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John Long Obituary

John F. Long John F. Long, a native Phoenician who played a major role in transforming the city from a small town into the metropolis it is today, passed away early on the morning of February 29, 2008. Born John Frederick Pilger on May 17th 1920, the first child of German immigrants, he learned the value of hard work as a boy. His father passed away suddenly and Fred was expected to contribute to the family coffers in whatever way he could - selling newspapers, milking cows, herding cattle - anything that brought in a few dollars. His mother remarried and he took his stepfather's name, Long. With the Depression in full bloom there was little time to celebrate. Of course, it wasn't all work. One summer night at a softball game in 1937, a girl on the Webster's Dairy team caught his eye. Her name was Mary Tolmachoff, and the two began dating. World War II interrupted their courtship and John was eventually posted with the 456th Bomber Group in Stornara, Italy, where he worked as a mechanic on B-17's and B-24's. Upon his return from the war, John and Mary set out to build themselves a home with tools borrowed from his stepfather and a G.I. loan. Before they could move in, a buyer offered the newlyweds twice what the house cost them to build. John F. Long Homes was born and Mary would have to wait a little longer for "her" house. With a clear vision of the future and ideas about more efficient homebuilding, John soon set his sights on large tracts of land in what at that time was considered "way out west" in Phoenix. Maryvale, named after his wife, was the first master planned community in Arizona. At its peak, 100 houses a day were being sold - homes for working people, built with an acute attention to detail. A large sign in the company shop read "Build every home as if you planned to own it," and that simple, honest ethic infused everything the company did. By the 1960s there were subdivisions scattered throughout the Valley. Concerned with the environment and excited by new technology, John built his Solar One housing development as a showcase for water conservation and solar electric production. As always, the emphasis was on quality for a fair price. Upon his induction to the National Housing Hall of Fame in Washington, D.C., John remarked, "I'd like to thank 30,000 home buyers, without whom none of this would have been possible." For his achievements as Arizona's most prolific, innovative and visionary builder, he was selected as one of the inaugural inductees into the Arizona Business Hall of Fame. Additional honors include Doctor of Humane Letters from Arizona State University, Arizona Historymaker, and the first Lifetime Achievement Award from Westmarc. The latter has since been renamed The John F. Long award. Driven by his deep sense of civic responsibility, he created a philanthropic foundation which has supported local charities, schools and general community needs in the Valley for nearly 50 years. This work will continue. John's family was as important to him as his work. The father of three once said, "My business and family life are really one. Trying to separate them would be like trying to separate the hump from the camel." His philosophy was always to give what he could, never back away from a challenge, and always stand up for the "little guy." He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary; his sister, Betty, and his half-brother Bill. He is survived by his children, Manya, Jake and Tot (David Lewis); grandchildren Jamie (Jake Lungren), Dan, Matt and Arron; great grandson, Abe; and his half-sister Lula Rose. A funeral service, open to the public, will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, March 10, at The Community Church of Joy, 21000 N. 75th Ave, in Glendale, AZ. Interment will follow at Resthaven Park Cemetery, 6290 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale, AZ. Rest in peace Fred, you earned it. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley 1510 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014 and American Baptist Homes of the West Foundation - for benefit of The Terraces - Phoenix - 6120 Stoneridge Mall Road, 3rd Floor Pleasanton, CA 94588. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Hansen Arrowhead Funeral Center, 602-944-1561

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Published by The Arizona Republic from Mar. 7 to Mar. 9, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for John Long

Not sure what to say?





January 6, 2019

I was saddened to hear of Mr. Long's passing. I only met the man one time. He seemed to be a very nice guy. My folks moved to maryvale in 1970. He helped us get a baseball diamond on the corner of 47th Ave & Camelback. It was important to a lot of people back then. And I will always remember what his name meant to our community. R.I.P

January 28, 2014

I MISS MY BOSS..I WAS HIS CAREGIVER UNTIL HIS LAST BREATH.. I DROVE PASS ALMOST EVERYDAY TO HIS GRAVES..AND I LOOK AT THAT GRAVES EVERYTIME I PASSED..I MISS HIM SO MUCH!! I KNOW THAT HE IS IN HEAVEN WITH HIS BEAUTIFUL WIFE MARY..GOD BLESS BOTH OF YOU..LOVE''JOSIE...

