Search by Name

Search by Name

JONATHAN CHRISTOPHER LONG

JONATHAN CHRISTOPHER LONG obituary

FUNERAL HOME

Morley Bedford Funeral Services

159 Eglinton Avenue West

Toronto, Ontario

JONATHAN LONG Obituary

LONG, JONATHAN CHRISTOPHER April 3, 1958 - April 20, 2018 Jon passed away suddenly on April 20, 2018 in Toronto at the age of 60 from coronary artery disease. He will be sadly missed by his many friends and family. Jon is survived by his parents Jack and Carol, his children Aaron and Victoria, his siblings Steven, Catherine, Jeffrey, Julianne and Jennifer. He was predeceased by his wife Laurel. He graduated from York University with a major in economics and worked at Long & McQuade Musical Instruments for over 30 years. He married Laurel in 1984. Unfortunately she passed away in 2003. Jon was a major figure in the Toronto music community and touched the lives of many, as a drummer and as a promoter. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 27th at 3 p.m. at Grace Church on-the-Hill, 300 Lonsdale Road, followed by a reception in the church hall.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Toronto Star on Apr. 25, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for JONATHAN LONG

Sponsored by anonymous.

Not sure what to say?





86 Entries

Paul Whiteman

August 8, 2023

Sorry it took so long to find this. In your latter days I wanted to visit you like I did so many times at the store but I never seemed to find out where you were. You are my friend and always will be! Sleep in peace with your wonderful Laurel.

Rexford Rathgeber

September 29, 2020

I worked for Jon in the early 1980s and it was a delight. His father and their business plus my being there with them and all the memorable people I met and worked with were an integral part of my life, plain and simple. Like Ellington's band ( which I later worked with sans The Duke) it was as if we were hired for character more than other considerations, but that may be an afterthought regarding my innumerable failings, for which I'm trying to find a reason for not being fired!
Sorry I learned of Jon's passing so late but I've been overseas and so it goes.
With heart felt sorrow,
Rex Rathgeber
[email protected]

John Micka

October 5, 2019

Maybe a little late, was trying to get a hold of Jon. Came across this. I'm shattered. R.I.P brother. I'll miss you.

Barry Lyons

September 30, 2019

Wonderful man with a caring heart. Genuinely interested in people and without any pretenses. Enjoy eternity, we will all see you there at some time.

I was so blessed and honoured with your love. Your beautiful heart and soul will be forever remebered andforever loved. Rest in Peace DARLING!<3

Sue

May 15, 2018

Kirk Devereux

May 6, 2018

Just learned of this today. I am so sad. Jon was a great friend as was his brother Steve. The entire Long family has been very good to me and, of course, the entire music community over the years. I send my love and condolences from my home near NYC to all of Jon's family and fellow friends.

May 2, 2018

Absolutely gobsmacked. Join was such a gentle and kind soul. So genuine. A great supporter of the music scene in Toronto. Best friend any musician could have. So proud to have known him. My deepest condolences to all his loved ones. - Cora

Julia Day

May 2, 2018

Jon's passing moves me deeply. I've barely seen him in decades, yet my eyes keep welling up with tears. We were children together, first cousins, and what I realize is how much I loved him then, running around barefoot, and even now. I regret that while so naturally bonded as kids, we lost touch in adulthood. I read the stories and tributes to Jon's kindness and generosity, and his musical contributions to many who had the privilege of knowing him much better than I. My heart-felt condolences to all who grieve and especially to Jon's beautiful family, his children, siblings and parents. Your presence in my life has touched me more profoundly than I ever imaged, dear cousin Jon. Bless you and thank you. (Here is a photo of us together on Grandma's knee)

Scott Macleod

May 1, 2018

My deepest condolences and prayers to the Long family.

Dougal Bichan

April 30, 2018

I am so sad and sorry and shocked that Jon is gone. There is nothing else to say. My regards and regrets to all the family. He will be sorely missed.

Taylor Guitars

April 30, 2018

From the Taylor Guitars family we offer our sincerest condolences and love. Through music we know the memory of Jonathan will live on, and if there is anything we can do for the Long Family, please let us know. All the best and prayers.

