George Long, 85, ended his battle with Alzheimer's disease on Oct. 15. Long was associated with the plumbing industry for more than 50 years and was the founder of rep agency George Long Sales.

Long's journey began in 1962 in plumbing sales at the Zurier Co. After 11 years, Long and Bob Connell partnered to form the WestRep Co. Several years later, Long started George Long Sales.

Later, Long was asked to join Red White Valve Corp., a company he previously represented, as senior vice president of sales. During his career, he was active in the Pacific Southwest Distributors Association (PSDA), president of the local AIM/R, and a member of both the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) and the Southwest Plumbers and Peddlers.

Long will be remembered for his warm smile, sense of humor and flawless integrity. His daughter, Denise Long, carries on the banner of George Long Sales.