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Paul Long Obituary
58 Entries
Debbie Alex
July 6, 2009
Dear Karen and Devin,
Thinking about you today and also still praying for your comfort. I'm fondly remembering good times on HST with Paul and Devin.
Old friends of mine also lost an 18-year old son on the train that day (Jacob Hefter). Yesterday was his 19th birthday.
Thank you, God, for leaving Karen and Devin here with us! May God grant you peace and God bless you both.
Bethany L. (BJU Alumnus)
April 28, 2009
I'm still praying for you in your loss. I wish we could have known you and Paul. Please know that Karen, Devin, Gail and family have been lifted before God's throne today for comfort. In fact, my 4 year old often requests that we pray for you at night. May the God of all comfort give you a peace that passes all understanding.
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Kim B
January 23, 2009
Karen & Devin,
Remembering that God is good in all His ways, I continue to pray for you and trust that the Lord is your strength and comfort every day.
Christopher Moya
November 13, 2008
Dear Karen and Devin,
I'm still praying for you. Know that the Holy Spirit walks with you every day. If there's any way I can be of help or comfort to you, please don't hesitate to let me know. I miss Paul very much and look forward to embracing him once again in the presence of the Lord. God bless you both now and always.
Chris Moya
Karol Burkhardt
September 25, 2008
I had been hoping that our families would cross paths one day so that we all could tell Paul what an impact he had on our kid's lives. They are now married, with babies, in ministry & still benefiting from his English & Bible classes. I can still hear them come home from school & share about Mr. Long. He prepared them so well. I only wish they had taken German (so that I could use it again). When I heard you had been to Paul's mother's funeral, it made me fondly remember Paul telling me that it was she who encouraged him to teach it. Karen, I was so comforted by seeing you on T.V. What strength the Lord gave you for that moment. I so rejoiced over hearing Devin speak on the news about his father. God was glorified and will be there for you as you mourn your great loss. Love in Him, Karol
Jane Hewitt
September 24, 2008
Dear Karen and Devin,
I was so grateful we were able to come out for Paul's Memorial and to spend time with you. Paul was a great husband, wonderful father and a fantastic big brother, he will be greatly missed by all. But we will see him again one day. I heard today from Mr. Lee at Oaks Christian that 5 students were saved after his service. I believe in the days to come we will find out that the number is even higher. Call me anytime. We love you and Devin very much.
Steven, Jane, Lori and Travis
Brian & Leighsa Lattimore
September 24, 2008
May God Bless the Long family and continue to keep you safe through these trying times and coming days.
Gail Nicholas
September 24, 2008
Karen and Devin,
I am so glad we all got out to California to be with you and to be at Paul's memorial service. We love you both and will always be there for you even though the miles separate us!! Much Love from Gail and family
Mary Davis
September 23, 2008
as i read and grieved the loss of some truly amazing people due to the metrolink accident, i was reading one obit and came to realize that i had gone to high school with the subject of the obituary--a LOOOOONG time ago and on the other side of this continent. I think we were even on the staff of the school newspaper together--in the day when it required a mimeograph machine to become a publication.
weird, huh? but it was kind of amazing to well, "catch up" with what he'd been doing before being swept off to heaven: he'd been a great teacher, obviously listened to at critical moments, with a wife and son who were close and loving...what more legacy could anyone want to leave? sure, he might have thought it would be nice to retire, to travel, something...but how much better to be caught unawares and to discover that one has left a legacy worth recounting. it's one thing to be kindly remembered because everyone feels badly for your family. It's quite another thing to have left a small wake of shock and awe simply because you were a person whose living so positively impacted others that your dying actually causes them to remember how well and beautifully you stepped into their lives when you were needed. A salute to Paul S Long, who as i recall, was the sports desk at the newspaper at BJA. May we all live so well that we die so well.
Greg Burkhardt
September 23, 2008
Paul was always the loving, intelligent and kinda "goofy" guy that you had to love and admire. I mean goofy in the kindest of ways due to the black leather fanny pack and his glasses sometimes at the end of his nose! His amazing impact on thousands of kids growing up is a legacy that very few ever have the ability to achieve. The many years we spent at Shiloh Community Church in Moorpark hearing and learning more about the Bible were years of growth and loving service to his flock. The very obvious love you had for Karen and the extreme joy you had when Devon entered the world were great blessings from our Lord and Savior! My thanks again to you for the impact you had on my daughter (Lara Joy Mehl) and my son (Christian Burkhardt) and it is still apparent to this very day. Some who did not know you very well may have thought that you were just another guy, teacher, husband, father, etc., but those of us who were privileged to have known you, knew that you were someone very special that the Lord was using for His glory. May Karen and Devon take comfort in the fact that you were His servant taking care of His plans for this small time He allowed our paths to meet together. May our loving asnd gracious Lord and Savior continue to richly bless all those that you shared your live with. Grace and Peace in abundance.