Evelyn Harper (Long)

April 29, 2018

My sincere sympathy to the whole Long family. Although you are my cousins I have not met you all as yet. Jack's father, my Uncle Ed was my dad's oldest and most adored brother. When we lived in Grimsby we with our young boys visited Uncle Ed and Aunt Dora frequently and always had such a special time with them.

David Markham

April 28, 2018

Such a nice guy who was always sincerely interested in how I was doing. Very sad to hear he is gone. My condolences to the Long Family especially his kids.

The Komisar Family

April 28, 2018

Dear Jack and Carol and family,
At this difficult time in your life, we pray that God will grant you the serenity and peace that you need to get through this. Stay strong and know that you are remembered in our thoughts and prayers.

Gord Dawe

April 27, 2018

A great friend to the musicians of Toronto...and a generally nice guy.
He will be missed.

Eleanor Rodrigo

April 27, 2018

Dear Julie and family it is with deepest sympathies and my prayers are with you all at this time in your sorrow love you all.

Scot Buchanan

April 27, 2018

I always enjoyed talking to Jon. My sincere sympathies to his family.

Connie Rodgers (Drossos)

April 27, 2018

Such fond and fun memories working with Jon at Bloor Street. I'm so saddened to hear this news. May you Rest In Peace, Jon. Deepest condolences to the Long family.

Marc Costanzo

April 27, 2018

Thanks Jon for all the times you were there when I really needed help. Lots of love to the Long Family.

Brian and Wendy Maxwell

April 27, 2018

To me, Jon was a very gentle and good-hearted man and our lives intertwined in this way. When I came off the road (with my band The Electric Cats aka EC), I met Laurel through the NOW paper and we formed a duo, playing in coffee houses around Toronto. I regarded Laurel as the little sister I never had and she had such a good heart. One day, we saw an ad "R & B band forming and looking for a keys player and female vocalist". So we went to this house (Jon's family home) and met Jon and the other future members of the band, Left Field. Jon asked me "EC...what do you do for a living"? and I said "nothing yet". He suggested I meet him downtown (at L & M) where I eventually got hired into the keyboard dept. Jon always called me "EC". One day, Jon and Laurel came to me and said they were in love...and in my eyes, they were perfect for each other. Then...after a few months of working at L & M, my future wife (Wendy) came in to rent a keyboard.
Wendy and I were quite saddened at this recent news but feel (now) that Jon and Laurel are once again together, sharing love and harmony. Our deepest condolences go out to all the family and friends as well as those whose lives were also very much influenced by this wonderful man.

Wally Bieniawski

April 27, 2018

I have fond memories of meeting Jon at the store on Bloor St. and getting into discussions about life and Gretsch drums.
You will be missed. My sincere condolences to Jon's children and his entire family.

David Walsh

April 27, 2018

My deepest sympathies to the Long family. I have missed Jon's presence at Long and Mcquade Bloor and was deeply saddened by the news of his passing.

Jon, Aaron, Ginger, Louise P., Mississauga, April 10, 2010

Bruce Walker

April 27, 2018

Jon at Johnny V gig, Etobicoke, December 12, 2008

Bruce Walker

April 27, 2018

Jon at Johnny V gig, Etobicoke, December 12, 2008

Bruce Walker

April 27, 2018

Jon, we had great chats and great musical times. Really going to miss that. My very deepest sympathies to Victoria and Aaron and the rest of the Long family.

john fraser

April 27, 2018

Heaven has a new Angel.... goes by the name.... Jon

Shine On You Crazy Diamond

Brenda Carol

April 27, 2018

Thanks Jon for all that you have taught and shared with me. Your insight and unconditional trust will be so missed forever. My condolences to your children and your family at this very sad time. Sincerely, brenda

Sharron Katz

April 27, 2018

Jon, you were and will always be incredibly special to me. I have so much I would love to say to you- but I feel you knew you were loved. Thank you for being a part of my life. With Love, Sharron

Eddie K

April 27, 2018

The Great Jon Long!! My heart is aching to have lost a great friend like you!
You will be missed by everyone who came into contact with you!
You can rest in peace!
Love you man

Skeets Mesquita

April 27, 2018

I will always be thankful for your trust and honesty. One day we'll have those chicken wings together. RIP Jonny Bongo.

