Credit: Schneider Funeral Home
The local firefighting and veteran communities, as well as the Horsham community, are mourning the loss of William G. Gottshall, a dedicated public servant and former member of the Horsham Fire Department, who passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, at the age of 79.
Family and friends celebrated his life with at a funeral service earlier this week on June 2.
Born in Abington and a lifelong resident of the region, Gottshall’s life was rooted in service: to his country, his community, and his family.
A U.S. Navy veteran, Gottshall served during the Vietnam era aboard the USS Wasp, where he took part in the historic Gemini recovery mission. But his commitment to public service didn’t end with his military career. At just 16 years old, he joined the Enterprise Fire Company of Hatboro, beginning a 63-year journey that would see him rise through the ranks to serve as lieutenant, captain, deputy chief, and eventually fire chief across three terms. He was a pillar of the department, serving on the board of directors and playing a key role in organizing the company’s 100th anniversary parade.
His service extended into Horsham, where Gottshall spent six years as a member of the Horsham Fire Department, including two years as a lieutenant. His leadership, experience, and dedication left a lasting impact on those who served with him.
In Horsham and beyond, Gottshall was known not only for his public service, but also for his vibrant personal life, according to his obituary. He adored his many cats and cherished summer vacations in Long Beach Island and later in Brigantine, NJ. His festive Fourth of July and New Year’s parties were legendary among friends and family, as was his love for shuffleboard, volleyball, and Ford trucks. A staunch conservative and meticulous planner, Gottshall was respected for his strong convictions and detail-oriented nature.
Gottshall is survived by his sister Virginia Zollers and her husband Alfred, his twin brother Richard Gottshall, and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom carry forward his legacy of loyalty and service.
