Richard J. "Dick" Long

Solon

Richard Joseph Long, 87, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 AM, Friday. February 13, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Solon. Visitation will be from 9 AM to 10:30 AM at the Church, prior to the Mass. Burial with Military Honors will follow at St. Bridget Cemetery.

The Mass will be live streamed on the St. Mary Facebook page. A link will also appear on the funeral home website at www.lensingfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Mary's Church, 1749 Racine Ave NE, Solon, IA 52333.

Dick was born May 3, 1938 in Iowa City, the son of William and Anna(Rohret) Long. He was raised on the family farm in rural Solon. He was a graduate of Solon High School, attended the University of Iowa, and served the US Army. On June 22, 1963 Dick married the love of his life Marsha Allen.

The farm was eventually passed down to Dick, by his father, William Long, which was passed down to him, by his father, August Long. This over century-old farm became the heart beat for so many friends and relatives, both near and far. It is where Dick felt most at home. It is where he and his Marsha raised their 3 children. It is the place you would find him working in the fields, digging in his vegetable garden, taking care of his animals, cuddling kittens, tinkering in his garage, and spending countless moments on his porch, watching rain storms race across the fields, star gazing into the Milky Way. Dick loved to travel. He and Marsha drove all around the United States, visiting numerous landmarks, National Parks, and visiting family - the net was cast far and wide. Dick loved to talk! He loved to be with people and socialize. He loved to engage in good conversation and share a belly laugh of jokes. Dick and Marsha hosted many nights of card games at their home with friends and family over the years. Their favorite being Euchre. And he loved to share stories of his life. Dick often played an organ in the family living room, after Sunday mass. He also had a fondness for country music. Especially John Denver, Willy Nelson, Johnny Cash, to name a few. He loved to sing and strum on his acoustic guitar to his children.

On the Far Side Of The Banks of Jordan

I believe my steps are growing wearier each day

Still I've got a journey on my mind Lures of this old world have ceased to make me want to stay And my one regret is leaving you behind

If it proves to be his will that I am first to go And somehow I have a feeling it will be When it comes your times to travel likewise don't feel lost For I will be the first one that you'll see

And I'll be waiting on the far side banks of Jordan I'll be waiting, drawing pictures in the sand And when I see you coming, I will rise up with the shout And come running through the shallow waters, reaching for your hand

Lyrics of "On The Far Side of The Banks of Jordan", sung by

Johnny Cash & June Cash, Written by Terry Smith

Dick is survived by his children, Mari Long (Blake Carlson) of Northboro. MA, Mark Long of Sioux City, IA, and Kim Long (Patrick Donley) of Iowa City; grandchildren, Rylan, Miles, Clio, and Juniper; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Dick was preceded by his wife Marsha, his parents, William Long and Anna (Rohret) Long, his siblings, Bill Long (Dorothy), Rita Potter (Bill), and Bob Long (Kathy);

Online condolences at www.lensingfuneral.com