Gilbert died peacefully at home on Sunday, May 31st after a courageous and dignified 6 year battle with cancer. Every day he strove to enjoy his life between the numerous painful treatments and surgeries he endured. He was a inspiration to other cancer patients, physicians and particularly to his many friends and family who loved …
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Gilbert died peacefully at home on Sunday, May 31st after a courageous and dignified 6 year battle with cancer. Every day he strove to enjoy his life between the numerous painful treatments and surgeries he endured. He was a inspiration to other cancer patients, physicians and particularly to his many friends and family who loved him and admired him for bearing it all without a complaint. He did his best to “rally†for all occasions. His family is grateful to Monmouth Medical Center staff for their professionalism and compassion. When Gilbert was 13 years old, his father was struck and killed while crossing a street in South Belmar. A compassionate South Belmar police officer who later rose to become chief of that department looked out for him and was Gilbert’s inspiration to becoming a police officer, always answering a call for help whether on duty of off. A retired Long Branch Police Captain who served the city from 1977 – 2012, he started as a foot patrolman, then Undercover Investigator for the Monmouth County Narcotics Strike Force, Radar Coordinator, Underwater Recovery Team Coordinator, Assistant Patrol Commander, Support Services Commander, Detective Commander, and the first Hispanic Police Sergeant, Police Lieutenant and Captain. He was an instructor at the Monmouth County Police Academy, and he served as a Spanish language translator in the Ocean, Eatontown and West Long Branch courts. He received several Letters of Commendation, a Badge of Honor from the Monmouth County Sherriff’s Office and a City of Long Branch Community Service Award. He was also named Man of the Year by the Latino American Committee of Monmouth County, and was a member of the Long Branch Elks and Rotary Club. After retirement, Gilbert was employed as an investigator by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, Facial Recognition Program, and most recently was an investigator with the Office of Consumer Protection for the State Attorney General’s Office. Gilbert enjoyed playing softball in various leagues throughout the years, playing golf and boating with his wife, Diane, on their Formula Cruiser “R Lighthouseâ€. He served as Commodore of the Long Branch Ice Boat and Yacht Club from 2012-2014, restoring the club after the devastation of Storm Sandy. Gilbert is survived by his devoted wife, Diane Melody Horrach, who adored and cherished him with all her heart, his loving daughter, Jill Horrach and Lisandro Gonzalez, his stepsons Eugene Melody III and his wife Denise, Michael Melody, Adrian Waller and grandchildren Analyn and Sienna Melody and Niles Waller. Also surviving are his mother Maria Webster, brothers Wilfred Horrach and his wife Traci, William Horrach and his wife Marta, mother-in-law Lillian Fitzpatrick, sisters-in-law Kathy Crisp and Walt, Linda Kaiser and Mike, brother-in-law Philip Fitzpatrick and extended family. Good night, 186. Rest in peace. Friends and family are invited from 3-8 pm on Thursday, June 4th at Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street. Long Branch PBA services officiated by Monsignor Lowery will be at 8 pm at the funeral home.. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gilbert’s memory to Long Branch PBA #10, PO Box 4044, Long Branch, NJ 07740. To share a favorite memory of Gilbert or send a message of condolence please visit Gilbert’s Book of Memories at www.woolleyboglioli.com
John Sklinar
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by John Sklinar on 2016/06/04
Luke J. Skunza
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Luke J. Skunza on 2016/06/04
Todd Applegate, Coworker
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Todd Applegate, Coworker on 2016/06/04
Carol
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Carol on 2016/06/04
Chris & Lisa Pirolo
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Chris & Lisa Pirolo on 2016/06/04
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
B. Graves
left a message on June 4, 2016:
R.I.P. Gil! My condolences to your family. You were a good person and will be missed!
