Obituary of James Long

Age 89, of St. Paul Died on Feb. 11, 2014 Preceded in death by wife Mary, sister Patricia Blanchett and brother William (Lori). Survived by loving children Sally Haugen (Wayne), Michael (Marne) and James, stepson William Peterson and friend Sheli Mills, eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Jim was born April 26, 1924 and was a graduate of Cretin High School and College of St. Thomas. WWII interrupted his college education; he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and piloted B-24s in the Pacific theater, and returned to graduate. Jim was a wonderful single parent who raised his three children, and was a longtime employee of Swift and Co. in South St. Paul. Jim proudly celebrated his Irish heritage in St. Paul's annual St. Patrick's Day celebration. He was an accomplished bowler and later an avid golfer, an enthusiastic reader, and had a great sense of humor, especially when relating anecdotes of his family and many friends. Above all, his deep Catholic faith sustained him always. Visitation Sunday, Feb. 16 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Willwerscheid Natural Burial and Cremation, 235 Wentworth Ave. W., West St. Paul. Mass of Christian Burial Monday, Feb. 17 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 408 Third St. No., South St. Paul. Interment Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights. The family is grateful for the loving care of Little Sisters of the Poor during Jim's last months. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Little Sisters of the Poor, 330 Exchange St. So., St. Paul, MN 55102.