Steve Harold De Long

Steve Harold De Long, 79, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012 in Centralia, Wash. He was born Aug. 25, 1932 to Paul and Elsie (Curley) De Long in Lansing, Iowa.

He attended school in McGregor, Iowa and graduated in 1950. Steve enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952 and was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. In 1953 he married the one and only love of his life, Jean Starkey in Marquette, Iowa. Following four years in the Air Force, he farmed in Belmont, Wis., as well as Yuba, Wis. He began his career as a mechanic in Reedsburg, Wis., with International Harvester. After 20 years, he moved from his position as foreman mechanic, to settle in Rochester, Wash., in 1978. Locally, he was employed as a heavy equipment mechanic for Widco until his retirement.

During his lifetime Steve designed and built two of his own residences. He enjoyed motorcycling, R.V. travel and he and Jean shared many wonderful travels including visits to the Grand Ole Opry. Besides time on his boat, perhaps fishing on the Mississippi, he also enjoyed flying his Luscombe airplane as well as snowmobiling. Above all Steve will be remembered for his caring attention to the needs of others, never missing an opportunity to reach out and help.

Survivors include his wife, Jean De Long at home in Rochester; daughters, Vicki Lucht and Pamela De Long both of Centralia; grandchildren, Paula Lucht and Stephanie, Kevin and Tommy De Long all of Centralia; and great grandchildren, Steven,-Johnny, Erick and Austin Lucht.

He is preceded in death by his three brothers Leland, Elvin and Melvin De Long.

A memorial service for Steve De Long, with military honors, is scheduled to begin at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012 at Sticklin Funeral Chapel with Pastor John Johnstone officiating. A luncheon reception will follow the service in the Sticklin hospitality room. Private inurnment will be at Grand Mound Cemetery.