Richard M Horbacz

Richard Horbacz, a 60-year resident of West Milford, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at his home on December 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Born and raised in Jersey City, Richard was the son of the late Benjamin and Ida Horbacz and was predeceased by his brother, Robert. It was in Snyder high school that Richard met the love of his life, Annette. They married at an early age and began their life together in Jersey City before shortly moving to West Milford, where they raised their two sons.

Richard spent his career at Wallace & Tiernan. He began as a factory floor worker and, through hard work and determination, rose through management. He eventually helped coordinate the sale and movement of the company to Vineland, New Jersey, working with the Governor's office to establish tax incentives and to facilitate the transition of employees from Belleville to Vineland.

While he had many demands on his time throughout his life and career, Richard's priority was always his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and, most recently, a great-grandfather. Whenever anyone needed him, for any reason, he was there in an instant—always ready and eager to help. He loved the Jersey Shore and spent many happy days there with his children, and later his grandchildren. He also had a passion for horse racing and often enjoyed days at the Meadowlands racetrack.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Annette; his son Richard and his wife Irina, and their son Alexander; and his son Gary and his wife Diane, and their children Matthew (and his wife Dakota), Justin, and Erin, along with a cherished great-grandchild, Mylo. He also leaves behind his beloved brother and sister-in-law, Val and Rosemarie DiGiacinto along with his many loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home in Butler, New Jersey. A Funeral Mass will follow at St. Joseph’s Church on Germantown Road in West Milford at 11:00am. Interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Valley Hospital Foundation at

https://www.valleyhospice.org/ways-to-give-donation-form