Jerry “Hook” Long

Dates

Obituary

Jerry “Hook” Long, 75, of Mitchell, SD, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2026, at his home surrounded by the love of his family under hospice care. Visitation will be on Thursday, June 18, from 5-7:00 PM at Bittner Funeral Chapel. Burial will be at Graceland Cemetery in Mitchell at a later date.

Jerry Robert Long was born on January 1, 1951, to Mark and Marie (Kent) Long in Mt. Vernon, SD. Jerry grew up in Mount Vernon alongside his four sisters and one brother, creating memories and friendships that would last a lifetime. Throughout his life, Jerry lived in several places, including Topeka, Kansas, Sioux Falls, and Sturgis, before settling down and calling Mitchell, South Dakota, home.

On July 31, 1999, Jerry married the love of his life, Sandy Schoenfelder. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. Jerry was a proud father to his beautiful daughter, Kasee, and lovingly welcomed Jessica and Bobby as his stepchildren. No matter where he lived, Jerry was known for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. Jerry spent much of his life working in concrete construction and on area farms. His true passion, however, was trucking. He loved life on the open road and took great pride in his work as a truck driver until his retirement in 2022.

Jerry had many hobbies and interests throughout the years, but nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his family and friends. He had a huge heart, a warm smile, a smirk when you knew he was up to no good, and a way of making everyone feel welcome. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying the company of those around him, Jerry made a lasting impact on the lives he touched. Jerry will be remembered for his loyalty, generosity, sense of humor, and his love for his family and friends. Jerry's family finds comfort knowing that while his journey on earth has ended, his legacy of love, friendship, and kindness will continue for generations to come.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Sandra Long; daughter, Kasee Hetland; step-child, Bobby Bollington of Denver, CO; siblings, Ronnie (Sandy) Long of Mitchell, JoAnn (Rick) Tate of Ottawa, KS, Kay (Willie) Schoenfelder of Mitchell, SD, Janet Thill of Mitchell, SD, and Jean (Jim) Lovrien of Northfield, MN, along with six grandchildren many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by Jessica Jacobson, Mark and Marie Long, Gary “Boogie” Schoenfelder, and Larry Thill.

Visitation(s)

Cemetery