Dayna Misso
left a message on June 3, 2016:
A candle was lit by Dayna Misso on 2016/06/03
Rich Bryson
left a message on June 3, 2016:
Thirty-eight years goes by fast; with too few visits and laughs. I'll remember Gil, not only as a hard-working, hard charging fighter, but also with that same zeal for what he cared about, and what made him happy. I am sincerely grateful for having worked with and known him. R.I.P. brother.
John & Mimi Paolise
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Diane And Family; Gil was a great friend and we loved going to dinner with you. Most of all he was my mentor. Doing Chemo together Gil, MIke, and myself. The Girls refered to us as the Three Muskerteers. Diane knowhat he is dong right now. He ison a bot with a beer in one hand and the fishing pole the other. Mike is with him along with oter lost friends.Love you Gil, Miss You Badly. John & Mimi
Janet Forino
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Janet Forino on 2016/06/02
Barby Menna
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Barby Menna on 2016/06/02
Jill & Lisandro
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Jill & Lisandro on 2016/06/02
Joe Mercadante
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Joe Mercadante on 2016/06/02
Jim Clifford
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Jim Clifford on 2016/06/02
Joyce Disbrow
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Diane and family, my deepest sympathy for your loss. Gil was such a brave soul throughout his long battle. It was truly an honor to have been a part of his healthcare team. I know in my heart he is now at peace and looking down as our guardian angel. Joyce Disbrow
Pat O'Connor
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Diane & Family, My sincere condolences go out to you and your family. I've known Gil for quite some time, good man great cop!!! He will truly be missed by all... Rest in peace Gil, say hi to John for me!!! With sympathy, Pat O'Connor
Steven Stone
left a message on June 2, 2016:
My dad used to remind me of a story about when I was 4 years old. It was before kindergarden. Another 4 year old had one of those car trycycles and peddled up to our house. He asked my dad if a little boy lived there and could he come out to play. That was the beginning of our friendship that lasted another 57 years. I know Gil wasn't a public figure in the traditional sense. When I see the speeches of Jim Valvano and Stuart Scott though I know he should be there with them for his courage, optimism and overall goodness. So proud to call him my friend.
Denise and Babe Coyle
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Our condolences and prayers to the Horrach family. Gil was part of our Motor Vehicle family and we appreciate his contributions.
Joe Paglino
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Gil, mi amigo, it seems like only yesterday that we were working cases together in Long Branch with Clarence Castle, Bobby Bataille, Pat King, Ralph DeFilipo, Rick Ferrante, Pat Joyce, Greg Crumrine, and all the other great people at LBPD. Descanse en paz.
Norm VanGlahn
left a message on June 2, 2016:
My condolences and prayers for Diane and the Horrach family. It is truly an honor to have known Gil from the early days of softball to the recent times of the F.S. detail under MVC. Gil always possessed a positive attitude that brought out the best of all he encountered. Rest in Peace my friend.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jules B.Wolfson
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Rest in Peace,Gilbert,you have done your part. Jules B.Wolfson #147 LBPD
Michele Monaco
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Diane, Jill, Wilfred and family, My heart is breaking not only for the loss of my dear sweet friend Gil, but for all of you. Diane your love and strength you exhibited during Gil's illness taught me a lot. I hope you are able to find peace in knowing he really loved you to pieces and he isn't suffering any longer. Thank you for loving him and giving him 6 great years. May his soul rest in peace and God bless all of you. Michele
Wilfred and Traci Horrach
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Wilfred and Traci Horrach on 2016/06/01
Mike and Eileen MacDougall
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Well what can you say about a person like Gill. All of us were better to know a person like him. When myself, my wife,and my family met Gill we knew we had a friend for life. When I was able to meet his family I knew He was blessed. To all of you in Gills family I know how much this pain is. All I can say is when my family was in the same pain of this vicious disease Gill was a voice of support, love, and strength to myself and my family and that is the person he is. We miss you Gill and you will always be in our hearts
Diane Melody Horrach
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Diane Melody Horrach on 2016/06/01
Chief White (retired)
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Gil and I both started police work the same year, he in long Branch and me in Monmouth Beach. We worked side by side on many occasions during our carriers. We also played softball together and hung out after work sometimes. He was a good friend and a very positive person. He helped many along the way and would always go the extra mile. I will miss our conversations and our short talks. Thank you for all that you have done during your short time here. RIP my friend and say hi to Flip for me. Your friend always; Chief White
Michael and Starlene Hudspeth
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Michael and Starlene Hudspeth on 2016/06/01
William, Marta & Jasmine
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by William, Marta & Jasmine on 2016/06/01
Elijah Jenkins
left a message on June 1, 2016:
RIP Gilbert, a son of Lake Como (S. Belmar). A friend,a neighbor.
