LONG, Albert Elroy

Published by Today's News Herald on Jul. 9, 2023 - Lake Havasu City, Arizona - Completing 103 years, 8 months, Albert Elroy Long concluded his fascinating lifetime journey on May 9, 2023 at 3:08 a.m. in Lake Havasu City. Albert (known as Al to us and Hosteen Peshlakai to many others) was proud of his Black Foot-Navajo heritage which began in Billings, Montana on Sept. 9, 1919. Al proudly served overseas in WWII as a US Marine Corps radio repairman and operator. Possessing a bold enthusiasm for learning, he was ever pushing the limits of racing Ferraris and Motor Cycles as a driver/evaluator. He became well known for his knowledge including an impressive personal collection of original indigenous artworks, books and Kachinas. A keen observer of the times, Al's latter decades saw him study and become the resident expert in Title 38 USC. As such he devoted untold hours encouraging and assisting veterans to file for entitlements based on their military service. Al is survived by his closest friend, Sharon Borgen and the many people that he has had the opportunity to touch and enhance their lives. Al nitsistsiistam (farewell) and nitsiniiyi'taki (thank you)! A celebration of life will be held for Al at 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 9 at Elks Lodge, 2399 in Lake Havasu City. Light snacks, water, coffee or tea will be included. Bring only yourself, with a favorite memory or story to share about this incredible gentleman who has physically moved on, but his words and deeds will long be remembered.