Merle Horsch

Merle "Bob" Horsch, 75, of Union County, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

A United States Army veteran, Bob served with the 101st Airborne Division and was awarded numerous medals, including two Purple Hearts, for his courage and sacrifice. His military service remained a source of deep pride throughout his life.

Bob was known for his larger-than-life personality and his wonderful sense of humor. He loved making people laugh and was always ready with a joke, a playful prank, or a good story. He brought joy to many as Santa Claus during the holidays, creating special memories for children who believed in the magic he shared. A longtime resident of Union County, he centered his life around family, laughter, and the people he cherished most.

Above all, Bob loved his family deeply and took great pride in watching them grow. He is survived by his wife, Jane Horsch; his children, Jennifer Amador and her husband Antonio Amador, Kristie Kovacs and her husband Jesse Kovacs, and Robert Horsch; and his grandchildren, Samantha Amador, Sarah Amador, Antonio Amador, Julia Kovacs, Matthew Kovacs, Alyssa Kovacs, Briella Kovacs, Ava Horsch, and Blake Horsch. He is also survived by his brother, Raymond Jost, his sister, Pamela Berardinelli, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Bob was predeceased by his mother, Eugenie Wasylyszyn, his father, Merle Horsch, his sisters Betty Vaccaro and Judith Kupshik, his brother Gary Horsch, and his nephew Donald Smith.

He will be remembered for his humor, his big heart, and the laughter he brought into the lives of so many. His family finds comfort in knowing that the love and memories he created will live on in their hearts.