Vern William Long

Vern "Skip" Willam Long, 62, of Seneca, passed away at 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25th at Sugarcreek Station.Skip was born March 13, 1953 in Meadville, the son of Vern Long and Betty Longstreth. He was married to the former Linda Heckathorn, who preceded him in death.Skip was a Marine Corp veteran having served during the Vietnam Era. He was employed as a laborer for PA DOT before becoming disabled. Skip was a member of the Atlantic Avenue United Brethren in Christ Church in Franklin, and a member of V.F. W. Jesse Greer Post.He is survived by his mother, Betty Stearns of Franklin; his daughter, Candi O'Neil of Seneca; his step-son, Terry O'Neil of Oil City; and his special friend, Cathy Walter and her family (Kyle Boone, whom he raised, and Lisa Walter).Skip is also survived by his grandchildren, Ashley and Tara O'Neil of Seneca; and his sisters, June Bucholz of Tionesta, Leona Colwell of Franklin, Brenda Hanes and her special friend, Lloyd Umstead, of Barkeyville, Penny Pierce and her husband, Eric, of Franklin, and Sandy Kay and her husband, Tim, of Franklin.He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Lawrence Stearns, who raised him; his brother - Lawrence Stearns, Jr.; his nephews, Derrick Pierce and James Pierce; his grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.Family and friends of Skip are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com to send flowers, cards, online condolences or for further information.