (wife Lisa), daughter Lisa (husband Mike), step-daughter Michele, step-daughter Tamara, six grandchildren, one great grandson, brother Roger, and two nephews.
He was loved dearly and will be remembered deeply.
What’s your fondest memory of David?
What’s a lesson you learned from David?
Share a story where David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with David you’ll never forget.
How did David make you smile?