cameron small

August 31, 2009

hi shirley went to washington with you . in biology 1972 cameron small sorry about your daddy best to you always 6024995208

Dori

March 27, 2008

Mr. Long, You made the American dream possible for many families. My family was one of them. We moved into our new JFL home in 1958 - my elderly mother still lives in that home. I have fond childhood memories of watching it being built with my grandfather, of trips to the TG&Y to buy goldfish, turtles and parakeets, of dance recitals at Maryvale Mall, swimming in the public pool and playing in the parks, and walking to Cartwright School, SVDP School and Maryvale High. Maryvale was a beautiful and friendly community! You brought baseball - our favorite sport! - to the area. Oh, what a wonderful place for so many! GRACIAS, Mr. Long, for having the vision, the desire, the "ganas" to make it happen. May you rest in peace with your beloved wife, and may your family and friends find comfort knowing that you were a truly great man on this earth.

Carole Sabo

March 21, 2008

I had the good fortune to meet Mr. Long when he won an education award and celebrated with then-Cartwright Superintendent Bill Dabb. And my sister lived in one of the homes he built. You can be proud that John F. Long is a major contributor to the success of Arizona and Phoenix. Bless Mr. Long and best wishes to your family.

Eva

March 17, 2008

I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Long and his wife Mary when I worked for Dr. McGee. He is one of the nicest, intelligent, funny, and loving men I have ever met. He was always a delight and always spoke so highly of his loved ones. My condolensences to his family and friends. Though there are no words to ease your pain, know that he is resting in a beautiful place and that he will greet his loved ones when it is their time to join him. May he rest and peace. God Bless you.

Cesar Chavez

March 17, 2008

It is sad to lose a wonderful person like Mr. Long but his legacy will forever live in Arizona history. I met Mr. Long when I was about 9 years old at a breakfast and to actually shake the hand of this man that made Phoenix become what it is today was fascinating. I grew up in a John F. Long home and we still own it, I also went to the school named after him (John F. Long Elementary School) and everytime I pass through Maryvale I am wowed with how one man could create such a development. My condolences go out to the Long family and may Mr. Long rest in peace and live in AZ history FOREVER.

Patricia Taylor

March 15, 2008

To Manya, Tot, and Jake, I'm saddened to hear of your Dads passing. I lost my Mom in Dec. 2005. The loss of a parent is a very painful experience. I know he is rejoicing with God in Heaven now. Your Dad was a very kind,understanding, caring, and generous man. I'll miss him dearly. May God be with you in your time of sorrow. Sincerely, Pat

Melissa Luke

March 14, 2008

I would like to express my condonlences to the family. I'm a friend of Gary Tolmachoff's. I didn't get the opportunity to meet John at Gary's father's funeral, but I did get to see him. I wanted to say thank you for the economy that the housing industry has given out state. I know it sure helped our family. My father and brothers built a lot of John F Long homes! R.I.P.

Diane Miller

March 13, 2008

I would like to offer my condolences to Mr. Long's family. As a 2nd generation native Arizonan, Mr. Long has long been a source of pride for the West Side of Phoenix and the whole state. My family lives in one of the many homes built by Mr. Long and we have personally benefited from his generosity with help for a new roof about 8 years ago. He was also first to contribute to our church at holidays in order to provide food baskets to the needy in our flock. We will miss Mr. Long in the community but we know that his legacy will continue through his family for many generations to come.

Tonya Chernek

March 13, 2008

To Manya and family, I am sorry to hear of your loss. I grew up in a John F. Long house and in fact, my mother still owns it. I went to high school with you and we practiced for pom- pon tryouts at your home on Glendale Avenue. I met your mother, but never your father.I lost my beloved father in 2003 and my mother has Alzheimers disease, and I just wanted to say that I am thinking of you and understand what you are going through. God be with you and your entire family. Sincerely, Tonya Chernek (Dillon)

March 13, 2008

We cannot always see the sparrow singing, but if we listen with our heart, we can hear his song.

deidra

March 11, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss Please know that God cares for your loss also In the scriptures at Isaiah 61:2 it says he will comfort all mourning ones

Evelyn Jordan

March 11, 2008

The strong, calm man is always loved
and revered. He is like a shade-giving tree in a thirsty land, or a sheltering rock in a strom. You live in our Hearts!

