Burke Russell Long, 56, of Idaho Falls died July 23, 2008, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center of a sudden illness.

He was born October 28, 1951, to Grant Virgin Long and Marjorie Mary Flint Long. He grew up in Idaho Falls and many other areas as his fathers work with the sugar company caused the family to move around frequently. He attended high school at Bonneville, Moses Lake, Washington; and in 1970, he graduated from Bear River High School in Garland, Utah. He earned a degree in Sociology from Ricks College and a degree in English and Criminal Investigation from Brigham Young University.

On June 11, 1976, he married Donna Marie Steflik in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. He worked for Bucyrus-Erie in Pocatello; and at the INL site he worked for EG&G, Lockheed Martin, Bechtel, and CWI.

He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was active in scouting when he was younger and as an adult served as a Boy Scout leader.

He enjoyed playing the guitar, reading, motorcycles, history, sports, and spending time with his family, especially his grandson, Mason Parker Long.

"Every man dies, not every man really lives."

He is survived by the following: wife, Donna Marie Long of Idaho Falls; son, Nathan Daniel (Katie) Long of Twin Falls; son, Shane Patrick Long of Antioch, California; daughter, Tara Marie Long of Idaho Falls; a brother, Ronald Long of Idaho Falls; a sister, Colleen (Brad) Salmonson of Idaho Falls; and 1 grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be at 12 Noon, Saturday, July 26, 2008, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls. The family will visit with friends from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, 2008 at Coltrins' and Saturday one hour prior to the services. Burial will be in the Lincoln Cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com.