Charlene “Char” Long, 74, of Whitesville, passed away Wednesday, February 19, at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. She was born on July 5, 1950, in Dickinson, North Dakota to the late Joseph and Margaret Hirsch. Having lived in Montana since the age of 4, Char graduated as valedictorian from Billings Central High School in 1968 and went on to attend Colorado State University. From there she graduated with high honors and her bachelor’s in microbiology, which led her to work in many Denver hospitals as a med-tech before attending the University of Colorado Law School. In 1987, Char graduated and became a prominent real estate and business lawyer, having practiced in front of the Colorado Supreme Court and owning her own practice. She retired in 2016, after almost 30 years of service.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Char had a deep love for traveling – always accompanied by her soulmate, Sandy showed her the world, visiting 63 countries and every continent besides Antarctica. She loved to indulge in fine wines from all over the world and host themed parties with her loved ones. Most of all, Char enjoyed spending time with her family.
Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 21 years, Gordon “Sandy” Fitzgerald; older brother and hero, David Hirsch (Karen); daughters, Lindsey Long (Michael) and Laura Shinohara (Erik); granddaughters, Madeline and Charlotte Shinohara; and her beloved furry companion, Reggie.
Care entrusted to Cardinal Cremation Society.