Robert James Long

Robert James "Bob" Long was born on January 25, 1933, in Fresno, California, and passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2008, at the age of 75. Bob Long was a well-known local TV news anchor and reporter with KSEE TV for 40 years. Bob Longs early interest in the news began during World War II as he listened to the daily reports on the radio and continued as he worked during high school at KMJ Radio Theatre and at KRDU Radio. Bob attended Roosevelt High School, graduated from Selma High School, and continued his education at Fresno State College with a degree in Radio-TV. During college he worked first at KMJ radio as "Uncle Bob" reading the Sunday comics, and then at KYNO News, where he developed an award winning news program. Bob joined KSEE Channel 24 news in 1962, and was a reporter and news anchor until his retirement in 2002. He is best known for his long running series, "On the Map" that spotlighted historic locations around the Valley . Bob loved learning about the history of communities and sharing it with the people. That love of history led him to complete his Masters Degree in History from California State University, Fresno in 1993. Bob Long was a lifelong member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, serving over two decades as local chapter advisor and holding national office. He also served four years in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Bob volunteered many years with the local Muscular Dystrophy Association and local telethons. In 2006 Bob Long was inducted into the coveted Silver Circle of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for over 25 years of outstanding TV journalism. Bob Long is survived by his younger brother, Tom Long, and his sister-in-law Ruth; and by his two nephews, Jason Long and his wife Perla, and Brian Long and his wife Casey; and three great-nephews. A Memorial Service will be held at Hope Lutheran Church, 364 E. Barstow Ave. in Fresno on Saturday, December 6, 2008, at 3:00 p.m. Since Bob loved his dogs and enjoyed working with animals on the air in "Bob's Buddies", the family requests that any donations be made in his name to the Central California SPCA, 103 S. Hughes Avenue, Fresno, Ca. 93706. LISLE FUNERAL HOME 1605 'L' Street Fresno, Ca. (559)266-0666