James Edward Long

Sunday, March 17, 2019 6:13 pm

James Edward Long, 72, of Decorah, passed from this life Feb. 23, 2019, at Gunderson Hospital in La Crosse, Wis. Jim lived a life full of love for his friends and family, playing guitar, sketching, on motorcycle rides enjoying the country, and most of all, living life the way he wanted – for which he will be remembered most. Celebration of life is at the Elks Lodge Sunday, March 31, from 4 to 8 p.m.

Born Oct. 27, 1946, in Keokuk to Ruth and James Long, Jim was raised in Burlington, married Dianne (Moen) in 1972, and they remained lifelong friends.

Jim learned the skill of barbering at the age of 17 at the University of Barbers in Ames. Throughout his 45-year career he has barbered in several cities and opened the Nordic Clipper in Decorah with Dianne Long; and later, in 1987, started the Hair Clinic.

“Barber Jim” was not just the midnight barber who cut hair. He welcomed friends into his barber shop at all hours of the day and night, where he loved to share stories, pictures, and of course a cold can of Mountain Dew. Jim encouraged everyone to challenge themselves, for nothing in this world could hinder him from doing what he enjoyed. Jim was always a caring person with a generous giving heart; an independent thinker. He was artistic, and a great people person.

Jim is survived by his two sons, Christopher of West Des Moines and Nick of White, Ga.; daughters Danielle and Nicole of Houston, Texas; grandsons, Magnus of West Des Moines and Brandon of White, Ga; granddaughters Maggie of Houston, Texas and Alexandra of White, Ga.; great-grandchildren Josette and Winston; brother David of Memphis, Mo.; sister Darlene of Shreveport, La.; and many adored friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Ruth and James Long; his brother Marty, sister Mavis (Leasman), and nephews Victor and TJ Long.
Memorials may be sent to Chris Long, PO Box 71601, Clive IA 50325 or dropped at the Nordic Clipper on West Water St.