LaJean Rae Long

LaJean Rae Long, 82, of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 19, 1943, in North Platte, Nebraska, to Ed and Bernadine Wachholtz.

LaJean grew up in North Platte, where her bright spirit and enthusiasm shone through as a cheerleader during her high school years. After graduation, she pursued her passion for education at the University of Nebraska, becoming a proud member of Kappa Delta Sorority and forming lifelong friendships along the way.

Following college, LaJean began her teaching career as an elementary school teacher in Sioux City, where she touched the lives of countless children with her kindness, patience and love of learning. It was in Sioux City that she met the love of her life, Val Long, in the apartment complex where they both lived. Their connection was instant, and they were married on October 4, 1969, in North Platte, Nebraska.

Together, they built a beautiful life and welcomed their beloved son, Christopher, in September 1972. Sioux City remained their home, but they also cherished their time as snowbirds in Palm Desert, California, where they spent twenty wonderful winters together, surrounded by sunshine, dear friends and laughter.

LaJean dedicated her life to creating a loving and joyful home for her husband of 56 years, Val and their son, Chris. She poured her heart into motherhood, cheering Chris on at every stage of his athletic journey, from T-ball to East High School sports to his years playing football at NDSU. She was his biggest supporter, always in the stands with pride in her eyes and love in her heart.

Family was at the center of everything LaJean did. Her greatest joy came from spending time with those she loved, especially as “Nana Gigi” to her five cherished grandchildren. She found happiness in the simple moments like baking in the kitchen, playing bridge with her girlfriends, watching the Huskers and shopping until she dropped. Her grandchildren will forever remember her generous spirit, compassionate heart and infectious laugh that could light up any room.

LaJean is preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Bernadine Wachholtz, and her brothers, Butch and Kenneth Wachholtz.

She is survived by her husband, Val; her son, Chris and his wife Amy; and her five beloved grandchildren, Olivia, Jacob, Finn, Cooper and Jack. She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings, Linda (Steven) Campbell, Larry (Vicky Buden) Wachholtz; sisters-in-law Judy Wachholtz, Mavis (Dennis) Gruhlke; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Christy-Smith Funeral Homes, Morningside Chapel (1801 Morningside Ave) with a Visitation taking place one hour prior. A private family burial will follow. In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests donations be made to Nativity Catholic Church, Sioux City, Iowa.

The family requests no flowers or trees.