Donald J. Long

Donald James Long, age 37 of Grand Rapids, formerly of Deckerville, passed away on July 14, 2023, in his home. He was born on May 2,1986, the beloved son of the late Dr. James Long and Janet (Fischmeister) Long and younger brother to Katie, Betsy, and Laura. Donald grew up in Deckerville and graduated from Deckerville High School in 2004. In 2011, he graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. He received certifications in Project Management and ScrumMaster and worked as a project manager and business analyst in the Chicago area for ten years before relocating to Grand Rapids where he worked remotely. Donald was adventurous and traveled to many states within the U.S. and countries throughout the world, including a recent visit to England, Greece, and France. He felt at home in nature, taking walks and camping, and he loved the water, including sailing and swimming. He enjoyed music - playing the piano and clarinet, singing, as well as attending symphonies and orchestras. His other hobbies included: spending time with friends playing trivia and other games and cooking. Donald was great with kids and was happy spending time with his dear friend, Allyson and her family, the Scott's, whom he considered his "second" family and lived near him. Donald is survived by his mother, Janet Long of Deckerville, three sisters, Katie (Chris) Dunn of Peck, Betsy (Befkadu) Meshesha of St. Clair Shores, and Laura (Charles) Warczinsky of Marysville and three nieces, Paige and Carley Dunn and Aday Meshesha. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. James Long in 1999. A memorial service will be held to honor the life of Donald James Long on Friday, July 21, 2023, at Apsey Funeral Home at Noon. Pastor David Frost will officiate. The burial of his ashes will take place in East Marion Cemetery later this year. The visitation will be from 10:00-Noon on Friday. Memorials may be made in memory of Donald to the Goodtimers. Condolences may be made online to apseyfuneralhome.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Donald James Long please visit our Sympathy Store. Cemetery Details East Marion Baptist Cemetery 4800 E. Shabbona Rd. Deckerville, MI Loading map Previous Events Gathering of Family and Friends JUL 21. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (ET) Apsey Funeral Home 3467 Main St. Deckerville, MI 48427 apseyfuneral@gmail.com Loading map Memorial Service JUL 21. 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (ET) Apsey Funeral Home 3467 Main St. Deckerville, MI 48427 apseyfuneral@gmail.com Loading map