De Long, Arnold Frederick

Service Highlights

  • Born November 15, 1932 in Glassville, New Brunswick.
  • Enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force on January 29, 1954.
  • Served during the Cold War era as a teletype operator.
  • Discharged from the RCAF on January 28, 1957.
  • After his service he moved to St. Marys, Ontario.
  • Worked on the pipeline in Elliot Lake before settling in St. Marys.
  • Worked at Great Star Flour Mill and later with Hammond Fuels delivering coal and working with asphalt crews.
  • Trained and worked as an oil burner mechanic.
  • Founded and operated DeLong Burner Service for 33 years before retiring.
  • Member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 236, St. Marys.
  • Died: January 16, 2021
  • Commemorated through the St. Marys Legion Veterans Banner Program.

A Life and Service Remembered

Arnold Frederick DeLong was born in Glassville, New Brunswick, in 1932. As a young man he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in January 1954 during the early years of the Cold War. Serving as a teletype operator, he was part of the communications network that allowed military units to transmit information quickly and reliably during a period of global tension.

After completing his service and receiving his discharge in January 1957, DeLong made his way to St. Marys, Ontario, where he would build his life and career. Like many veterans transitioning back to civilian life, he worked a variety of jobs before eventually establishing his own trade. He worked on the pipeline in Elliot Lake, later at the Great Star Flour Mill, and with Hammond Fuels delivering coal and working with asphalt crews.

Over time he trained as an oil burner mechanic and eventually started his own business, DeLong Burner Service, which he operated successfully for more than three decades before retiring.

Music played an important role in Arnold’s life as well. In retirement he enjoyed playing guitar with the Lady Fiddler Band, where his wife played the fiddle. Together they performed at nursing homes, jamborees, and community events, bringing music and enjoyment to many people in the region.

Arnold’s greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren whose visits and hugs always brought a smile to his face. His life reflected a balance of service, hard work, music, and family.

Major Service and Operations

  • Cold War era service with the Royal Canadian Air Force
  • Communications duties as a teletype operator

Learn More

Royal Canadian Legion Military Service Recognition Book
https://on.legion.ca/remembrance/military-service-recognition-book/msrb/

Arnold Frederick DeLong obituary
https://hodgesfuneralhome.ca/tribute/details/274/Arnold-DeLong/obituary.html