Jean Ellen Long

Jean Ellen Long, 88, of Kalkaska, passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving husband and five children. Jean was born on February 27, 1938, in Trenton, Michigan, to Paul and Zelma Angel. She met and married her first love, the late Henry Joseph "Jack" Minder, Sr. Together they moved to Kalkaska in 1966, where they built a life, raised their family, and created countless cherished memories. Their time together was cut short when Jack passed away in 1984. Several years later, Jean found love again when she met Isiah "John" Long. They were married on June 9, 1990, and John remained faithfully by her side for the rest of her days, sharing a life filled with love, laughs, and companionship. Jean is survived by her devoted husband, John Long; her five children, Jack (Kathy) Minder, Tim Minder, Lorie (Scott) Losee, Shirley (Todd) Harger, and Dan Minder, all of Kalkaska; her grandchildren, Jessica Minder, Jack Minder, Nichol Minder, Ashley Minder, Lacey Laforest, and McAylan Minder; several great-grandchildren; and her siblings, David Angel, Judy Wiegand, William Angel, and Charles Angel, along with their spouses. After dedicating many years to being a homemaker and raising her children, Jean began a career as a radiology technician. She later retired from Kalkaska Memorial Health Center, where she was known for her caring nature and strong work ethic. Jean was a sweet but undeniably sassy woman with a wonderful sense of humor who was loved by everyone fortunate enough to know her. She never hesitated to stand her ground, and if someone crossed the line, she was known to warn that she would "jerk a knot in your tail." Her family will forever smile when remembering her quick wit, sharp tongue, and loving heart. She found joy in cooking for those she loved, trying her luck at the casino, watching the birds that visited her backyard, gathering with family, cruising, and spending hours fascinated by the fish in her aquarium. Jean also dearly loved her dogs throughout the years. She leaves behind her sweet grand dog, Benny, and her family takes comfort in imagining her being welcomed at the Rainbow Bridge by the many beloved companions who went before her. Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Zelma Angel; her first husband, Henry "Jack" Joseph Minder, Sr. and her siblings, Donna, Paul, Larry, Jack, Parris, and Loretta. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at St. Mary's of the Woods Church in Kalkaska beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. There will be a rosary prayer at 9:45 for those who would like to attend. Memorial contributions in Jean’s honor may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Jean's legacy lives on through the family she cherished, the friends she touched, and the countless memories she created. Her love, laughter, strength, and sass will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Jean Ellen Long

February 27, 1938 - May 25, 2026