Jason Mendoza

March 11, 2008

Thank you Mr. Long for all you have done in the Maryvale Community and Maricopa County. Your name will live on forever.

Enobong Etuk

March 10, 2008

A great man, a man of vision. May your soul rest in peace.

Donna Maher

March 10, 2008

We have lost someone who truly cared about the people around him. As a teacher at John F. Long Elementary for the past 24 years I have personally seen all that he has done for our school and the community. At the end of the school year he would provide watermelon or ice cream for the students. He held honor roll breakfasts for the students and their parents. He recognized students for their character and behavior at luncheons where he always stressed the importance of a good education. He provided many other things for our school, district, and the community. He will be greatly missed by all!

Yvonne Basl

March 10, 2008

Mr. Long & Family,
Mr. long you were the kindness man. I was born @ Maryvale hospital when it was one level. I grew up in Maryvale & went Andalucia all 8 yrs. My father hauled many ,many block to Mr. Long via Superlite Block. My children went to John F Long School. They were honored every year with a special luncheon Mr. Long put on. He spared no cost for the children. He was down to earth & true. I had also became good friends with his niece Nadya Parks (Tolmachoff). The Long Families did great things for the valley. It will be a major lost for Arizona. Nadya email me Please!
Yvonne Basl

The Carrasco Family

March 10, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Bonnie OHara

March 10, 2008

Yellow lined-paper with blue flair ink!

Mr. Long was in over the weekend and left me some questions. For 13 years I was honored to work for an completely grounded man who cared deeply about his world. He touched my life in so many ways that next to my own father, he was had the most influence on my life.
The Valley is going to feel his loss for years to come. He was a man who would go to the wall on principle and you don't find that anymore. He embodied the image of a "good man".
My thoughts and prays go to Manya, Tot and Jake.

Good night, Mr. Long!

Shirley Wright

March 9, 2008

To The Family of Mr. Long,
I want to send my deepest sympathy to you all for the loss of your loved one and also to say many people are greatful for the things he did for the community & What he did for others. God bless you & your Family for your Loss.

Mike Casey

March 8, 2008

Mr. Long,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country when you served with the U.S. Army Air Forces in Europe during WW II with the 15th Air Force which the 456th BG was a part of. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Steve Mora

March 8, 2008

Mr. Long, I kind of miss seeing you in my section 104 at Maryvale Baseball Park when you come over to see the Milwaukee Brewers every spring training. This is my eighth year working the games and every year you came into section 104 to watch the games which you seemed to enjoy in that beautiful baseball park that you had built. This is the tenth year for the St. Vincent De Paul parish volunteers that have worked the games for the Brewers and we thank you for making that possible. Thank you for your service to our country and also for the John F. Long home that we have enjoyed many years in the Andalucia District.

Steve F. Mora
Senior Vice Commander
Honor/Color Guard
American Legion Post 41, Phoenix

rocky lenon

March 7, 2008

You do not know me and I never meet John F Long but I always heard his name and always heard great stories about him. Everytime we drove by his house my parents would tell me stories about how great of a man he was. I am truly sorry for your loss and I will be praying for your family. He will always be a legend in Arizona and his name will always live on.

Joyce Tunks

March 7, 2008

Dear family of Mr. Long: I lived in Longhaven West, which Mr. Long built for his mother's retirement. B52 sat reserved even at the date I had to move. Mr. Long treated all of us like family - he provided ham and turkey for holidays, provided seats at the new Maryvale Ballpark for a monthly drawing for us residents. I had the privilege to visit his offices on Camelback. My! His whole career he ran his conglomeration from manufactured homes made into an office complex that is still 'his' office. For a physically small gentleman John F. Long had a enormous vision, gigantic heart and remained a friendly warm person to all. When I entered his offices on Camelback, I was in awe that such a great man was completely satisfied to operate from such a humble building - while other 'great' pioneers of our Valley had huge new office buildings. There could be no greater example of a true Christian than what John F. Long presented to all of us. To your family - peaceful hearts.
J.E.T.

