James William Long

Jim was born in Cambridge, Ohio, to Clay and Charlene Long. He grew up outside of Cambridge and attended the historic Old Washington High School. His upbringing in this close-knit community laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for history, education, and story-telling. He went on to pursue higher education, ultimately earning his Ph.D in History.

In 1970, Jim moved to Fort Collins and joined the faculty at Colorado State University as a professor in the Department of History. Over a distinguished academic career that spanned approximately three decades, Dr. Long became a widely respected Russian and Soviet historian.

Outside the classroom, Jim was a devoted spouse, partner, father, grandfather, and friend, known for his amazing conversational skills, sharp wit, love for books, generosity, and passion for travel.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Sue, and his wife Pat.

Jim’s legacy lives on through his children, Marc and Dave, their partners Ali and Kate, his grandchildren, Lena and Camille, his partner John McIntyre, and the countless students, colleagues, and friends whose minds he shaped and whose lives he touched.