Lisa and Ryan
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Lisa and Ryan on 2016/06/01
Steven Stone
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Steven Stone on 2016/06/01
Mike Smith
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Gil, my friend when we were 6 and still my friend at 61. I will really miss you, but knowing you are now in a better place provides some degree of solace for us all. My heart now goes out to your loving wife, Diane, your daughter, Jill, brothers Wilfred & Williams, and the rest of your family. God bless and comfort you all.
John jones chief luff
left a message on June 1, 2016:
you were a good friend someone who is kind and caring you were great cop and you always love to help and to take time to show others the way now the angels of come down to show you the way to be in peace and happiness never forget you may God bless you Jonesy
John jones chief luff
left a message on June 1, 2016:
you were a good friend someone who is kind and caring you were great cop and you always love to help and to take time to show others the way now the angels of come down to show you the way to be in peace and happiness never forget you may God bless you Jonesy
Andy and Stacey Derhay
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Andy and Stacey Derhay on 2016/06/01
Trent Davis
left a message on June 1, 2016:
”A Time to Weep” Ecclesiastes 7:2 says: “Better is it to go to the house of mourning than to go to the banquet house, because that is the end of all mankind; and the one alive should take it to his heart.” There is “a time to weep.” (Ecclesiastes 3:4) Yes, the greatest man who ever lived openly “gave way to tears” when his friend Lazarus died. (John 11:35) Those that are broken at heart, who are crushed in spirit, or feel that they have nothing good to look forward to, know that God will respond to you like a loving parent who comforts a child in distress. He is near to his worshipers who cry out to him for help, and is eager to comfort and soothe your broken heart and crushed spirit. God can give you the wisdom and strength needed to cope with any trials you may face. - 2 Corinthians 4:7; James 1:5. Our compassionate heavenly father promises: “I reside with the one crushed and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly ones and to revive the heart of the ones being crushed.”- Isaiah 57:15. So, be patient just a little while longer, help is on the way. Yes, “God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” - Revelation 21:4. A trustworthy promise, given us by our now reigning King - Jesus Christ. Gilbert Horrach would oftentimes display the fruitage of God’s spirt identified by the Apostle Paul at Galatians 5:22, that is, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, and self-control. To his wife Diane, his daughter Jill and other family members, please accept my heartfelt condolence for your loss. I had a great deal of respect and fondness of him. Sincerely, Trent A. Davis, Sr. – BES Classmate 1968
lester manna
left a message on June 1, 2016:
every time that whistle would go off and we were in town gil myself mike looneyt and doug whitte would go racing to the first aid home to help someone in need we were all young kids that was the good old days helping the people of south belmar miss u budy time for u to rest in peace while we leave it to the new kids in town y best wishes to your family during hard times m
Cheief White
left a message on May 24, 2016:
Still thinking of Gil like it was yesterday
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
John Sklinar
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by John Sklinar on 2016/06/04
Luke J. Skunza
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Luke J. Skunza on 2016/06/04
Todd Applegate, Coworker
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Todd Applegate, Coworker on 2016/06/04
Carol
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Carol on 2016/06/04
Chris & Lisa Pirolo
left a message on June 4, 2016:
A candle was lit by Chris & Lisa Pirolo on 2016/06/04
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
B. Graves
left a message on June 4, 2016:
R.I.P. Gil! My condolences to your family. You were a good person and will be missed!
Dayna Misso
left a message on June 3, 2016:
A candle was lit by Dayna Misso on 2016/06/03
Rich Bryson
left a message on June 3, 2016:
Thirty-eight years goes by fast; with too few visits and laughs. I'll remember Gil, not only as a hard-working, hard charging fighter, but also with that same zeal for what he cared about, and what made him happy. I am sincerely grateful for having worked with and known him. R.I.P. brother.
John & Mimi Paolise
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Diane And Family; Gil was a great friend and we loved going to dinner with you. Most of all he was my mentor. Doing Chemo together Gil, MIke, and myself. The Girls refered to us as the Three Muskerteers. Diane knowhat he is dong right now. He ison a bot with a beer in one hand and the fishing pole the other. Mike is with him along with oter lost friends.Love you Gil, Miss You Badly. John & Mimi
Janet Forino
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Janet Forino on 2016/06/02
Barby Menna
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Barby Menna on 2016/06/02
Jill & Lisandro
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Jill & Lisandro on 2016/06/02
Joe Mercadante
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Joe Mercadante on 2016/06/02
Jim Clifford
left a message on June 2, 2016:
A candle was lit by Jim Clifford on 2016/06/02
Joyce Disbrow
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Diane and family, my deepest sympathy for your loss. Gil was such a brave soul throughout his long battle. It was truly an honor to have been a part of his healthcare team. I know in my heart he is now at peace and looking down as our guardian angel. Joyce Disbrow
Pat O'Connor
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Diane & Family, My sincere condolences go out to you and your family. I've known Gil for quite some time, good man great cop!!! He will truly be missed by all... Rest in peace Gil, say hi to John for me!!! With sympathy, Pat O'Connor
Steven Stone
left a message on June 2, 2016:
My dad used to remind me of a story about when I was 4 years old. It was before kindergarden. Another 4 year old had one of those car trycycles and peddled up to our house. He asked my dad if a little boy lived there and could he come out to play. That was the beginning of our friendship that lasted another 57 years. I know Gil wasn't a public figure in the traditional sense. When I see the speeches of Jim Valvano and Stuart Scott though I know he should be there with them for his courage, optimism and overall goodness. So proud to call him my friend.
Denise and Babe Coyle
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Our condolences and prayers to the Horrach family. Gil was part of our Motor Vehicle family and we appreciate his contributions.
Joe Paglino
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Gil, mi amigo, it seems like only yesterday that we were working cases together in Long Branch with Clarence Castle, Bobby Bataille, Pat King, Ralph DeFilipo, Rick Ferrante, Pat Joyce, Greg Crumrine, and all the other great people at LBPD. Descanse en paz.
Norm VanGlahn
left a message on June 2, 2016:
My condolences and prayers for Diane and the Horrach family. It is truly an honor to have known Gil from the early days of softball to the recent times of the F.S. detail under MVC. Gil always possessed a positive attitude that brought out the best of all he encountered. Rest in Peace my friend.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jules B.Wolfson
left a message on June 2, 2016:
Rest in Peace,Gilbert,you have done your part. Jules B.Wolfson #147 LBPD
Michele Monaco
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Diane, Jill, Wilfred and family, My heart is breaking not only for the loss of my dear sweet friend Gil, but for all of you. Diane your love and strength you exhibited during Gil's illness taught me a lot. I hope you are able to find peace in knowing he really loved you to pieces and he isn't suffering any longer. Thank you for loving him and giving him 6 great years. May his soul rest in peace and God bless all of you. Michele
Wilfred and Traci Horrach
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Wilfred and Traci Horrach on 2016/06/01
Mike and Eileen MacDougall
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Well what can you say about a person like Gill. All of us were better to know a person like him. When myself, my wife,and my family met Gill we knew we had a friend for life. When I was able to meet his family I knew He was blessed. To all of you in Gills family I know how much this pain is. All I can say is when my family was in the same pain of this vicious disease Gill was a voice of support, love, and strength to myself and my family and that is the person he is. We miss you Gill and you will always be in our hearts
Diane Melody Horrach
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Diane Melody Horrach on 2016/06/01
Chief White (retired)
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Gil and I both started police work the same year, he in long Branch and me in Monmouth Beach. We worked side by side on many occasions during our carriers. We also played softball together and hung out after work sometimes. He was a good friend and a very positive person. He helped many along the way and would always go the extra mile. I will miss our conversations and our short talks. Thank you for all that you have done during your short time here. RIP my friend and say hi to Flip for me. Your friend always; Chief White
Michael and Starlene Hudspeth
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Michael and Starlene Hudspeth on 2016/06/01
William, Marta & Jasmine
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by William, Marta & Jasmine on 2016/06/01
Elijah Jenkins
left a message on June 1, 2016:
RIP Gilbert, a son of Lake Como (S. Belmar). A friend,a neighbor.