Carol Doyle

March 7, 2008

As a long time Phoenix resident, the name, John F Long, was a common one. Little did I know that as a RN I would care for him in his later years. I was honored to know him personally after knowing his reputation all these many many years. God Bless.

James Attebery

March 7, 2008

My condolences to the Long family. John was such an outstanding person. Much has been and will be written about his community building and innovation. But there was much, much more. He was a man of principle and was resolute in fighting for what he thought was right. I knew and worked with John in the capacity of City Engineer while he was developing and serving on the Phoenix City Council. He always treated people respectfully although he always knew where he was headed and how he was going to get there. About twice a year he would find time to visit the engineering office and sit with me for a few moments. he always had a "message" of some sort...and always for my own good.
I will always have fond memories of John Long.

Jim Attebery

Lula Rose Long

March 7, 2008

Buba.......
My brother
My Mentor
My Idol
My Love......here & in the next realm.

From me,
Your loving sister!
(P.S.Today would have been Mom's birthday.....Give her a hug for me)
xo

Geneve Canez

March 7, 2008

My dad, Ruben Canez, worked with Mr. Long when he started the Maryvale area. He worked with him 5 yrs and i guess you could say it started him on his career. My dad is a current owner and a lot of what he learned he learned working on John F. Long homes. I remember passing by his home years later as an adult and loved to see the mules/donkeys grazing. He seemed like a man who would live forever, it will be sad to pass by his home and know that he is no longer there. But his memory and work will live on. My sympathy to his family in this most sorrowful time. I only hope that the memories he made outweighs the pain of his loss.

Sylvia

March 7, 2008

I am sorry for you great lost. I will hold you in my prayers
Sylvia

Fran Hernandez

March 6, 2008

To the Long family, For many years now and across many miles away, we always heard great stories about Mr. Long and knew he was very giving, as he gave to us during our time of sadness and losses. Now, we are sadden to hear of Mr. Long's passing. I am sure the great stories will continue to be told to the Angels above by Mr. Long himself. May God grant all the family strength during this time of sadness.

Jessica Vega

March 6, 2008

Mr Long did so much for all of us in the maryvale area. He will be greatly missed by everyone . Our Sympathy goes to his family.

maria . Whitehead

March 6, 2008

We lost a giant of a man. He did so much for Maryvale. He will be greatly missed He gave jobs to my daughters, He did alot for the homless.

Mary Larsen

March 5, 2008

John F Long set an example for all of us to follow. He cared about community and stepped up to the plate in a quiet but deliberate manner. My sympathy goes out to his family and my thanks goes out to him for a life well lived.

FRANCISCO MADERA

March 5, 2008

My husband work for MR. LONG a long time always was kind ,had a big heart. will never forget him.
may he rest in peace.

Babbi Longo

March 5, 2008

Long Family-- You have my deepest sympathy for your loss. I remember Mr. Long from school, he personally paid for several field trips my class went on. He was a wonderful person. He will be greatly missed. His kindness and generosity will be remembered for a long while.

Bobby Deneke

March 5, 2008

Mr. Long, I was raised in one of the homes you built. It was an awesome place to live and the neighborhood was a great place to grow up in. My parents never had a problem with any part of our John F. Long home. You set a standard and you've left behind a monument for builder's to follow. Although I never knew you, I knew of the fruit of your work and it was very good, sir. God bless you and your family.

Richard/Gayellen Cooper

March 4, 2008

My wife and I spent much of our teen years in the west valley, with both of attending Trevor Browne high school. While a senior at Trevor I was given the chance to go to Washington DC for a "Close Up" school trip. I attend all the fund raisers and worked hard but my family could no way pay for my trip. Mr. Long hearing about out efforts stepped up and payed for my whole trip, as long as I did not tell any of the other students. I would find out much later not only did he pay for my trip but he also helped in securing funds for some of the other students. Only one rule, no one could any one else. This was the type of man he was. He did what needed to be done and never thought about what it cost. He did very good in life but he also made the life of other very good. I pray that he knew Jesus because only God can give him the rewards he deserves. To the family I am sorry for your loss and to the west valley, city and state you have truly loss a great man. HE WILL BE MISSED IN MANY WAYS.

