Robert H. Herder, affectionately known as Bob, passed away on December 2, 2025, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He was born on January 11, 1933, in Three Bridges, New Jersey. An esteemed member of the community, Bob led a life marked by his dedication to family, faith, and his profession as a pilot.
A proud graduate of Flemington High School, Class of 1951, Bob continued his education at The Citadel, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in 1955. He then served his country bravely in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Captain as a fighter pilot and flight instructor. His service included a year during the Vietnam War with the 1st Air Command Squadron.
Bob embarked on a long and fulfilling career as a commercial airline pilot, spending 22 years with Eastern Airlines before retiring from Kiwi Airlines. His passion for flying extended beyond his professional life; he owned a small, single-engine aircraft and was an active member of the Airline Pilot’s Association. Bob’s love for the outdoors was evident in his enjoyment of the observations of nature, including bird and deer watching as well as appreciating the beauty of flowers.
Faith was a cornerstone of Bob’s life. A long-time member of the Flemington Baptist Church, he cherished his Christian beliefs and spent countless hours in personal study of the Bible. Friends and family often admired his cheerful personality, good sense of humor, and generous spirit. Bob was also dedicated to giving back to the community. His proudest accomplishments included volunteering with the Boy Scouts, serving as a member of the Raritan Township Board of Recreation Commission, and teaching handicapped adults to fly gliders through the Freedom Wings program.
He is survived by his son, David Herder of Cambridge, Massachusetts; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and James Zarick of High Point, North Carolina; grandson Jacob Zarick and his fiancée, Olivia Johnson of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and brother and sister-in-law, Edward and Gloria Herder of Three Bridges, New Jersey. Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara (Bush) Herder, in 2024, and his sister, Anna Holbrook, in 2011.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the viewing on December 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, located at 147 Main St, Flemington, NJ. The funeral service officiated by the Rev. Mayra Castaneda will follow at 12:00 PM at the same location, with a graveside service taking place at 1:00 PM in Three Bridges Cemetery, 470 Main Street, Three Bridges, NJ. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.
Memorial contributions in Bob’s name may be made to the Flemington Baptist Church, 170 Main St., Flemington NJ 08822.
Robert H. Herder will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, commitment to family, and profound impact on the lives of those around him. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing him.