April 27, 2018

Goodbye Jon ,I love you, your friend always, Superjoe

Claire Lewis (Savage)

April 27, 2018

My friend Cathy, and her twin brother Jon.
Being a young teenager at the Long's house meant much activity with a large family, music, fun and laughter.
Jon was always an extra gentle and caring person.
Many years passed and old acquaintances separated with life, when I visited Jon at Long & McQuade after his wife Laurel's passing. Although greatly saddened, Jon spoke so highly of his children and their talents. I sensed a very responsible dad. As of late, I would see Jon often walking along Bloor St or Roncy, appearing reflective and taking in warm summer days. I am just one of the many lucky ones who crossed your path Jon. You will be missed.
My condolences to the Long family.

Jon, drumming with Nightflite, circa 2001

Louise Peacock

April 27, 2018

I am saddened by Jon's untimely passing, but I have hope that he is at last free to join Laurel. Jon was a wonderful friend. He will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him. R.I.P. old buddy, we love you.

April 26, 2018

I'm so sorry to hear the news of Jon's passing. He was in my grade 6 class at Brown School (and I knew his sister Cathy too). I always thought he had the nicest, brown eyes...My condolences to the family~

Ray Himbeault

April 26, 2018

It has been my privilege to have spent most of my adult life working for the Long family. I was very saddened to hear the news of Jon's passing. My family and I send our deepest sympathy to all of the Long family.

The Himbeault family.

"R.I.P. Yes now time for an awesome soul unto their place" - Bruce Palait

April 26, 2018

Sally OConnor

April 26, 2018

My heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Long family, and all who knew and loved Jon. May you find peace and comfort at this difficult time ❤

Bill Zee

April 26, 2018

RIP

John Gilley

April 26, 2018

Jon, (the late) Eli Donath, Ralph Detko and myself were part of something called "The Drinking Band" 40 years ago. Saturday nights at Jon's. Some of the most fun times I ever had. Through the years we went through some important times together. He gave a band I was in (Blue Sunday) our first big break 31 years ago We were always real good pals. I'll miss you brother. Say Hi to Laurel and Eli after you get settled in...

April 26, 2018

Erin Oneill

April 26, 2018

Jack & Carol, you and your whole beautiful family have my deepest condolences. Peace and love, Erin Haydn O'Neill

Saad Saidullah

April 26, 2018

4:45 PM, 26th April 2018, Canada;
16:45 Hours,25.03.2018,Toronto,Canada.


Obituary of Jonathan Christopher LONG
who died on April 20, 2018 in the STAR, page GT 6, Toronto STAR edition dated Wednesday, 25 April 2018:

Condolence(s).

Condolence(s)(ES)s on the death of JON

LONG/ Jonathan Christopher Long (born

3 April 1958) to his family (-members)

kith & kin, relations/relatives,

friends, supporters and admirers in

the entertainment industry (in Canada).

Truly,

Saad

Sa'ad A. Saidullah; Notary - Canada +

5:06 PM, 26th April 2018,Canada;
17:06 Hours, Thursday, 26.04.2018, Toronto, Ontario/ ON(T)Canada.

Randy Muise

April 26, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to Jon's family. I had the pleasure of knowing both Jon and Laurel back in the early 80s. I joined their first band called "Left Field' and we played many fun gigs and became lifelong friends. Jon helped so many musicians through the years by believing in them and backing them with his heart. Both Jon and Laurel were passionate about their music and absolutely wonderful, kind, loving souls who will be missed dearly

Brock Fricker

April 26, 2018

My condolences to the Long family. Jon was a good friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.

