Born on June 04, 1953 in Worcester, MA to Catherine (Broderick) Long of Milford, MA and Andrew J. Long of WV. Raised in Milford, MA he traveled through Europe, Holland, Amsterdam and South America after he finished high school. Upon returning from his travels, he became highly skilled in construction. Andy possessed a lifelong talent for finish carpentry and his flair was pursued by many as his work was remarkable. He was involved in the automotive business in the early 1980’s before settling in Cape Cod (Sandwich) in 1991 as a result of his love for the sea.
Andy was a licensed sea captain of the fishing vessels Pokeabout and SloPoke. He was a commercial and lobster fisherman, specializing in bluefin tuna. His passion was fighting a giant tuna, competing in shark tournaments, hosting fishing charters and spent many years on the water doing so. He had a very successful marine profession as he caught many huge tuna and benefitted from sharing his knowledge of the sport. His long term fishing career ended in 2015 due to ailments.
Andy was also a sports enthusiast, enjoying NE Patriots, Red Sox and Celtics games. A ride on his Harley was well entertained and race horses were a favorite too. An admiration for vintage cars found Andy and Wendy driving Wendy’s ’67 Camaro “Pearl” (with the top down no less) out on a Sunday afternoon for ice cream. He was fond of legendary guitar greats and enjoyed playing the guitar himself as he had such a love for music. Andy was so clever at fixing most things not to mention incredibly handy. He was called upon by many friends, neighbors and family for assistance. He did not ever say no to anyone in need of help, including a stranger. Andy had a knack for putting others in front of himself. Quick witted and a great sense of humor. He had a genuine gift and was a gift to all he touched. Loving life, he followed his own voice, followed his own passion and was not ever afraid to do so. He welcomed most challenges with open arms, including his declining health issues. He fought harder at his health than fighting the largest tuna that he had ever caught. Truly one of a kind. We are all so very proud of him!
Andy parts with his lifelong love of 38 years, Wendy Nevins, her siblings (Chip, Laura, Tam and Brenda) and her father Arthur. He is survived by his two brothers, LTC David Long (Roni) of San Diego, CA, Michael Long of Milford, MA, and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his sister Katherine Long and his nephew Joseph Ambrogi.
A heartfelt thanks to all of our friends and loved ones for the cards, gifts and calls to express the love all felt for him. A very special thank you to Dana Zweig, MD and her medical assistant, Susan, for their ongoing compassion and care. An extra special thank you to the entire staff at Falmouth Hospital involved in Andy’s treatment and a sincere appreciation to Bourne Fire and Rescue.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, September 11, 2023 from 4:00 to 7:00pm at Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, Rt 6A Sandwich, MA 02563. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.nickersonbournefh.com for the Long family.
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