© Galesburg Racing Pigeon Club

Created By Jim Scott

Larry Allen Long, 61, of Davenport, died peacefully on Wednesday, January 23, 2008, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Genesis VNA in Bettendorf. Services to celebrate Larry's life will be 10 a.m. Monday, January 28, at Weerts Funeral Home, Kimberly at Jersey Ridge, Davenport. Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Burial will be in Allen's Grove Cemetery, Donahue, Iowa.

Memorials may be made to the Donahue American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 532.

Larry was born in Kirksville, Missouri, to Wesley M. and Dorothy (Mullanix) Long in 1946 and was raised near Donahue, Iowa. He attended North Scott High School and later graduated from St. Ambrose College in Davenport. On March 6, 1982, he was united in marriage to Carolyn McIntosh in Davenport.

Although Larry was employed by Nestle' Purina for 39 years, he was best known for raising, showing and racing pigeons. He was a member of the American Racing Union and was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award and Legend of the Sport. He was also a member of the American Rabbit Breeders Association and American Poultry Association. He retired January 1, 2006.

Larry participated in the Race For The Cure and released a pink dove along with other white doves to commemorate the cause. Larry also released doves at the American Legion Memorial Service at Allen's Grove Cemetery each year, as well countless funeral and veterans' ceremonies.

Larry's love for his family and friends has left many fond memories and he will be dearly missed.