Joelle Gruden-Messling

March 4, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. I worked for Mr. Long as his assistant and the things he taught me every day were priceless. To witness the joy his kids and grandkids brought to him as well as the love he had for Mary is something I will never forget. He always gave unconditionally of his time and love as well as wanting to make Arizona a better place for everyone.

Juan & Maria Gutierrez

March 4, 2008

My family and I have enjoyed our John F. Long home for the past 20 years, I always think of Mr. Long and the great job he did in developing Maryvale. Thank you!

Sheryl Goettl-Blanton

March 3, 2008

REST IN PEACE JOHN....GO WITH GOD...YOU WILL BE MISSED..

Mary A. McAfee Lawrence

March 3, 2008

We Lived in Maryvale 20 years, and I attended Maryvale High, I loved our Home and had many happy times in our John F. Long House. Mr. Long will be missed by many family's in the Maryvale Area.

Angie Hernandez (Garcia)

March 3, 2008

Manya and family - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Your dad was an icon in the valley and will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.

Paul Siau

March 3, 2008

My Grandparents Ann Mcneill and Richard McNeill lived there in Maryvale since 1956 And my Mom and i and my sister attended Andalucia way back when Your in our thoughts and prayers Long family

Robyn Towles-Westover

March 3, 2008

I grew up in the Maryvale area. My father help build the houses there. He often spoke of Mr. Long and his generosity. He was a great man and will be missed by the community. His name will be remembered as one of Arizona's greatest invisionaries.

Angie

March 3, 2008

My deepest sympathy goes out to his family. He was truly a good man and will be missed. He was a legend in his own time.

May the Lord give the family strength and comfort during this time of sorrow.

Ellis David,

March 3, 2008

GOD BE WITH YOU MR. John F. Long, My Wife Maridell and I Thank you for our home, to raise our children in and for the schools they were able to attend. Although we do not live there anylonger, we will always remember your Love and Passion for what you have done for so many people in Maricopa County. Again, Sir! GOD BLESS YOU and the Long,Family. (THANK YOU ALL, FOR THE MANY GREAT CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY MEMORIES AND BIRTHDAYS WE WERE ABLE TO SHARE IN ONE OF YOUR HOMES) Mr. / Mrs. Ellis & Maridell David, Family.

ECC

March 3, 2008

His greatness of a loving and great humanitorian will always be remembered. His has received his crown with many many jewels. God Bless his family and know that his contribution here on earth will live on forever. Thank you John F. Long

James Deibler

March 3, 2008

I will miss John F. Long, You are good for the community in the West Valley, Maryvale and around the Valley.

Don Dailey

March 2, 2008

My sincere condolences to the family.
I started my Real Eatate Carreer as a salesman for John F. Long 49 years ago in Maryvale. Later in the general Real Estate business in the 60's I used to Advertise that the only man to have sold more Maryvale homes that me, was John F. Long.
No other deeloper had the sense of Community that John F. Long had. John
was in a league far above any other developers.
John F. Long, a man with vision, honor and one hell of a man.
Thank you JFL for giving me the chance and working at John F. Long's and I still look back at the great time I had in the wonderful years working for you.

Don Dailey

Tammy Alexander

March 2, 2008

I grew up in Maryvale, and my husband's and my first married home was a John F. Long home. I have wonderful memories of growing up in Maryvale when it was a beautiful, family area. Thank you Mr. Long for your commitment to our community. You will be missed!

Bonnie Nebe

March 2, 2008

My prayers are with the family. John F.Long was a great man. I too have never met Mr.Long but I was fortunate enough to have moved out to Arizona from Minnesota in '69 or '70 and my parents bought our home on 56th Ave and Campbell Ave. I went to school at John F Long Elementry and Desert Sands Jr High, I spent my High School years at Trevor Browne. I was honored to work, along with my Mother, at Maryvale Hospital for 23 years. We were proud to live in Maryvale and knew that John F.Long was a man to respect. If not for Him our childhood would not be the same. He created a great community for us to grow up in. Thank you Mr.Long. My deepest sympathy to your family. Sincerly Bonnie Nebe (Formaly VanSteenwyk, Baker.)

