August 30, 1934 – May 7, 2026
Donald David Long, Sr. 91, passed away on May 7, 2026 in Redding, CA. Don lived a life filled with achievement, service, leadership, and a deep commitment to his family and community.
Born in Flint, MI on August 30, 1934, Don enlisted in the military at 18 and became a sea-going Marine at the end of the Korean War. He served as an aide to the captain of his ship, an experience he greatly enjoyed leading to his love of sailing, and life in California.
After his military service, Don built a distinguished career in real estate, education, and law. He earned a doctorate of law from Santa Clara University, became a real estate broker, and served for many years as a broker, branch manager and EVP at Coldwell Banker. In 1980, he was elected president of the Real Estate Board in Los Altos.
Don was also a gifted teacher. He created and taught community college courses in real estate sales, practice & law classes, as well as public speaking, sharing his knowledge and experience with countless students as he believed strongly in education and was continually learning himself. Over the years, he earned numerous certificates through his education and community service.
Service to others was one of the defining qualities of Don’s life. He devoted ten years to the United Way and participated in many other community activities. He was a natural leader and was famously the president of every class he was in. Wherever Don went, he tried to make things better as a coach and mentor.
One of the important final chapters of Don’s life was his work as EVP & COO for the Castro Valley Ranch in Gilroy. Guiding ranch operations represented another part of his lifelong willingness to take on new challenges and build something meaningful.
Don is survived by his wife of 57 years Marilyn; his five children in his blended family: Eric, Sue, Cindy, Linda and DJ; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Melody. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sharon, and his brothers Ron, Del, Bart, John.
Don will be remembered as a man who served his country, taught others, led wherever he was needed, gave generously to his community, and always tried to leave the world a little better than he found it.
