Donald Long

Donald L. Long passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at his home in Littleton, CO. He reached the age of 95 yrs.

Don was born in Bristow, OK on Oct. 25, 1927 to Bonnie B. and Esther Long. He had one older sister, Lorene Alcorn, who lived to the age of 100.

He graduated from Bristow High School in 1945 where he began his life-long love of the trumpet. He enjoyed being a Scout, and achieved the Star rank level.

He was a Veteran of the United States Navy and served at the end of WWII. He was a Reserve 2nd LT in the US Army Corp of Engineers during the Korean war.

Don graduated from The University of Oklahoma in 1949 with a degree in Civil Engineering. He was a chairman of Theta Xi Fraternity and a member of the American Legion. He spent one year in law school, but left school for a great job opportunity.

Don moved to Colorado where he spent most of his career in the oil and gas industry. He met the love of his life in Denver, Phyllis A. Smith, and was married in 1958. After living in Kansas and Wyoming, they settled in Littleton CO. They were married for 63 years until her passing in November 2021. They had 3 daughters, 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He loved them all dearly.

Don was a long time active member of Columbine United Church. He was a Shriner and played the trumpet for the El Jebel Shrine Band and Golden Eagle Brass Band. His Masonic career spanned 52 years. He served as band president and later as treasurer. His faithfulness and philanthropic spirit was evident in all he did.

Don was a good neighbor and a good man. He loved gardening, skiing, fishing and traveling. We will remember him for his honesty, integrity, commitment and a positive outlook on life. He had a long full life filled with love of family and community.

Don is survived by his three daughters, Bonnie Long (Mitch), Cynthia Giltner (Ward), Sheryl Reicher (Tim); grandchildren, Christine Shapiro (Josh), Grant Giltner, Molly Williams (Nathanael), Christopher Reicher, Lilliana Reicher; great-grandchildren, Emersyn & Luke Shapiro, Rosalie Williams.


Memorials in his name may be sent to Shriners Hospital for Children. Donations payable to:

Shriners Hospital for Children, Salt Lake City, Utah (include city)
1275 East Fairfax Road
Salt Lake City, Utah 84103