John Combaluzier

April 26, 2018

I have known Jon since Grade 8. We used to play air hockey and go to his cottage. We played in bands together and went to the same high school and University. I knew Laurel and played in bands with her. I worked at Long McQuade also with Jon. Since I moved to New Brunswick we have not been as close but my memories with Jon were for a lifetime.My sincerest sympathy to Jon's parents, brothers, sisters, and his 2 children. John Combaluzier

Natasha UrbanAngel

April 26, 2018

I am deeply saddened and want to offer my deepest condolences to the family and to those nearest and dearest to him. He was a gentleman with a kind, gentle and generous heart. He truly loved music with all his heart and it flowed in his veins and through him. Not only could he play the drums but he also knew how to teach the beats... how he loved music and musicians and went out of his way to help them whenever he could. One of our Earth Angels has left and returned home. What a sad loss to our world but especially the music community that he loved so well. Thank you for all your kindness and generosity of sharing your vast knowledge. Jon you will be missed but you will be in our hearts forever.... one beat at a time. Know you made a difference.

FTD® Loving Light™ Dishgarden

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Karyn

April 26, 2018

I will always Remember Jon as a Kind and Gentle Soul. It is Sad News that Jon passed away so suddenly. Jon will be missed.

Tony Morrone

April 26, 2018

My condolances to the Long family. Jon will be missed by many musicians in Toronto.

Adam Solomon

April 26, 2018

So sorry to hear about the passing of Brother Jon Long. He was a great and true friend, and very kind and understanding when dealing with musicians. It is because of Jon that Long & McQuade felt like another home to me. He always called out "Professor!" when I walked into the store. Rest in peace.

Rick Donmoyer

April 26, 2018

So many good memories of great encounters over many years, with family and music dominating every conversation! My soul deep salute to a man of great character!

Wayne Cudney

April 26, 2018

Jon I Loved your spirit & passion, Thank You for being a Good Friend, My Condolences to Aaron & Victoria,The entire Long Family & Jon`s many associates & friends!! Respect The Beat, Wayne Cudney *soulchamp!

Harry Sorrell

April 26, 2018

Jon ,thanks for everything play on

Jeff Shewchuk

April 26, 2018

After touching so many people's hearts...Jon...Its time for all those hearts to touch you.

Annalise

April 25, 2018

Heartfelt condolences to Jon's children, family and friends affected by the huge loss of this great yet humble, kind man with an upbeat personality. Jon was such a big supporter of musicians and I count myself as one of them. We played some gigs together on New Year's Eve 2012. He will greatly be missed.

michael keith

April 25, 2018

Bless you as you continue the journey my brother.

Jenn Dimarco

April 25, 2018

You are missed.. but your generosity and help in the community will live on forever .

April 25, 2018

RIP Jon... Play on !

Gerry Markman

April 25, 2018

My condolences to the Long family.

James Klein

April 25, 2018

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Jon. Please accept my condolences to the entire Long family and may your grief be alleviated by the wonderful memories of Jon

FTD® Tender Touch™ Standing Spray

James Klein

Sent Flowers

Corinne Orrett (Nast)

April 25, 2018

I got lucky as a kid I got to tag along with my friend Cathy her twin brother Jon, big brother Steve. Jeff, Julie and Jenny would follow. Best of times with the Long family at their cottage. Running in and out of their house in Rosedale.
I'll always remember you Jon and the fun we had
Corinne Orrett (Nast)

Peter Horvath

April 25, 2018

I'm saddened by the news of Jon's passing, he was amongst the finest of human being and will be missed by all who knew him. He was my longest friend and will be sorely missed. Peace and God Bless.

Mangry

April 25, 2018

Mangry

April 25, 2018

Thank you for all you did for all of us you will be truly missed. A true mentor and friend ❤

April 25, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to Jon's family. I had the pleasure of knowing both Jon and Laurel back in the early 80s. I joined their first band called "Left Field' and we played many fun gigs and became lifelong friends. Jon helped so many musicians through the years by believing in them and backing them with his heart. Both Jon and Laurel were passionate about their music and absolutely wonderful, kind, loving souls who will be missed dearly

Jon out and about doing postering

Kevin Porter

April 25, 2018

I wish to express my sincere condolences to the Long family for their devastating loss. Its no secret Jon was a big part of me being able to start a studio in Toronto some 32 years ago. We played together on many occasions and we made several recordings over the years which have become treasured memories. Rest in peace Jon!!