David B

March 1, 2008

John F long was a one-of-a-kind man for all times. There will never be another like him, no doubt the greatest contributor to the betterment of the Valley of the Sun.

Butler Dairy Farms

March 1, 2008

Our condolences to the family and friends of John F. Long. We are also pioneers of Arizona, and our paths crossed on many occasions, He truly was a person of wisdom and great developer> Thanks for the efforts and contributions your family has made in the Arizona! From Our family to yours with deepest sympathy!! Butler Family

Cheryl Parsons

March 1, 2008

My condolences to all of the family and friends that new this wonderful man. Are family has also been in the Dairy Business, we owned land many years ago which Mr. Long wished to purchase. We were all neighbors. I am very sorry for your loss, but so happy that he was such a great developer. Being a native of Arizona, I am proud to say I went to every school starting with John F. Long, John Wesley Powell, Desert Sands, And did graduate Maryvale High 1978. Our family's were friends with Mr. Long as pioneers of this state may his memory live on in the ones he touched so dearly. Thanks for being there for the West Valley, and doing so many kind things for the community. So much to say yet so little time. "Honor" him celebrate the man that left behind and saw our state through not just good times but bad. He was won of the best, knowing of him personally for over 43 yrs. I can say 'HE DID MAKE A DIFFERENCE. May we remember that once again man, who developed the greater part of the West Valley!!!!!!!!

Esther Briseno

March 1, 2008

Here is a man who put smiles on childrens faces for believing in them. My daughter and I were honored to have met him when she was a student at John F. Long Elementary. He had breakfast with all the honor roll students and then gave each of them $10.00. To this day, I remember the smile each one of those children had, not only for the $10.00, but for having someone else, besides their parents & teacher, say "Good job and continue to do your best". She is now a teacher there, and till this day, remembers him very fondly. God bless you, Mr. Long, I hope you knew how much love and joy you brought to so many children and adults alike. You will truly be missed. I also would like to say that my heart and prayers go out to your family. Your presence will always be felt in the Maryvale area.

Leslie Maynard

March 1, 2008

Thank you Mr. Long!
You were never just a “girl in the office” to Mr. Long, and He was
NEVER just an owner boss to any of us!
When it rains, I will think of Mr. Long closing the office so we could get home before the roads were bad.
At lunch, I will think of his place at the table and his wonderful stories…
At birthday parties, his great sense of humor and joy over dessert.
At work, his depth of understanding, caring and insight.
At Thanksgiving and Christmas the joy and care he took in giving to the churches in the valley for the needy.
I know I was not alone in my awe of him and he treated us with a personal kindness and respect.
I love you Mr. Long, Farewell for now…Leslie

Michael McCracken

March 1, 2008

My first home purchased in 1967 was a John F. Long home. He was a great pioneer and developer of Arizona. RIP Mr. Long.

judy welch

March 1, 2008

i pass the house on indian school everyday & it gives me such peace to see the green fields & burros, I hope it will be there for many yrs to come just as you gave so much to the community. To the family, so sorry for your loss.

Michael Edwards

March 1, 2008

On behalf of Lynnhaven Community Church I want to thank you for the land you provided for our church over 50 years ago. The property and building continue in use as a church and daycare center (Hidden Treasures). We have been told that the name "Lynnhaven" came from one of your children.

Michael H. Edwards, Pastor
Lynnhaven Community Church

Edward Wise

March 1, 2008

Class with a capital "C".

Mary Hill-Williamson

March 1, 2008

Jake
You and I went to High School together and I'm so sorry for your loss. Your father was a pillar of the community and will not be forgotten

Jim and Nola Manganaro

March 1, 2008

our hearts were saddened when the news came of your death, may your family have the comfort of the Holy Ghost with them at this time of loss.

Sheryl Goettl-Blanton

March 1, 2008

Rest in peace and go with God John..Thank You for everything...

Danny & Betty Kunzelman

February 29, 2008

To Jake, & the Long Family. We are sorry for the loss of your Father.He was loved by most everyone who knew him! He did many things for so many people and was very loved by all. May God & Peace be with all.

