Herbert O. Trauth

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Herbert Otto Trauth on May 4, 2025. He passed away peacefully with his children and grandchildren in attendance. Herbert was a devoted father and cherished grandfather. Beloved husband of the late Barbara Trauth, he was predeceased by his sister Eleanor and brother Arnold. He is survived by his son Thomas and loving granddaughters Amanda and Elizabeth, as well as his daughter Donna with her husband Colin and adoring grandchildren Breelyn, CJ, Brendan, Ciaran, and Regan. His sister Edith mourns him as well.

Herbert was born in Clifton, the oldest son of Otto and Thekla Trauth. Growing up, Herb helped to support his family, working on a farm. A self-made man, Herb earned enough to make his way through college and graduated from NJIT in 1950. He served in the US Army during the Korean War, engineering tanks. He was a valued employee at Curtis Wright until his retirement in 1993.

Herbert was a dedicated father to his children, Thomas and Donna; no task was too small, no obstacle insurmountable. A humble man, he would rather invest in his children than splurge on himself; he lived modestly. Yet his generosity to his children knew no bounds, and both Tom and Donna graduated from higher education without an iota of debt.

Blessed with 7 grandchildren, Herbert was often called upon to assist in their care. As always, he was diligent, loving and attentive. He never faltered; he never wavered. He always made himself available, whenever and wherever he was needed.

A resident of Hillsdale since 1972, Herbert was a faithful parishioner of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church. He attended Mass every Sunday in person until he was no longer able. Even in his convalescence, he would tune in on-line to watch Mass with his beloved congregation.

Seemingly quiet and unassuming, Herbert had a quick wit, and a dry sense of humor. He had a listening ear, and sage advice for all that would listen. He had a passion for dance and was known for his grace on the dance floor. He also loved to travel. He traveled the country and he traveled the world! His energy and spirit knew no bounds. He will be missed.

A visitation for Herbert will be held Tuesday, May 13, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675. A funeral mass will occur Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, 69 Valley St, Hillsdale, NJ 07642. A funeral will occur Wednesday, May 14, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 11:45 AM at George Washington Memorial Park, 234 Paramus Rd, Paramus, NJ 07652. Repast will be held at Biagio's following the Interment located at 299 Paramus Rd, Paramus NJ 07652.