Roll Call Tribute

Martin Duane Long
April 18, 1942 - March 18, 2021

Martin Duane Long – husband, father, grandfather and a friend to all – passed away on Thursday, March 18, 2021, just one month shy of his 79th birthday.

He was born on April 18, 1942 in Jacksonville, Texas to James Barley and Edith Lynn Martin Long. He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 ½ years, Roberta Crofford Long; sons and daughters-in-law, Rob ('88 '90) and Julie Long '91 of Fulshear; Ron and Elaine Long of St. Pete Beach, Florida; and grandson Travis Long of Fulshear.  He is also survived by his sister-in-law Kay Crofford who not only spent many weekends at their home but also took yearly vacations with them.

Duane graduated from Irving High School in 1960 and continued his studies at A&M College of Texas, Class of 1964, graduating with Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Civil Engineering. During his time at A&M, he was the Company Commander of Company F-3 and was recognized as a Distinguished Military Student.

Following his time at A&M, he served in the United States Army, later transitioning into the U.S. Army Reserves where he served 28 years and retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His professional career in the oil and gas industry starting with Shell Oil Company leading to Dresser Industries, where he was the Vice President of the Modular Systems Division. This allowed him his first opportunity to travel all over the world. He later finished his career as Vice President of Operations and partner of Alliance Engineering, retiring in 2011.

Travelling was his passion. Thru the years, with Roberta faithfully by his side, he travelled the world – spending time exploring European history and enjoying the tranquility of Hawaii. Their recent travels took them all over Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma and Louisiana watching their grandson Travis play baseball.

Duane loved old westerns and military/war movies. If it involved our Greatest Generation, he knew all about it. Had it not been for engineering, he may have been a historian as he was truly a scholar of military history.

He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his willingness to help anyone, his ability to fix literally anything, and as someone who never met a stranger. He will be missed by many.