Ragnar Stroem, born December 23, 1950 in Trondheim Norway, passed away peacefully in his home on February 15, 2026.

He wrote his own obituary before his death:

Ronald R Long was my American name. I came to this country at 3 years old from Norway. I was raised in a world filled with hate and strived to defend those that could not. I took great pride in my activism. I am survived by my wife of 47 years, Janice (Bahr) Long, daughter Vanessa, son Morgan, grand daughter Serena, step grand daughters Natalie, Layla and great grand son Mateo. I was preceded in death by Raider and Midnight. My life was spent on the Betsie River fishing.

He was raised on a farm in Thompsonville and graduated from Benzie Central. He married Janice in July 1978. He spent his youth protesting Vietnam and standing up for civil rights. He continued his activism in recent years, joining protests in Big Rapids. He instilled his passion for equality and generous nature to his daughter. Many knew him as a hard person, drenched in sarcasm. To the ones he knew best, he was strong and had a gentle, caring man. He loved soul music, fishing, Michigan Football, animals and his family. To me, he was my hero. My father will forever live in my heart.

There will be a private service at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations, we only ask that you get out this spring and get your fishing license and go fishing in his honor.

Care and arrangements have been entrusted to Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes of Big Rapids. To share a memory or leave a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com