Melvin Z. Horst, age 81 of Cochranville, passed away on Thursday, October 26, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family.  He was the husband of Arlene Burkholder Horst with whom he was happily married for 58 years.  Born in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Edwin H. and Catharine B. Zimmerman Horst.  Melvin was a member of Millwood Mennonite Church.  He worked as a dairy farmer until 1991 when he owned and operated Horst Grain Roasting.  He worked actively in the business until 2022.  In his free time, he loved golf cart rides at his home in Florida and spending time with people, especially his children and grandchildren.  Surviving besides his wife Arlene are 5 children; Nelson B., husband of Joanne Zeiset Horst, Melvin B., husband of Karen Newswanger Horst, both of Lincoln University, LuAnn B., wife of Richard Zimmerman of Narvon, Glenda B., wife of Herb Weaver of Quarryville, Linette B., wife of Jerry Zeiset of Stevens, 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and a brother; Paul, husband of Margaret Horst of Lititz.  He was preceded in death by 7 siblings; Alta, Nora, Noah, Ezra, Mary, Edwin, and Ada.  A funeral service will take place at Millwood Mennonite Church, 441 Amish Road, Gap, on Tuesday, October 31st at 10 a.m. with a viewing time from 9 a.m. until the time of service.  Pastors Keith Beiler, Eugene Lapp, and Luke Sensenig will be officiating.  There will also be a viewing time on Monday evening at the church from 5 to 8 p.m.  Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery.