Obituary of Russell M. Hecht

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Russell Mark Hecht. Russell, aka Russ,
was born in Newark, NJ. He passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, at the age of 94.
Russ graduated from the Rutgers College of Pharmacy in 1954 and became a registered
Pharmacist in 1955. He had a career in Pharmacy that spanned forty years. He owned
Boyton Pharmacy in Maplewood, New Jersey, which he bought in 1958 and owned it until
1964. Russ then joined Lane Drugs in 1964 as a partner. Lane Drugs started with 5 stores
and eventually expanded to 24 stores in Ocean, Monmouth and Burlington counties.
On January 1, 1956, Russell married the love of his life, Rita Loretta Pilger. They were
happily married for 41 years, until her passing in May of 1997. In 1999, he married Carol
Bernstein until her passing in 2004. He was also a companion to Florence Mintzer from
2007 to her passing in 2023.
Russell is survived by his three children, Bruce (Gabriella), Ira (Julie) and Gail (Craig). He
was also stepfather to Greg (Cindy), Susan (Kenny), Howard (Barbara) and Cindy (Pat). He
was blessed to be a grandfather to 6 amazing grandchildren, Jared (Caity), Sabrina, Erica,
Danielle, Rachel & Ross and 6 bonus grandchildren Austin, Ali, Robbie, Gage, Graham,
Riley and Chris.
Russ was dedicated to his family and his friends. He was a loving father, husband,
grandfather, uncle, step-father and friend. Russ had a strong connection and love for his
Jewish religion, the spirituality and the community that surrounded him throughout his life.
Being part of the temple choir or singing in communal groups, his beautiful voice was
inspiring and endearing to all.
Russ was a kind man who was loved by all who knew him. To know Russ was to know
kindness, compassion, empathy and love. Being In Russ’ life, was a true gift to all. His
smile, laugh and big heart were always on display.
He will be dearly missed by everyone, most especially his loving family.