Darren L. Delong

Darren L. DeLong, 41, of Cambridge, passed away Monday (October 12, 2009) at his home surrounded by his loving family. He courageously battled cancer for two years. He was born November 21, 1967 in Cambridge, son of Mona J. (Stephen) DeLong and the late Guy DeLong. Darren was a 1987 graduate of Buckeye Trail High School, Old Washington, and a graduate of Mid-East Career and Technical Center, Buffalo. He was a member of the Salesville United Methodist Church. He was employed at the Cambridge Developmental Center for twenty-one years, where he was the 3rd shift administrator. He was also an Honorary Chairperson in June of 2009 for "Relay for Life." Darren enjoyed sports, especially volleyball. He coached 7th grade Volleyball at Cambridge Junior High School from 2004-2005. He then went on to Shenandoah Zeps Varsity Volleyball in 2007 and received the "Coach of the Year" award. He returned to Cambridge during the 2008-2009 season, coaching Freshman Volleyball. He was a skilled decorator in floral arranging and crafting. He was also an excellent cook. Above all else, Darren was a great dad. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Alex Stephen and Mr. & Mrs. Joseph DeLong. He is survived by his wife, Kerry (Hickenbotton) DeLong, whom he married September 22, 1990; his mother, Mona J. DeLong of Salesville; two daughters, Karley and Taylar DeLong of the home; and like a daughter & son to him, Kim and Travis Rose of Cambridge; five brothers, David (& Debra) DeLong of Senecaville, Douglas (& Rhonda) DeLong of Cambridge, Darryl (& Sandy) DeLong of Salesville; Dennis (& Susan) DeLong of Cambridge and Dayle (& Shawna) DeLong of Parkersburg WV; a special father-in-law & mother-in-law, Wayne and Janet Hickenbottom of Kimbolton; special friends and caregiver, Becky and Mike Grimes of Old Washington; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Family and friends may call on Friday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Thorn-Black Funeral Home, Cambridge. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday (October 17, 2009) at the Quaker City United Methodist Church with Pastor Wib Bragg and Pastor Craig Murray officiating. Burial will be at Friends Cemetery, Quaker City. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Guernsey, Inc., PO Box 1165, Cambridge OH 43725 or to any other charitable organization.