Denise Marie Long, 51, passed away peacefully September 26, 2020 due to complications caused by esophageal cancer. She was born March 23, 1969 in Libertyville, IL to Donna and Doug Hess. She married her husband Tom April 25, 1997, their son Cody Lee was born March 22, 1996.

Denise's love of her life was her son, Cody Lee. They had a deep connection and bond that couldn't be broken. Her family describes her as independent, strong, loving, special, amazing, stubborn, content, resilient, and a fighter. Denise was strong throughout her chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments, most often smiling and making jokes with those around her.

For over 15 years Denise worked for the US Postal Service in St. Louis County. She started her career as a substitute rural mail carrier and ended her career performing various duties at the Virginia, MN branch. Denise loved her job and most of all her customers. Until the day she passed, Denise had customers writing her letters and sending her gifts in hopes of lifting her spirits during this trying time.

Denise is survived by her husband Tom Long and son Cody Lee Long; daughter Erica Ludwig and grandson Connor; her mom Donna Bak (Paul); sister Shasonta Delmage (Dale); brother-in-law Randy Long (Wendy) and nephews Eagen, Cooper and Brock; brother-in-law Jon Long and niece Bridgette and nephew Kevin; father-in-law and mother-in-law Tom and Judy Long; and extended family.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday, September 30 from 6-8pm and/or her celebration of life on Thursday, October 1, 2pm at the First Baptist Church in Cook, MN. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

"The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." Psalm 118:14.

Psalm 118:14 .