Dave & Linda Dobash

February 29, 2008

For the last 30 years, John F. Long was one of the kindest and honest person, I've every done work for.
My family and I are greatful to have known him and his wonderful family.
Our thoughts and prayers, are with you Jake, Tot, Monia
Love,
Dave, Linda, Nicole Dobash

Mellisa Maynard

February 29, 2008

Whenever I came to visit my mom he always had a smile on his face which made you want to smile right back.Always want to see how you were doing. He was such a great person.

Susie Damiani

February 29, 2008

The Damiani Family would like to send our most sincere condolences to Jake and his family on the loss of a wonderful man, John F. Long. We have all felt the love and high character of this man and want the family to know that you are all in our closest thoughts and prayers. Be proud and know that he is resting in peace with our Heavenly Father.

Richard Baehre

February 29, 2008

I have known Mr. Long since the early 50's. My father, Fred Baehre, worked for him and in later days was Mr. Longs Executive Vice President. I rember a bill board mounted on telephone poles stretching west from 51st avenue for a full block advertising his homes. He had live models at each model home, a disc jockey playing music on loud speakers, and a playground with supervision for children, while parents look at at the models. He really knew how to do it up right. He built a home which young families could afford. I have a lot of admiration for him, He was never one who gave the impression that he was better than anyone else. We need more like him.

Joel Baker

February 29, 2008

I have lived in the west valley all of my life so far and always the name of John F Long has been known. The wonderful things he did for the west valley and the state will not be forgotten. My wife and I will miss him.

Mike Greenlief

February 29, 2008

Jake & Tot,

Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Your father's passing is an end to an era in Valley history. He was a man of compassion and community, and I am proud to have met him if only for a brief moment. I only wish there were more men like him today.

JOSEPH CABRAL

February 29, 2008

You were too kind for this crazy world. Ive read and heard about you for almost fifty years. So long John MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND FAMILY.

leonard street

February 29, 2008

I never knew him, but I know he was a very caring person. I have been in Phoenix most of my life and I remember when he built Maryvale. So sad a nice man like him is gone. May he rest in peace and God bless him.

Paula (Hubbs) Cohen

February 29, 2008

In 1958, my parents purchased a John F. Long home on the corner of 49th Drive and Clarendon, south of Indian School. I remember Maryvale as a wonderful place to grow up, filled with working class families, green grassy lawns, big trees and well-tended homes. I went to Maryvale High, near Marivue Park, spent summers at the Maryvale pool and my nephews were born at Maryvale Hospital. Thank you Mr. Long for all you did for the Valley, not just the west side, either. A great humanitarian.

Dan Nolan

February 29, 2008

John F. Long was a great man to the community. May he rest in peace.

Mary Dahnk

February 29, 2008

After my father served our country for 20 years in the U.S. Army, he needed a warm, sunny place to retire to since he had rheumatoid arthritis. He and my mother had both passed through Phoenix during the 1930's on their way to California. Some friends had recently moved into a John F. Long home in Maryvale and urged my parents to also come to Phoenix and retire. Our home in Starlight Park was the first and only home that my parents ever owned, and they loved it. I have the privilege of teaching at John F. Long Elementary School, and when I got to meet Mr. Long personally, I had goosebumps. He was a legend for anyone who ever lived in Maryvale for any length of time. I told him that I grew up in a Lexington model and that, if it hadn't been for him, my parents could never have afforded our home since they had six kids and very little money. He grinned and said, "I made quite a bit of money off of that model. I just wanted to help the men coming back after the war." He was a great and humble man, and I am proud to say that my sister and I still live in that same pink-and-white Lexington in Starlight Park to this very day.

Mike Ramsey

February 29, 2008

God Bless Mr. Long. He single handidly made the west valley what it is today

Mike and Wendy Enos

February 29, 2008

A giving, caring, decent man, he made such an impact on our family. Our sons attended John F. Long School and received several awards that he personally contributed. We have lived in a John F. Long home for 21 years. I met him several times over the past twenty years, and he and his wife Mary were lovely people. May he rest in peace knowing that he truly made a difference in our community.

