Thomas "Dave" David Long

Thomas David "Dave" Long, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, was born on September 13, 1930, in Gaylord, Michigan, to Edna Belle (Reynolds) and Orville Long. He was the eleventh of eleven children, with two sisters and eight brothers, all of whom preceded him in death.

Dave attended Honor Agricultural School and later Muskegon Heights High School. At the age of 15, he left school to support himself and worked wherever he could find employment. His early jobs included working in the celery flats and setting pins at a bowling alley. That bowling alley job began a lifelong love of bowling, which he enjoyed well into his 70s.

Dave proudly served his country in the United States Army, spending three years in Korea during the Korean Conflict as a searchlight operator. Following his honorable discharge, he was given the opportunity to work at the General Motors plant in Grand Rapids as a tool and die operator.

It was in Grand Rapids that Dave met the love of his life, Jane Tillie, a teacher. They were married on June 26, 1960, and shared 66 years of marriage. In 1967, Dave and Jane moved their family to Portage, Michigan, where Dave continued his career with General Motors. In all, he dedicated 43 years of his working life to the company. While working at the plant, Dave also earned his GED, a testament to his determination and desire to continue learning.

After retirement, Dave's daughters encouraged him to try woodworking. He quickly discovered a talent and passion for it. He lovingly crafted handmade furniture for family and friends, with his beautiful wooden cradles being especially treasured. These pieces remain throughout the homes of those he loved, serving as lasting reminders of his hands, his creativity, and his generous spirit.

Above all else, Dave's faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. In 1968, he made Jesus his Lord and Savior and faithfully served the Lord for many years. He was especially involved in the church bus ministry and in maintaining the church buses. Dave never met a stranger. In his later years, it was not uncommon to see him wearing his Korean War Veteran hat and striking up a conversation with someone he had just met. He readily shared his love for Jesus and sincerely wanted everyone he encountered to know Him and go to Heaven.

Dave had a remarkable ability to learn and remember Scripture, often quoting verses as he witnessed to others. Even as his mind began to age, Scripture continued to fill his thoughts and words, and he would quote Bible verses and sing beloved hymns. Even while experiencing pain in his final days, Dave continued to witness to the aides who cared for him, sharing the love of Jesus until the end.

Dave will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his love of family, his willingness to help others, his woodworking, his love of bowling, his service to his country and church, and most of all, his unwavering faith. His kindness and willingness to talk to anyone made him a friend to many, and his joyful spirit was a blessing to all who knew him.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Jane; his three daughters, Janna Phelps (Scott), Jeri Bowman (Guy), and Dawn Webb (Brian); nine grandchildren: Nick Phelps (Kayla), Ryan Bowman (Alysen), Corey Webb, Hannah Bowman Johnson (Trevor), Sam Phelps (Ashley), Kyle Webb, Zach Bowman (Alyssa), Kathryn Webb Swenson (Alex), and Christian Webb; and eight great-grandchildren, Ava Phelps, Emma Phelps, Wyatt Roach-Bowman, Graham Bowman, Hadley Bowman, Oliver Phelps, Adalyn Bowman, and Cayde Phelps.'Dave's earthly journey is complete, but the faith he lived and shared so freely leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of his family and all who knew him. His family takes comfort in knowing that the Savior he loved and faithfully served welcomed him home.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission or the Alternatives Pregnancy Center.

In accordance with the family's wishes there will be a graveside committal service and military salute at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 W Dickman Rd, Augusta, MI 49012 at 2:00 pm on Friday, September 25, 2026 (line up 15 minutes before the service). A Celebration of Life will follow from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the funeral home where there will be light refreshments.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Dave's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Long family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600.