Lara (Burkhardt) Mehl
September 23, 2008
You will always be "Mr. Long" to me, I never could get used to calling you Paul after I graduated. You were one of, if not THE greatest teachers I ever had. What a gift you had for knowledge and teaching and students. It was your teaching and your classes that made me love English, and that followed me into my college studies. For some time, I even considered becoming a HS English teacher because I wanted to impact students the way you had impacted me. Even though I did not end up going that route, I will always have a love for English and for reading (writing is another story). You also impacted me in my desire to learn from God's Word. I think it was when you taught my 11th Grade Bible class. I will never forget the experiences we shared in that class, the worship, the prayer...it was more like a Bible study group than a class. You instilled a desire in us to worship God more deeply and to talk with Him honestly about what was going on in our lives. What a bonding and growing experience that was for all of us. Mr. Long, I will always look back on your life with fond memories and a gratefulness that God allowed our paths to cross for a period of very formative years. You have left a beautiful legacy that cannot help but bring glory to God. I give thanks to Him for your life.
With Love,
Lara (Burkhardt) Mehl
Grace Brethren c/o 1998
peter and sue otto
September 22, 2008
karen and devon
We are so saddened by the loss of paul. I met him back in 1980 at bible study I attended, He left a great love and and joy of jesus every where he went. our prayers are with you for the comming years.
Andy, Norma Jean and John Michael Simko
September 21, 2008
Karen and Devon our deepest sympathies are sent to you. Wishing you comfort and peace. May the memories you hold deep within your heart help to soothe you. Norma Jean's favorite memory of Paul is when she had the privilege to assist coach the jr. girl's softball team at Grace Brethren School with him. You are in our prayers.
Mathew Desrosiers
September 21, 2008
Pau Long a man who loved greatly. a man who gave his heart in full.. loved as Christ loved... A man that I will not forget.. and will one day see again in glory.. to worship side by side.. My love goes out to Karen and devon...(the miracle baby!) No matter what happens heaven waits for those who believe.
Russ and Rhonda Cattley
September 21, 2008
Paul taught our son, Richard, Bible and English at Grace Brethren School. In fact, when we moved here in 1999 from NC, Paul was our first contact when we visited Grace Brethren. We had an instant connection because of his roots being in SC. He was an excellent teacher and we never saw our son work so hard! We are praying for you Karen and Devin and for the rest of your family.
Anna
September 20, 2008
Mr. Long was a great man who had an amazing impact on the people who met him and who got to know him. Although I did not get to know him as well as many other people, he did touch my life in ways that I will never forget. On Friday, I went to the core room where Mr. Long once had, and still has, a desk. I needed help on homework for Biology and I didn't know that Mr. Long's desk was there. Walking past his desk made me look over, because as I walked, I smelt the scent of all of the flowers on his desk. The sight was really sad. So many people loved Mr. Long and are grieving over his death. For me, I am given peace in the fact that he is with our father, God, in heaven. So many people think that it is tragic that he died coming back from his mother's funeral but I know that he is with her now and they are praising God together. Mr. Long couldn't be happier and I look forward to the day when I get to see him again in heaven. Mrs.Long and Devin, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Mr. Long was an amazing man but he is with his heavenly father.
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always Mr. Long. You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
JEANIE SHERMAN
September 20, 2008
Pastor Paul gave the most enlightening sermons. All of them touched my heart and made me think how proud I am and so lucky to be a believer. He was also so funny and sometimes not even knowing that. A very humble man and was so proud of his wife (Karen) and son Devin. He showed us pictures of Devin running and you could see each time how his face lite up with pride.
This family was as close to each other as all of us Christians are to the Lord..My prayers are with Karen & Devin to hold all the memories of Paul & eventually grieve no more ,just love everything Paul did with happiness and remember Paul as a great man & great husband and great Dad. He is with our Lord in peace and I'm sure he will always be your gaurdian angel. All my prayers are with both of you now and forever. love, Jeanie Sherman
from Life Spring Church
Trina Moore-Southall
September 20, 2008
I've gotten to know Paul even better as his former students have shared wonderful, funny stories. Stories of encouragement and support, friendship and leadership. Paul has made a fantastic impact in our community. He lived the life God called him to live.
Lori Sorrels
September 20, 2008
I knew Paul back in the 1980's. He was a Church Director in Thousand Oaks. He had a bible study a friend and I attended weekly. I'm really sorry , he was a great man. He will be missed not only by his family, but by the many friends he had made. Karen, he is with God now.
Viktor Budrys
September 20, 2008
Paul Long was a great teacher but most importantly he loved Jesus Christ. He showed it everyday. We all know he is before the throne of God. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family during this time.