Lisa and Ryan
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Lisa and Ryan on 2016/06/01
Steven Stone
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Steven Stone on 2016/06/01
Mike Smith
left a message on June 1, 2016:
Gil, my friend when we were 6 and still my friend at 61. I will really miss you, but knowing you are now in a better place provides some degree of solace for us all. My heart now goes out to your loving wife, Diane, your daughter, Jill, brothers Wilfred & Williams, and the rest of your family. God bless and comfort you all.
John jones chief luff
left a message on June 1, 2016:
you were a good friend someone who is kind and caring you were great cop and you always love to help and to take time to show others the way now the angels of come down to show you the way to be in peace and happiness never forget you may God bless you Jonesy
John jones chief luff
left a message on June 1, 2016:
you were a good friend someone who is kind and caring you were great cop and you always love to help and to take time to show others the way now the angels of come down to show you the way to be in peace and happiness never forget you may God bless you Jonesy
Andy and Stacey Derhay
left a message on June 1, 2016:
A candle was lit by Andy and Stacey Derhay on 2016/06/01
Trent Davis
left a message on June 1, 2016:
”A Time to Weep” Ecclesiastes 7:2 says: “Better is it to go to the house of mourning than to go to the banquet house, because that is the end of all mankind; and the one alive should take it to his heart.” There is “a time to weep.” (Ecclesiastes 3:4) Yes, the greatest man who ever lived openly “gave way to tears” when his friend Lazarus died. (John 11:35) Those that are broken at heart, who are crushed in spirit, or feel that they have nothing good to look forward to, know that God will respond to you like a loving parent who comforts a child in distress. He is near to his worshipers who cry out to him for help, and is eager to comfort and soothe your broken heart and crushed spirit. God can give you the wisdom and strength needed to cope with any trials you may face. - 2 Corinthians 4:7; James 1:5. Our compassionate heavenly father promises: “I reside with the one crushed and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly ones and to revive the heart of the ones being crushed.”- Isaiah 57:15. So, be patient just a little while longer, help is on the way. Yes, “God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” - Revelation 21:4. A trustworthy promise, given us by our now reigning King - Jesus Christ. Gilbert Horrach would oftentimes display the fruitage of God’s spirt identified by the Apostle Paul at Galatians 5:22, that is, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, and self-control. To his wife Diane, his daughter Jill and other family members, please accept my heartfelt condolence for your loss. I had a great deal of respect and fondness of him. Sincerely, Trent A. Davis, Sr. – BES Classmate 1968
lester manna
left a message on June 1, 2016:
every time that whistle would go off and we were in town gil myself mike looneyt and doug whitte would go racing to the first aid home to help someone in need we were all young kids that was the good old days helping the people of south belmar miss u budy time for u to rest in peace while we leave it to the new kids in town y best wishes to your family during hard times m
Cheief White
left a message on May 24, 2016:
Still thinking of Gil like it was yesterday
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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