Dave Joe Long, 73, a resident of Cleveland, passed away, Tuesday, April 17, 2012, in a Chattanooga hospital.

He was born in Los Angeles on Jan. 13, 1939, a son of the late Earl and Viola Long.

He was enlisted and served his country in the United States Air Force and received an honorable discharge in 1960.

He and his wife, Vicki, moved to Cleveland approximately 15 years ago from the Forest Ranch, Calif., area.

At age 50, he retired from being an electrician and he and Vicki traveled and visited various parts of the country for about eight years. He also enjoyed spending time on their sailboat. He will be most remembered, however, for being a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Lynn Schlief; and brothers: Raymond Long and Glenn Long.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of 27 years and four months, Vicki; son, Aaron and wife, Shelly, of Chico, Calif.; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and friends.

The family is planning a memorial gathering on the family farm in Bradley County. The exact date and times will be announced later.

You are encouraged to share a memory of him and/or your personal condolences with his family by visiting his memorial page at www.companionfunerals.com.

Companion Funeral & Cremation Service of Cleveland has charge of arrangements.