Chantelle Esteb
September 20, 2008
Mr Long was my English teacher at Grace Brethren and I still can't believe this happened. He was truely a great person and an awesome teacher. My heart goes out to his wife and son.
Evelyn Rodriguez
September 19, 2008
May God give you the strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Janet Swarts
September 18, 2008
Dear Karen and Devin, May you find God's comfort, His Peace, and His presence in this time of sorrow. Please know that Paul is rejoicing in Heaven, as we all will one day as Children of God! I will miss Paul's smile and his sense of humor. Paul has left a void at Oaks Christian School, and simply cannot be replaced. You are in my prayers. Try to remember that God does not take - He receives. God Bless you and your family.
Billy Dallas
September 18, 2008
Devin and Karen we are all very sorry for your loss of your husband/ father he was loved by everyone at oaks. We pray for a quick recovery for you and Devin.
Laurie Hagberg
September 18, 2008
We have lost a gentle, godly man, friend, colleague, teacher. Heaven has gained one more to welcome us when we make our own arrival Home.
Love and prayers for Devin and Karen.
Ann Overholt
September 18, 2008
Mr. Long was dearly loved at Oaks Christian School by the students and faculty. His will be missed.
Jo Anne Jackson
September 18, 2008
Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Almighty God will bring joy to those who are mourning. He will comfort you in your greatest time of need. (Isaiah 61:1-2)
travis radke
September 18, 2008
Paul Long was my advisor at oaks christian. He helped me see the good in all and always had a free spirit he will be missed and i'm broken for the long family
Jen Morgan
September 18, 2008
Paul was a great friend and leader. He trained me into my position as Children's Director at church with him. He had his hand in SO many people's lives and in so many ministries! Life Spring Community Church will greatly miss his faithful help and do-er attitude. If something had to get done, we could always trust Paul to diligently put together a team or just do it himself. We will definitely feel the gap without him. Thank you for always reminding me that God has a plan and how faithfully He will carry it out. You have changed my life as well as everyone elses lives you came in contact with. Have fun partying it up with Jesus till I see you there!
Stacy Barnard
September 18, 2008
Mr. Long was my eighth grade teacher & basketball coach. He was definitely my favorite teacher. He was funloving and encouraging and just all around great. I am unable to grasp that he has died. I'm glad he's with the Father, but I'm sorry for the loss of everyone else who is still here.
Daniel Pendleton-Lopez
September 17, 2008
Paul Long was my Advisor at Oaks Christian School this year and last. He was a man who truly cared for everyone around him. I came to school my freshman year nervous and scared, but Mr. Long made the transition an easier one. I still read my Emails from him. One in particular where he says Happy Birthday Daniel and gives one of his many humorous remarks. I hope that his wife and son Devin will always have peace remembering what a great man he was. My wish is that they live everyday knowing he is watching over them. Mr Long was and still is a follower of Christ and is a man after God's own heart.
He will always be in my heart.
Carter Franciskovic
September 17, 2008
Mr. Long,
You were more than just my English teacher and more than just my adviser. You were a true friend and a great one at that. You helped me through sports, you helped me school, and you helped me through life. I will never forget all the things you did for me. I will miss you greatly. R.I.P.
Brandon Martinez
September 17, 2008
Mr. Long was certainly an incredible human being...kind, enormously intelligent, funny, and godly. We will never forget him; we will see him in Heaven. The best is yet to come!
Julie Wienke
September 17, 2008
This was a man who was loved and admired by so many! When I attended the prayer service Sunday evening at Grace with my daughter, we were both so impressed by Mr. Long's friend, Pastor Tony. Besides the heartfelt sympathy I have for his wife and son, my heart breaks for Pastor Tony as well. This gentleman said how he was on the freeway in Northridge when he heard about the accident and went straight to Chatsworth. He was there standing by Devin in those horrible later hours on Saturday as well. This graciousness and man of Christ shows us what a friendship they shared.
I will never forget the souls that perished last Friday- May God Bless you Karen and Devin today and in the days to come. I willpray for your comfort and peace through Christ.
Robert & Connie Scott
September 17, 2008
My deepest sympathy to all of you. May God give all of you peace at this very sad time. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
Dennis and Dannette Espinoza
September 17, 2008
our thoughts and prayers to family and friends.
Irene Barnard
September 17, 2008
Paul was my daughters' teacher and was loved and respected by both of us. Paul continued to pray for Stacy and I over the years -- long after graduation. Karen and Devin, you are in my prayers.
Jim and Myra Utley Collinsville IL
September 17, 2008
My prayers to all those who lost a loved one. God be with the family!
