William Joseph Long, 72, of Lake Ozark died Aug. 5, 2024, at his home after a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia with Parkinsonism. After graduating from Festus High School in 1971, Mr. Long worked briefly at the Chrysler Truck Assembly Plant in Fenton. From there he began working toward his journeyman lineman ticket and ending in retirement from Ameren Electric Company at Lake of the Ozarks. He met Karen while working part-time at his dad’s gas station, Long’s Mobil. They married in 1974. Mr. Long loved the outdoors. From 1982 on, he lived near Lake of the Ozarks and was also an avid bird hunter. He loved crappie fishing, earning him the nickname “Crappie King.” He will be remembered for his helpful nature and having a heart of gold. Born in his Grandma Zufall’s home on Feb. 16, 1952, in De Soto, he was the son of the late James B. and Zelma (Zufall) Long.
He is survived by his wife: Karen Long of Lake Ozark; two daughters: Nicolle Long (Chad) Ragsdale and Erica Long (Baron) Adkins; seven grandchildren: Nicholas Cashman, Lucas Cashman, William Cashman, Asher Adkins, Lauren Adkins, Evan Ragsdale and Kendall Ragsdale; five siblings: Linda Long Davis, Angela Long (Rick) Rosener, Martin Long (Virginia) Sr., Christine Long Hubbard and Laura Long Friedman; and many other family member and friends.
He was preceded in death by a brother: James Paul Long.
A private funeral Mass was held Aug. 8. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery in De Soto. Memorials may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047 or Lake Ozark Area Parkinson’s Support Group, Care of Patsy Dalton, 1311 Vintage Drive, Columbia, MO 65203. Arrangements were under the direction of Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home in De Soto.