Dennis Brunet

April 25, 2018

Thanks for everything Jon.

Alexandra "lexie" Gibson

April 25, 2018

My deepest sympathy. Jon and my late brother Adrian Egan were friends for decades, and were bandmates in "The Idles". Both are gone too soon. Wishing you peace at this difficult time.

Glenn MacRae

April 25, 2018

I only knew Jon through work, but I could tell by our conversations together that he was a caring and thoughtful person. He loved dealing with and helping people through troubled times. I learned many things about interacting with people from Jon. Sincere condolences to his children and the entire Long family.

JAMES POULOS

April 25, 2018

So sad that he is gone , my condolences to all the Long families , Jim

Topher Stott

April 25, 2018

So sorry to hear of Jon's passing. He was kind and generous to musicians around Toronto and he will be missed.

Danny Marks

April 25, 2018

A kind heart and compassionate soul.

JEFF LAZARE

April 25, 2018

I had the privilege of being Jon's friend for over 40 years. We had so many good times together. Jon's life was not easy but he fought tirelessly to overcome the challenges he faced. This is a terrible loss for so many. My heartfelt condolences to his family and his many, many friends.

Cliff Martin

April 25, 2018

RIP Jon Long, My friend who was always there no matter who!
Had a bigger heart than most of us!
I am saddend, but gladdend by your beautiful soul and love of music and life

April 25, 2018

Sincere and heartfelt condolences at a very difficult time.A gentleman drummer and a kind soul,rest in peace old friend.

Colin Simpson

April 25, 2018

My sincere condolences to Jon's family. We were friends for many years and he was a true champion of the Toronto live music scene. He was an outstanding drummer with a heart of gold.

Pat Axe

April 25, 2018

I've knew Jon for over forty years, we became good friends when his friend Eli Donath RIP had moved into an apartment right under my apartment on Bathurst St. just north of St. Clair. Eli and I Jon loved punk and I liked Blues so needless to say we had stereo wars. and Also I live in a house off Avenue Rd & Eglinton and Jon would be over there a lot. I remember it very well he come over after University classes and hang out. it was around that time he met his with Laurel RIP .who was an amazing lady, whom Jon was head over heals for from day one. I'll miss my old friend whom I was still in contact with every now and then, we get on the phone and talk to each other and catch up.Raise a glass of Diet Coke and say Cheers to a wonderful and extremely Kind Gentle Human Being. May you Rest in peace Jon.

April 25, 2018

I'm sorry to hear of Jon's passing. We went to Glendon together. Condolences to the Long family. Denis Armstrong

Paul Bell

April 25, 2018

Deepest sympathies from the Bell family. Jon was a cherished friend and the kindest of souls.

FTD® Heartfelt Condolences™ Arrangement

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Ralph Detko

April 25, 2018

Jon was a dear friend of mine for 40 years. His passing is a shock. My deepest condolences to the Long family. We have lost a truly unique human being who was loved by all.

Steven Katz

April 25, 2018

My Deepest condolences to a wonderful family on their loss of a great guy!

Carol Spain

April 25, 2018

Ted and I are shocked and saddened by Jon's sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, Carol,Jack, Aaron,Victoria and all my cousins, Jon's brothers and sisters. We love you all!!
I want to mention my mother, Dianne Armstrong. She was so close to you all and always had a warm spot in her heart for Jon.
Fondly your cousin Carol Spain.

Catherine Guy

April 25, 2018

Jon was my twin brother and we had a lot of fun growing up together. We used to play in the water together at the cottage for hours at a time. We never fought and always got along well. Jon never lied as a kid. If he did something, he always owned up to it right away. He always teased me about my taste in music because we liked different styles. However, we both loved music.
His life ended too soon, and he will be greatly missed.

Showing 1 - 86 of 86 results

Memorial Events
for JONATHAN LONG

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Morley Bedford Funeral Services

159 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4R 1A8