James Long

It is with sadness in our hearts that James Patrick Long left this world on Monday May 5, 2025.  Jim was born September 22, 1965 in Fort Ord Village, CA to Ivan Long and Mary Lou Tucker-Long.

Jim moved around the country while his Dad was stationed at various military bases, taking him to Hawaii and Alaska before settling down in the Bitterroot Valley. Jim attended Stevensville Elementary School and graduated from Hamilton High School in 1983. He followed his older brother Mark and sister Margaret through the southern states and California. And in 1997, Jim graduated from the University of Montana.

On August 27, 1993 Jim met Wendell Petersen whom he would spend the rest of his life with.  They married on April 18, 2017 and continued to live in the Missoula area with their three dogs; Tucker, Charlie and Zoe.

The last twenty years of his life Jim worked for Skywest Airlines, Delta Global Services and Unifi Aviation until his death. Through his work with the airlines, Jim made countless friends along the way and many remained friends.

Jim’s career in the airline industry allowed him and Wendell to travel the world. In June of 2011 Jim surprised Wendell with a trip to Rome, Italy for Wendell's 50th Birthday.  They also enjoyed going to O"ahu, Hawaii every couple of years to soak up the sun and play in the ocean. Jim also made this trip over the years with friends too.

Jim is survived by his husband, Wendell Petersen and their dogs Tucker, Charlie and Zoe. Jim is preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother and sister. Jim was a friend to anyone who got to know him.  He will be missed and in our hearts forever.