Robert Horst, December 24, 1934 - October 15, 2022

Robert William Horst of Wanatah, Indiana, Preceded in death by his devoted and faithful wife of 68 years, Annette Velora (Eagle) Horst.  Parents Margaret (Doffin) and William Horst, infant sister Patricia Horst, sister Wilma (Horst) Reed, Sister-in Law Georgia Mae (Eagle) Tangeman, brothers-in-law Robert Reed and Maynard (Bud) Tangeman, beloved nephew James Reed and dear niece Carol (Tangeman) Sawyer.  Survived by children: Michael (Cindy) Horst, Velora Robinson, Lynn Horst, Mark (Mary) Horst, Lucie Whitlow.  Grandchildren: Jennie Horst, Jason Robinson, Katherine Velora (Tim) Webb, William Robinson, John Robinson, (Mark Suraiya) Robinson, Edward (Abby) Horst, Bethany (Ryan) Fisher, Paul (Lily) Horst, and Daniel Joseph Whitlow whom Robert named after his own grandfathers.  Robert cherished his 11 great grandchildren, 10 nieces and nephews, numerous great nieces and nephews, and foster brother John Zuberski.
Robert’s fondest memories were of his bucolic childhood on the family homestead, growing crops, raising his 4-H animals, making cider and attending Catholic school being taught by his beloved Sisters. In his early years, Robert served as a choir boy and server, and assisted in building numerous Catholic churches in the Crown Point and Merrillville areas. He was a dedicated and accomplished 4-H member reaching awards of Grand Champion in many areas.  After high school, Robert graduated from Purdue University (Boiler up!) with a degree in Agriculture Sciences and education. He loved to share many memories of these years at Purdue. While attending college he married the love of his life, Annette Eagle. He often told his children, “From that very first date, I knew she was THE ONE!” From that love came a large family that continues to expand.
Upon receiving two master’s degrees from Ball State University in Education and Guidance Counseling, Robert taught biology, physical science and agriculture at Clinton Township Union Mills High Schools and South Central School Corporation He served as the Purdue Vocational Agriculture Agent throughout LaPorte County. He was a passionate 4-H leader and mentor guiding his students to national championships. Robert continued career at LaPorte High School as a guidance counselor until his retirement. He was dedicated to guiding his students and their families. He was a very active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Wanatah, and served his community as an elected official and on numerous boards and committees.
Robert was a very accomplished carpenter, plumber and electrician. There was nothing he couldn’t build or fix. He owned a construction company and along with business partner and friend Roger Smith, constructed numerous homes. His final large construction project was building Annette’s dream home from the ground up.  Robert enjoyed bird watching, family fishing trips to Wisconsin, traveling the country with Annette, and growing the perfect garden.  Robert appreciated the wonders of life, the beauty of nature, and love and God and family. His fierce dedication to his family is his greatest legacy. 
Visitation will be October 20, 2022,9:30-10:30 one hour prior to a funeral mass at Sacred Heart Church Wanatah, with graveside dedication at Sacred Heart Cemetery.  Donations can be made to Father Blaney’s Share Foundation, Rolling Prairie, IN.

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