Frank Douglas Long

Frank Douglas Long, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, and friend, passed away in Springfield, Oregon on March 3rd, 2026, at the age of 95. He was born on August 3rd, 1930, in Boise, Idaho, to Arletta Eve (Griffin) Long and Rolla Franklin Long.

Frank grew up in Boise, attending Cole School from 1936 to 1944, then Boise Junior High, and graduating from Boise High School in 1949. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country. From 1950 through 1954, Frank proudly served in the United States Navy, carrying his service with quiet pride and steadfast honor.

On April 1st, 1953, Frank married the love of his life, Delores Ilene (Holderness) Long. Their marriage of 54 years was filled with partnership, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together they raised three daughters, Sandy Louise (Vahala), Sue Anne (Gilliland), and Shannon Marie (McDaniel)—who remained the center of his world.

After returning home from the Navy, Frank began his career in the trades, completing his Sheetmetal apprenticeship from 1956 to 1960. He went on to work as a Sheetmetal Journeyman for 40 years, known for his skill, integrity, and dedication. He later served as the Business Manager for Local Union #332 for 10 years, advocating for the workers he respected and cared deeply about.

In 1981, Frank and Delores—known affectionately as Dee—opened the Golden Spike Pizzeria, a family‑run restaurant they operated with the help of their daughters until 1986. The Golden Spike became a warm gathering place filled with community, good food, and the unmistakable spirit of a family working side by side.

After Dee’s passing in 2007, Frank reconnected with a cherished high school classmate, Winifred Peterson. For 19 years, they shared companionship, adventure, and a love of travel, exploring the world together and bringing joy into one another’s lives.

Frank lived with a spirit of adventure. He loved flying his Cessna, exploring the skies over the Northwest and Alaska. He was an avid hunter, especially fond of pheasants and ducks. He enjoyed the freedom of the open road on his motorcycles—riding well into his mid‑80s. His curiosity, independence, and zest for life never faded.

Frank is preceded in death by his beloved wife Dee, his son‑in‑law Marion Gilliland, his older sister Betty, and his younger brother Gary.

He is survived by his daughters and their spouses:

• Sandy (Long) and Jon Vahala
• Sue (Long) Gilliland and her partner, Randy Laskey
• Shannon (Long) and Chris McDaniel

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Joshua and Heidi Vahala, Melisa (Vahala) and Mike Baeuerlen, Corissa (Wilson) and Derek Knox, Derek and Margaret Driscoll, Devin Driscoll and his partner, Brandi Jo Young, Autumn McDaniel and her partner, Johnathan Lothrop.

His great‑grandchildren include: Isabella, Isaac and Israel Vahala, Nicholas, Shari, Tony and wife Micaela Baeuerlen Harleigh Lothrop, Bowen and Braelyn Driscoll.

His great-great grandson: Avery Baeuerlen, and his younger sister Carolyn Crooks and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Frank lived a long, full, and adventurous life. He was loved and respected by many, including his wonderful, caring neighbors. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Frank’s family would like to say “Thank you” to the friends and neighbors who in the last few years, months, weeks, and days were there to help care for our dad. We know Frank appreciated every one of you.

The family is planning a celebration of life to be held in the park next to his house when the weather gets warmer. For all those who would like to help us celebrate Frank, we will post the time and place once it is arranged.