July 20, 1980– July 2, 2026____________________________________________
Robert “Robby” Long, 45, of Timber Lake passed away July 2, 2026, near McLaughlin. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, July 9 at the Timber Lake Community Center.
Robert Chad Long was born on July 20, 1980, in Gettysburg to Robert and Darshan Long.
Robby grew up in Timber Lake and graduated from Cheyenne-Eagle Butte High School in May 1998. Shortly after graduation, he began working for Midwest Paint Services, traveling throughout the country and gaining experiences that reflected his work ethic and adventurous spirit.
In 2002, Robby met the love of his life, Tracey Hettich. Their relationship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were married on August 4, 2007. Together, they built a home and family, as they raised seven children: Patrick, Wyatt, Lakesha, Ricky, Sequoia, Ariana, and Tomi. Robby took great pride in his family and found joy in being a husband and father.
Robby was known as a hard worker. He found his true calling building fences across the area, working for local ranchers who came to know him as a “fencing fool.” Robby approached it with a skill and a willingness to lend a hand wherever it was needed.
Robby developed a love for hunting at a young age, while spending countless hours hunting with his dad and brothers. He also loved fishing, especially the days spent picking up his Uncle Ronnie to head out on the water. Those moments meant the world to him.
Robby will be remembered most for the person he was. He had a heart of gold and a kindness that drew people to him. His infectious laugh and giggle could brighten any room, and his quick wit and sense of humor ensured that those around him were never short of a good laugh.
One of Robby’s most cherished relationships was with his Grandpa Kenneth, who gave him the nickname “Coyote.” It was a name that suited him perfectly—reflecting his playful spirit, love of the outdoors, and unique personality.
Robby shared a one-of-a-kind relationship with his oldest niece, Mikki Long-Veit, whom he loved more like a little sister than a niece. The two had an unbreakable bond built on loyalty, laughter, and a shared sense of humor that wasn’t for the faint of heart. They always had each other’s backs, could make each other laugh no matter the circumstances, and were notorious for teaming up to give everyone else a hard time.
Robby leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, and treasured memories. He never needed a special occasion to visit—he simply enjoyed spending time with the people he loved, sharing stories, laughter, and making memories. His family and friends will remember him for his kind heart, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the joy he brought into the lives of others.
Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his stories, laughter, and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of his family, and many friends.
Robby is survived by his wife, Tracey of Timber Lake; his children - Kenton Looking Back and daughter Xeniah; Patrick (Justice) Hettich and children Preston, Paislee, Grayson, Haysen and Hadley; Wyatt Hettich; Lakeisha Hettich (J.D. Enright) and children Ava Hettich and Denver Enright; Ricky Hettich and children Ezekiel and Tristan; Sequoia Taken Alive; and Tomi White; his parents, Robert and Darshan Long; brothers Kenny Long and Jace Long; sisters Heidi Long and Janna (Jeremy) Bollinger; nephews Trey Bollinger, Kyler Bollinger, Trentin Long, and Kayzen Long; nieces Mikki (Roy) Veit, Macey Bollinger (Trav Lerud), and Shanna Long; greatnephew Ryder Veit; and great-nieces Ramzi Veit and Wrenlee Lerud.
Robby is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Kenneth and Maxine Long; maternal grandparents, Blaine and Edith Traversie; sister Jessy Faye Long; nephew Kayden Kraft; grandson Hayden Hettich; sister-friend Shawn Lamb; and special uncle Dale Rowley.