Robert Long

ROBERT LONG

Cedar Rapids

Robert E. "Bob" Long, 92, passed from this life to his eternal one on March 10, 2014, after a long illness. He was a lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids, and most recently had been residing at The Meth-Wick Community. He was truly one of the last of the greatest generation. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his loving kindness and great sense of humor.

Bob was born to Angus S. and Clarice Johnston Long on Dec. 13, 1921, in Cedar Rapids. He was a graduate of McKinley High School and earned his B.A. degree from Coe College. Shortly after graduation, he married his high school sweetheart and first love of his life, Mildred Broulik, with whom he shared a beautiful 62 years, until her death in 2005. They had two children, Bill and Robyn.

After college, Bob enlisted in the Army and was deployed to Europe as an infantry captain, where he led his company across parts of Austria, Ukraine, France and into Nuremberg, Germany when the war ended. Bob was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery for saving the lives of several men during a German attack one night. After returning home, he went into business with his late brother, Ward Long, and co-owned and operated Motor Equipment Co. His second career, when in his 50s, was as director of Handicapped Systems of Linn County, where he oversaw the remarkable growth and development of that program, of which he was most proud.

After his retirement, Bob and Mildred spent many winters as "snow birds" in Fort Meyers Beach, Fla. When in Cedar Rapids, Bob actively pursued his woodworking hobby, attending many area craft shows displaying and selling his work.

A few years after Mildred's death, Bob was fortunate to meet his second love, Beryl Benton. They were married in April 2008 and had several happy years together.

As a lifelong devout Christian and student of the Bible, Bob was a past member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he was baptized as an infant. Most recently, he was an active member of Faith Bible Church.

Bob is survived by his wife, Beryl Long of Cedar Rapids; his daughter, Robyn Moon (Ken) of Cedar Rapids; his son, Bill Long (Kai) of St. Augustine, Fla.; and his nephew, Bob Long (Jean) of Fort Meyers, Fla.

A visitation for the public will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home on Friday, March 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. A memorial service will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories on Saturday, March 15, at 11 a.m.

Flowers are gratefully declined, however, those wishing may make a donation in Bob's memory to Faith Bible Church, 1800 46th St. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.