A LEGISLATIVE COMMEMORATION honoring the life and legacy of William Long IV.

WHEREAS, William Long IV lost his life on December 21, 2025, while enjoying one of his greatest passions, ice fishing, on the Rosebud Reservation; and

WHEREAS, William was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished brother, nephew, cousin, and a loyal friend to many throughout his community; and

WHEREAS, William was known for his deep love of fishing in every season, embracing the outdoors with patience, skill, and joy; and

WHEREAS, William was a boxer whose discipline, determination, and resilience reflected the character with which he lived his life; and

WHEREAS, William was a passionate supporter of youth athletics and believed strongly in mentoring young people through sports, serving as an assistant coach for the Todd County Lady Falcons basketball team and encouraging young athletes both on and off the court; and

WHEREAS, he was a proud and dedicated fan of the Minnesota Vikings and the New York Yankees, bringing energy and spirited conversation wherever games were watched and victories were celebrated; and

WHEREAS, William embraced both his Mexican heritage and Native American culture with pride, honoring the traditions, values, and strength of his ancestors while passing their teachings forward to the next generation; and

WHEREAS, William Long IV’s life was defined by loyalty to family, commitment to community, and a generous spirit that touched many lives across the Rosebud Reservation and beyond;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT COMMEMORATED, by the One Hundred First Legislature of the State of South Dakota, that this body honors and remembers William Long IV for his life, his service to youth, his devotion to family, and the example he set for his community; and

BE IT FURTHER COMMEMORATED, that the House extends its deepest sympathy to his wife, child, family members, teammates, players, and friends, and recognizes that his memory will live on in the lives of those he helped to shape.