William E. "Bill" Horst, age 81 a longtime Hobart resident passed away Thursday, April 13, 2017. He was born on November 13, 1935 in Gary Indiana to the late Henry and Frances Horst. Bill served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He retired from USX where he had worked as a Draftsman. After retirement he worked at Rees Funeral Home. He was a longtime member of St Bridget Church and served in many capacities. Bill served as past commander of Hobart American Legion Post 54. He also served in Hobart Civil Defense for more than 10 years. Bill was a NRA enthusiast. He loved his family dearly and was loved by all that knew him.

He is survived by two daughters, Theresa Miller of Plattsburgh, NY; Mellissa Horst-Andric of Palm Harbor, FL; one brother, Thomas A. Horst of Crown Point, IN; one sister, Janet (Jon) Rains of Hobart, IN; two grandchildren, Elizabeth La Pointe, and Alexandria "Lexie" Andric, and loving caregiver and friend, Dee.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy A. "Dottie" Horst.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Bill's honor may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Bill's family would like to thank the staff of St. Mary Medical Center's ICU for all the love, support and compassion.

A celebration of Bill's life will begin on Friday, April 28, 2017 starting with 9:30 a.m. prayers at Rees Funeral Home, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart and proceeding St. Bridget Church for a 10 a.m. mass of Christian Burial with Rev. Dominic V. Bertino officiating. Burial will follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Schererville. Visitation is Thursday, April 27, 2017 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. American Legion Service at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel. Call (219) 942-2109 or online at www.Reesfuneralhomes.com.