Byron Long

Byron F. Long, 90, of Sterling, died, Sunday, January 31, 2016 at his home. Byron was born May 3, 1925 in Sterling, the son of Menno A. and Pearl (Landis) Long. He married Elsie Iben on November 6, 1949 in Chadwick. Byron was a lifelong member of Science Ridge Mennonite Church in Sterling. He farmed in the Sterling area, drove bus for Jordan School, and also drove a petroleum truck for Whiteside FS. In 1946, Byron served in Civilian Public Service in Iowa, California, and Maryland. He was an avid Cardinal’s fan, and in his later years made the world’s best peanut brittle, caramels, and fudge. Byron thoroughly enjoyed telling stories of life experiences to his family and friends. Survivors include his wife Elsie, of Sterling; one daughter Carol (Calvin) Zehr of Tiskilwa; one son, Melvin (Vicki) Long of Sterling; two sisters, Vera Allison and Darlene Haak, both of Sterling; one brother, Dale (Joyce) Long of Sterling; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Rick Long. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling, with Reverend Arnie Owens and Reverend Doctor Cal Zehr,co-officiating. Burial will be in Science Ridge Mennonite Cemetery, Sterling. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM Friday, February 19, 2016 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church in Sterling and from 10-11 AM Saturday, prior to services at the church. A memorial has been established to Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling. Condolences may be sent to schillingfuneralhome.com.