Sarah Ponce
September 16, 2008
Karen & Devin,
Your husband/father was an amazing man. He adored the both of you more than I could only hope my husband and kids adore me! He never missed an opportunity to share the latest Devin story or to let us all know how much he loved Karen. He was also an incredible man of faith! The type of man who was consistant and lived what he preached! He inspired me to worship; to really worship on a totally personal level. He was extremely intelligent and I swear, he knew everything. He made me love English and Bible and German and everything else he taught! He loved teaching and he personally invested in each one of his students and it showed. I am honored to have had the opportunity to have Mr. Long in my life from 1993 to 1998 when I graduated. He made a life-lasting impact and I know I am not alone in feeling this way. You should both be so proud! He loved you both so very much and most of all he loved and lived for the Lord! What an amazing legacy he left us! I can't wait until the day we are all together again in paradise! My prayers are with you all at this time. May the Holy Spirit fill you with peace and comfort and bring healing to your wounded spirits.
Respectfully,
Sarah Ponce (Buckley)
Tamie Chessani
September 16, 2008
Long Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Paul you will be dearly missed.
Pat Bauman
September 16, 2008
Dear Karen and Devon: I'm so sorry to hear about your tragic loss of Paul. I went to Calvary Church in Simi, which later changed to Simi Valley E.V. Free Church. Karen, I knew you when you played the piano during church service, and Paul was the Assistant Pastor and Music Coordinator. Devon was not yet born, I can imagine the joy your son must have brought to both Paul and yourself. I always enjoyed your company and I truly mourn your loss of Paul. We know that Paul has attained by your loss to be forever with Jesus, Our Lord and Savior. You and Devon are in my thoughts and prayers. Someday, we will meet again. In Jesus Love,
Staci Smith
September 16, 2008
God bless you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Craig Thompson
September 16, 2008
I attended Church with Paul and Karen when I was a kid, way back in the early 80's. I also had Paul as a High School Teach at West Simi Christain. He was well like by all the student body. He started each day in class with prayer, and a verse from the Word. We were all blessed to have Paul Long in our lives. Our prayers go out to Karen and Devon.
Jenny & Trish Rime
September 16, 2008
With our deepest sympathy!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lucas & Rime Family
Candace Cooper
September 16, 2008
I had Mr. Long for Bible class at Grace Brethren. I just wanted to say he will be very missed and anyone that had the pleasure of being his student was very blessed. I remember Mr. Long going to every Grace Bretheren Football game walking around with his classic fanny pack. He never cared what anyone thought, he encouraged all of his students to do better and be better people all while having such a strong faith. I will never forget the look of love he had in his eyes everytime his wife entered the room. He cherished her in everyway and loved his son more than life itself. The world just became a little dimmer without his kind words and shining smile.
Tina Ottinger
September 16, 2008
Mr Long was my daughters English teacher at Grace Brethren. He was such a great teacher and a kind and gentle man who cared about the kids. He will be missed terribly.
Our prayers are with family.
Pat Buckley
September 16, 2008
Both of my kids went to Grace Brethren High School in Simi. Danny played baseball for Mr. Long in 8th grade when they won the title. The next year, the same players took the varsity team to the City's first baseball CIF championship. Both Sarah and Danny loved Mr. Long as a mentor, teacher, coach, and wonderful Christian example. I loved the way he treated people and he will be sorely missed. You can tell the quality of a man's character by the way he treats people and his greatest legacy is the lives of people he touched.
Devon should always remember his dad as a man who put service of others ahead of self; just as Jesus did. What an amazing thought that he is now walking the walk, hand in hand, with our Lord. He would be so proud of you and your mother!
Thomas Widgeon
September 16, 2008
Jesus Loves Me!!!
Jennette Fennell
September 16, 2008
Mr Long was one of my high school teachers from 1981-1984 at Indian Hills Christian Academy in Simi Valley ~ I guess we are made to grieve whenever anyone we know dies and most of us go day by day in shock when it does happen and we can't help but wonder WHY! ... Why did God take his life now? and why this way? Yet when you hear and see all the people that Mr Long touched throughout all these years and if there was just one person what will become saved from this whole tragic experience then you know that Paul Long would have said, "Then that's the way it has to be and I will give my life for that person!" Although we only know pain here, can you not see him rejoicing and celebrating wtih Jesus in Heaven?! How glorious and magnificant it must be! He gave his life, his heart and everything in between to teaching people about Jesus. I guess his work was finally done and he was called home. Instead of grieving we should be rejoicing, instead of being sad we should realize that God has a bigger plan and He is in control. Thank you Lord for sending Paul Long here for the amount of time you did and for all the lives he touched and taught. My Long you will be missed!
Dale & Stacy Smith
September 15, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with Karen & Devin! We were honored to get to know them through Life Springs Church!
Lynne Chlebinski (Morrison)
September 15, 2008
Such a great lose. I am a former student of Mr Long. I rember him very well. He will be greatly missed.
Christine Humphrey
September 15, 2008
Our prayers will continue for your family and students.
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