- Date Of Birth: July 15, 1938
- Date Of Death: September 6, 2014
- State: Montana
Forest L. “Trees” Long, age 76 left this life for his eternal home on Saturday, September 6th after a short, but valiantly fought battle with lung cancer.
Forest was born on July 15, 1938 in Hamilton, Montana to Norman and Mary (Pillen) Long. He joined his three older brothers, Norman Jr., Oliver, and Walter. After graduation from Hamilton High in 1956, he and his high school friend, Dave Vial, took a journey on the Old Alaskan Highway to spend two years working on the Alaskan Railroad.
Upon his return to the lower 48, he was very proud to serve his country in the 82nd battalion of the US Army Airborne from 1958 to 1960.
On May 5th, 1961, he married his best friend and life-long love, Jeanie Brown. They resided in Anaconda, Montana, until 1967.
Forest was an extremely proud member of the Ironworker’s Union, joining in 1960 and keeping his 54-year membership current until his passing.
It was important to Forest that his children grow up in a rural setting instead of living in the hustle and bustle of city life. So, in 1971, he moved his family, including the dog & cat, to Brady, which became home until his passing.
He was happiest when serving others and was active in every area of the small community. He was on the Brady School Board, the Fire Department, Civic Club and was Scout Leader for the Webelos. He was the ultimate volunteer; making sure both Brady Parks were well kept, including the updated outhouse in the City Park. He used his tremendous skill in welding by volunteering to teach at the Brady School. Having one of his own grandsons in the classes was a special blessing for him.
In short, he was the Brady go-to man. If he couldn’t do it, he would make sure that somehow, it would get done. He was a true supporter and encourager of all sporting events and all children, whether they were his children, grandchildren or community children.
Anyone who was blessed to have known him understood the importance of family, friends, integrity and time.
He joins those who have gone on before him: son David, parents Norman & Mary, Brothers Norman Jr. and Walter, two great-grandchildren as well as special nieces and nephews.
He leaves behind: beloved wife of 53 years Jeanie, daughters Debra (Tom) Miller, Diane (Steve Friend) Long, son Daniel (Theresa) Long, 17 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, many foster grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