Virginia Kane

February 29, 2008

I moved to Arizona with my family in 1963. We lived in a John F. Long home and I attended Maryvale High School. Through the years I have had the opportunity to see the result of Mr. Long's generosity to the community. The legacy he leaves is truly exemplary. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered in our hearts.

Nancy Parsons

February 29, 2008

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

LINDASUE SILVA

February 29, 2008

I remember when Mary & John would come to "Maryvale" hospital for her oncology treatments, she would always tell me the story of how the name of the "Maryvale" housing & neighborhood came about...Of course her name being "Mary", John wanted to name it after his loving wife...but he wanted to name it "Maryville", well Mary didn't quite like that name, so it became "Maryvale"...such a lovely couple...may they find peace & happiness together again with the lord to guide them. My condolences to the family, you should be very very proud of your father & your mother...through their efforts many many lives have been touched. I will always drive by the "little" house on Indian school with the lake and remember them with love. They were like family to the staff of Maryvale Hospital. May they rest in peace.
LindaSueSilva
[email protected]

Catherine

February 29, 2008

We appreciate all of the things you have done for our community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Mark Fiscus

February 29, 2008

My sympathy to the family.

I moved to Maryvale in the early seventies, attended Maryvale High School and then worked for three years at Maryvale Mall in the transformation from an outdoor mall to an indoor mall.

Mr. Long's kindness will be remembered.

Jean Peters

February 29, 2008

My sympathies to his family, who have lost a really admirable man that made homes affordable for hundreds of families, like ours, and who always had the welfare of his community in his mind. The loss to the city is made enormous by his passing.

Catherine Mastrangelo

February 29, 2008

John F. Long was a true team player, a true gentleman, and as honest as the day is long. He contributed so much to the improvements & amenities in the Westside of the Valley. He & his spirit will live on as a legacy. He'll me missed but never forgotten.

Sharon Richardson

February 29, 2008

I was Mr. Long's grandson's pre-school teacher in the 90's. Danny Long was a great kid!! Danny went to Rancho Solano Private school. As a native of Arizona, Mr. Long is a legacy that many of us will remember.

Betty (Cornwell) Vanukoff

February 29, 2008

Mr Long-Thank you for all of your loving ways extended to me and my family (brother Phil Snider and father Tom Cornwell). You leave a legacy beyond words. My prayers to Jake, Tot and Manya. God bless you all.

Judy Morrison/Reed

February 29, 2008

What a tremendous loss. I moved to AZ in 1958, went to John F Long grade school, lived in a John F Long home in Maryvale and went to Maryvale High. He was and is a great inspiration of what one can accomplish with a small dream. What an impact he made in this great community. You will be missed by many.

Robert

February 29, 2008

Mr. Long, thank you for all of your hardwork and dedication to the community. You will be missed.

Cashmira Riechman

February 29, 2008

You will be missed Mr. Long, Thanks for all the great years in Maryvale.

George Baltar

February 29, 2008

I.m sorry to hear of Mr. Longs passing, as I was raised in a John Long home in Phx. My prayers are with his family.

CJ Hoyt

February 29, 2008

I grew up in a house in Maryvale, and grew up in the neighborhood. John F Long is a legend and an example of what we should all strive to be. I thank you Mr Long for creating the WEST SIDE of Phoenix .

Holly Hudak/Yates

February 29, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Betty Ulloa

February 29, 2008

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I lived in Maryvale for over 50 years. If I could move back I would. When I see his picture he looks alot like my father before he passed away. May he rest in peace.

David Long Family

February 29, 2008

RIP John Long. You will be much missed in this community.My family will always remember our home built in 1960 where we lived for over 36 years and it is still the best there is.
Thank you.

Linda Armijo

February 29, 2008

Jake and Peggy,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.

Jean Woodring

February 29, 2008

To Tot, Manya and Jake I send my deepest sympathy. You lost a great Father and a 'Man of the People'. He will be missed! I can't thank him enough for his generosity he gave me in my time of need! I'm still in one of his homes and probably will be for life! He had a great sense of humor and a zest for life!
P.S. Thanks for helping down off the ladder!

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