Richard D. Long 10/1/1944 - 4/6/2024

Richard Dewey Long, born October 1, 1944, passed away April 6, 2024, at home with his family in Folsom. Richard spent 22 years working in the airplane cargo industry, where he increased his knowledge of the value of dependability, a trait he would exhibit and respect in others for the rest of his life. He then transitioned to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), working in the Commercial Enforcement Division. He became an expert in drug and alcohol testing of commercial drivers. He initiated and coordinated the Biennial Inspection of Truck Terminals (BIT) program, writing many amendments to California Vehicle Code 34501 in the process, as well as headed the Controlled Substance and Alcohol Testing (CSAT) program. For his role in both these statewide safety programs, Richard received awards from the California Trucking Association (CTA) and commendations from his chief and the commissioner of the CHP. Richard was also complimented on his clarity in communications. Richard loved working with his hands, especially on antique clocks and cars. Nearly forty years ago, he took his first class on repairing antique clocks and became a member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors. He had been repairing and restoring antique clocks ever since. When he saw something broken, he always wanted to fix it. One would often find him tinkering on clocks in his garage, fixing up a classic car (his favorite was the '57 Cameo), or browsing the aisles of an antique store or perusing eBay for his next "find" (the best bargain he ever found was the Elmer Stennes banjo clock that hung in his bedroom). He enjoyed frequenting car shows. He was an avid thrift shopper and was commonly seen at the local Goodwill and Eco thrift stores. He took pleasure in watching Western movies and Leslie Nielson movies of all kinds. Richard was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2021. He inspired his family with his strength and adaptability to the various obstacles he would face. He strived to live by the motto "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" and greatly appreciated the expression "it is what it is." He always aspired to do the right thing. He valued family above all else and will be missed by all those who had the blessing to know him. Richard once said, "Grandma Varalla often said that 'self-praise is no praise,' but I have to take a bow on family." His family, proud to have known him and been loved by him, will be taking many bows for him. Richard is preceded in death by Wanda Long (first wife of 35 years) and Donald Long (brother). Richard is survived by Jeanie Long (second wife of 23 years); his siblings Steven, Susan, Diana, and Cathy; his five children, Christopher, Mary Dawn, Kazmiera, Jarrod, and Heidi Anne; twelve grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. The family is planning a celebration of Richard's life. Richard will be interred at Mount Vernon in Orangevale. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to local charities that help those in need.