NAPA - Norman Dale Long, 81, passed away in his sleep on Oct. 29, 2009.

He was born in Collins, Iowa, on Aug. 1, 1928, to Francis and Ethelynd Long. He grew up in St. Helena and graduated from St. Helena High School in 1946.

He married Winnie Bartow on July 6, 1956. They lived in Napa, and together raised five children: Norma Jane, Alan, Sheri, Greg and Mark.

Norman worked as an electrician for 42 years, and was a member of local IBEW 180. He retired in 1990.

Norman’s hobbies included gardening, especially growing orchids, building model trains, flying, photography and genealogy.

When he was indoors, he stayed busy on his computer.

His old-fashioned work ethic, caring nature and sense of humor will be missed by his family and friends.

He was affectionately known as “Stormin’ Norman.”

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Winnie Long; daughter Norma Jane (Jimmy) Seward of Odessa, Texas; sons Alan Long of Odessa, Texas, Greg (Patti) Long of Napa, Mark (Lisa) Long of Napa; daughter Sheri Long of Napa; grandchildren Clint (Cindy), Mindy (Brent), Jeff, Nick, Tom, Jordan, Amanda, Mindi, Carlie and Kelsey; great-grandchildren Tyler, Jacie, Remie, Samantha and Rylie; sister JoAnne Silverman and brother-in-law Fred Bartow (Marilyn).

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother-in-law Dick Silverman.

A service to honor Norman’s life will be held Monday, Nov. 2, 1 p.m., in the chapel of Tulocay Funeral Home, with graveside committal to follow. Viewing will be Sunday, Nov. 1, noon to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kaiser Permanente Hospice, 975 Sereno Drive, Vallejo, CA 94589 or North Bay Regional Center, P.O. Box. 3360 Napa, CA 94558.

Words of sympathy may be sent to the family online at www.tulocaycemetery.org.