Anna Lou Long Friesen

Anna Lou Long Friesen, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025. A woman of quiet strength, boundless compassion, and unwavering dedication, Ann lived a life rich in love, service, and purpose.

Born October 25,1937, Ann grew up with a deep appreciation for nature, a love that stayed with her throughout her life. She found joy in the simple pleasures—walks outside, watching the hummingbirds, and growing things (especially red petunias).

Ann was married to Dr. Charles Long, 25 years and raised two children, Susie Troutt (Doug) of Wichita, Kansas and Chuck Long of Dover, Oklahoma. She later married Vernon Friesen, and together they adopted two children, Dallas Merritt (Julius) of Manhattan, Kansas and Haley Friesen of Manhattan, Kansas. Vern passed away in 2020 from complications of Covid. She is survived by six grandchildren Cassandra Grizzle (Matt), Dr. Bradley Long, Alex Long, Hannah Brown (Nick) and Sarah Komosa (Mark), Ryan Malick, and seven great grandchildren Chloe Grizzle, Landon Livingston, Lincoln Brown, Waverly Brown, Macy Komosa, Annie Grace Komosa and Holden Komosa.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, I.E. and Zollie Larrabee of Kingfisher, OK and her brother, David Larrabee of Houston, TX

Ann attended Oklahoma State University and later graduated from Kansas State University with a BS degree in accounting. After passing the Certified Public Accountants exam she had a long and successful career at Varney and Associates. Ann brought integrity and diligence to her work, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike. In retirement she and Vern opened their home to children in need as foster care providers, offering stability, kindness, and unconditional love to countless young lives.

Ann was always ready with a story, a smile, or an ice cream bar. Her legacy lives on in the laughter, resilience, and compassion of her family.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 25, at 2:00 PM at Cedar Creek Cemetery on Dyer Road in Manhattan, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Sunflower Children's Collective, 323 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, Kansas 66502 (785)205-2970.