Obituary of Robert J. Horbey

Robert J. Horbey of Endicott Robert (Bob) J. Horbey died on September 11th, 2024, surrounded by his family at Wilson Memorial Hospital. He was 89 years old. Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Marge, his daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Dennis Maldonado, his son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Verna Horbey, and his son and daughter-in-law, Ted and Lisa Horbey. He is also survived by his grandchildren Meghan Zajac and her wife, Brittany Zajac, Hope Fourie, Christian Horbey, and Jade Annabel. Bob and Marge were married nearly 65 years, and he loved her dearly. On their 40th wedding anniversary, he was still able to describe in detail what she wore on their first date. On her 80th birthday, he made her a card that said, "You're 80 and I'm still in love." Bob is loved and respected by his children, their spouses, and his grandchildren. He led by example, not by lecture. The example he modeled was of hard work, lots of fun, loving kindness, humor and generosity. Bob was born in Endicott, and other than living in Brackney, PA on Longford Lake for 20 years, lived his entire life in Endicott. As a travel agent at Sochor Travel for almost his entire career, Bob traveled the globe and was especially proud of his map that featured a pin in every city he visited. Wherever he went, he made it a point to get off the beaten path, eat in out-of-the-way restaurants, and meet local people. He was outgoing and fun-loving and always came home with great stories to tell of his adventures. A life-long Catholic, Bob was a member of Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church. By God's grace, Bob took an extra step of faith later in life which deepened his faith and understanding of Jesus's love for him. Bob was a charter member of the Endicott Sertoma club, and once served as its president. He was active in that club for many years, and volunteered his time at chicken barbecues, spaghetti dinners, Achieve picnics and more. Bob was always up for some fun and high jinx. He was known among his friends as a bit of a prankster, and always enjoyed making people laugh. A talented woodworker, Bob could create anything from a kitchen butcher block to a delicate wood carving. When he saw something in a store that he liked, be it a piece of furniture, a toy, or some other novelty, he would say, "I can make that," and then he'd go home and do just that. His home is full of his creations which will be treasured always. Expressions of sympathy in Bob's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or Mercy House in Endicott. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 19th at Saint Joseph's Church in Endicott from 10am to noon, followed by a funeral mass at noon, and then internment at Riverhurst Cemetery.