Roger Marshall Long was born 12-25-50. Sadly, he passed away 1-5-21.
Roger was a singer songwriter, artist, and poet. A true renaissance man.
Roger is survived by his wife, Sunni; their children, Dylan (Courtney) Long, Jessica Davis, and Marnie Salminen; and his seven beautiful grandchildren.
Roger was like a magnet. People were just drawn to him and he touched their spirit. He loved life and everyone he met knew it. He was a joy to us all. His wit will be missed as well as his talents.
Roger worked at many different jobs, but we know retirement was his favorite.
Rest in peace, Roger. From everyone who knew and loved you far and wide, you left us too soon.
On the last days of his life, he said, “Tell everyone I love them.”
Due to COVID and family distance, we know Roger would like us to wait until we can honor his life in the great outdoors, where he spent so many wonderful times with us.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Roger.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Roger and his family.
Sara “Margie “ Graveley-Moody says
Your Art Your Smile Your Music will live on. My deepest sympathies to all who knew and loved Roger. . Fly high Fly.
Cindy Ruffner says
Prayers of peace and strength to Sunni, along with my deepest condolences.
Cindy Ruffner
Dave Ritter says
I had come to visit two special friends Dylan and Courtney on the 4th of July one year in Butte. It was early evening and the sky was vibrant with anticipation. Through the maze of streets I had finally come close to a house that was in a full acoustical romp! The music had guided me to the house! That is when I first met Roger. His smile was magmatic and his eyes were dancing. It was a special night with laughter, stories, and music. I felt lucky to have met this wonderful man, and to be in the midst of so many of his friends and family. Thank you Roger for sharing your muse with me, and every life that you touched through your words, and music. I know you will be greatly missed by many. However, I’m confident, this next leg of your journey will be even more vivid and colorful. Not to mention full of lively music.
I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to all of Roger’s family and friends. You are all in my prayers.
Tym E. Frear says
Roger was such a friendly man. Always happy to say hello, spend a little time visiting about the Big Hole River and fishing. I will miss friendship and his generous smile. My condolences. Tym Hafer Frear
Diane Nees says
Sunni, our thoughts are with at this most difficult time.
Roger was such a delightful person.
Jerry and Diane
Michele Miles says
Roger was a special man. I always looked forward to seeing him and hearing his music and stories.
RIP
Nan and Ron Hicks says
Wow Roger! “What a ride!” I know one thing out of everyone I’ve known in my whole life you lived your life to the fullest and more. If all of us could be the kind of man you were this world would be a wonderful place. I loved your music, art and especially your humor. It’s hard for all of us to say goodbye so we’ll just say, “Keep a place by the river and bonfire for us.” Sunni, Dylan and family we send you our prayers and hugs for PEACE. Love yas, Nan and Ron
Kim LaBuff says
Growing up listening to Roger’s music around a campfire is one of my favorite memories. What a great man he was. He will truly be missed. Fly High Roger.
Kathy Braach says
To Sunni, Family and Friends,
It was always a pleasure to be around and in Roger’s company. A true friend with genuine compassion. Made me laugh and feel welcome. I will miss him and remember him forever as a true gentleman. What great memories you all must have to keep and hold as your own.
Dianne Ostenburg says
Sunni and family,
Our thoughts and prayers to you all. Roger was a great guy and camping friend, We will miss him
Renee Keith says
Sunni, family and friends, so enjoyed listening to Roger play and sing. You are all in my heart. RIP Roger, peace be with you all.
Carole says
RIP Roger. We will always remember the joy you brought to our lives. Thanks and see you on the other side of the rainbow bridge. My prayers and love are with Sunni and your family.
MEG (AND JOE IN SPIRIT) ANGELL says
I STILL HAVE THE 1983 ‘FLY-OPEN’ WILDFLOWER SHIRT, PROBABLY ONE OF THE BEST SHIRTS EVER DESIGNED FOR THAT GREAT ANNUAL GATHERING OF FRIENDS…..THE EARLY DAYS WERE SOOOOO FINE! ROGER, YOU ADDED SUCH AN INCREDIBLE AND UNIQUE PIECE OF FABRIC TO THE QUILT OF OUR LIFE….ALWAYS WARM, COLORFUL, AUTHENTIC, NEVER TO BE DUPLICATED. AS YOU KNOW, JOE FLEW OVER THE RAINBOW NOT LONG AGO; I KNOW HE WILL BE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME YOU TO THAT FAR, FAR, BETTER PLACE. I HOPE I CAN JOIN YOU SOON TOO!
Sarah Elliott says
Roger will be greatly missed! Sunny, I’m so sorry! You & Roger, 2 of the best people I’ve known! Roger was so jovial, so kind. Laughter & music, his warm smile, singing & playing, joy, some of my favorite memories. What a wonderful man! So shocked to hear of this loss. My deepest condolences to Sunny, my heart aches for you, you have truly the best love story! What an inspired inspirational life & love! A life lived to the fullest. Im just so very sorry. This is a huge loss to so many. My heartfelt sympathies to you, your friends, & your family. The two of you brought so much joy to so many, may you find comfort during this tragic time, I love you.
Marnie says
My Papa,
so many words & lyrics you know.
a beautiful heart, a beautiful soul.
My Yosemite Sam,
You held us together
A beautiful new start
The looks you would give if you disapproved
…mended
dark places in my heart and the songs you would sing still ring in my head
My Roger, My Papa
Let the signs stay unread.