01.12.20 We are deeply shocked and saddened to report the murder of author, publisher, and well-known chess personality Bob Long. Bob was a one-of-a-kind pioneer in the world of chess who dedicated his life to doing what he loved. As a chess expert, organizer, director, author, publisher, sharp-witted colleague, friend, and the list goes on, Bob was an indefatigable icon. He will be deeply missed by the many, many friends whose lives he touched.

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In a state of disbelief and horror I read of the tragic death of my long-time chess friend and colleague Bob Long. Bob and I have corresponded over chess for twenty-five years. As a lover of all things C.J.S. Purdy, Bob was my go-to-guy for a seemingly endless supply of Purdy's teachings, writings, games, and life musings in the form of books, magazines, special monographs, and hard-to-find tidbits.

Bob was irascible and acerbic. He was also thoughtful, kind, fair, honest, and a good friend. He would do anything he could to satisfy the needs of the chess community. Bob's most-recent business reincarnation The Chess Butler speaks to his dedication and devotion to serve up the beauty of chess with dignity and aplomb to his small but fervent group of followers.

Bob was a prolific writer. Aside from the many books he wrote and published, Bob maintained a blog called bobthechesser 50+ Years of Chess Adventures. His personal emails often contained humorous, educational, and deeply profound reflections on the game of chess and the game of life.

Bob's latest work, an expanded edition of C.J.S. Purdy's Search for Chess Perfection, was completed and mailed to many eagerly waiting chess fans in late December of 2019. On January 9th, just two days after Bob's untimely passing and not knowing the fate that befell him, I sent him the following email correspondence thanking him for his work in keeping the Purdy legacy alive. It was a thank you note that, sadly, he never received.

Hi Bob,

Dan

Bob will be sorely missed. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Rest in peace and Godspeed Bob.