Coach John Modica Obituary Guest Book March, 2013
 

March 22, 2013

Mike and the Modica Family

We were so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad and wanted to express our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

My brother Chris took his art class in summer school when he was in elementary school. He has mentioned many times that the first thing he remembers is although he was a child, he treated him with the respect of a friend. In class, he would patiently work with everyone to bring out the best in them. He had a loving spirit that was magnetic.

We also remember how deeply talented, passionate, and versatile he was in all the many endeavors he undertook. Knowing him as a teacher, it was a surprise that he was also a champion football coach. Later we found out all the continuing success he had in community leadership and are still amazed at all the roles he was a success in.

I have many great memories of your dad that I will always remember. His life truly reflected the life of a man of faith.

We wish you grace, peace, and healing in the coming years.

Tracey Gibson Reinbold and Chris Gibson

 
 
March 10, 2013
Grace and Modica Family -

What a guy!! To lose Michaelcewiz, Pollari, Dutch Houser, and Bill
Fentzloff recently has conjured such fond memories. They were all "good guys" and John was one of the best. I send my sincerest condolences to Grace and the family. We had a lot of fun together over the Mt. Pleasant and Brandywine years.

Lee Eldredge
 
March 09, 2013
Dear Grace & family: with his last breath on earth, taking his first breath in heaven, Coach Modica will continue to live on in our hearts through his numerous gifts of inspiration to all he touched. My family will forever be indebted to Coach reaching out to my brother, Sam Lawton, back in 1961, by extending him the priviledge of being the football team's 'water boy'. Without Coach's unfailing acceptance, inspiration & friendship, Sam would not be all that he is today. Thank you for sharing your husband and father over the past 50 years. May God richly bless you in your sorrow.

Ginger Lswton Hudson, BHS Class of '68
 
March 08, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of John's passing. I always enjoyed talking to him at Charlie's different events or the family's special events. He was so personable and made you feel special. He was a wonderful person who gave so much to others and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.Karen Oberly.
 
March 07, 2013
I am saddened to learn of Mr. Modica's passing. Such a truly nice man, a great art teacher and a wonderful coach at BHS. Rest in peace.
 
March 07, 2013
Rest in peace, John. You knew that I loved you.
 
March 06, 2013
Dear Modica family, We were all very blessed to have John Modica on the hilltop routing for his Vikings and #9. He was a great friend and true inspiration to us and the St. Elizabeth football team. Such a wonderful, genuine man. He will forever be in our hearts. Our prayers are with you.
 
March 06, 2013
Dear Modica family,
They laid a good man and humanitarian to rest today. My prayers are with you at this time of your sadness.
 
March 06, 2013
Modica Family,

So sorry to hear of Mr. Modica's passing. I have many fond memories of spending time with Joan at your home, seeing Mr and Mrs at the UD games or around town.

The entire Wittig Family will keep you in our prayers.

Robert
 
March 06, 2013
John Modica was a family hero to the Chavensons. He taught art to my sisters Gita, Rayzee and for me, I remember the BHS Humanities Seminar. My mother Goldie Chavenson adored John and Grace and volunteered as an election monitor under his Democratic tutelage. He came to Goldie's funeral 5 years ago. We often saw him at the Booths Corner Farmers Market He is truly a family hero and shall be missed.
 
 
March 06, 2013
My dear Joan,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Love you.
 
March 06, 2013
Mrs. Modica, Michael and family. I am sorry I cannot be with you to celebrate the life of such a great man! All will miss him but will always remember what a tremendous role model he was to so many! A great American to! My prayers are with you all.

God Bless,

Hank Winchester
 
March 06, 2013
My condolences to the Modica family He gave us the glory of those early years of BHS football. We all were happy to cheer for him and his team. I was able to know him as an art teacher as well as a boss at Radnor Green Swim Club. He touched so many of our lives.
 
March 06, 2013
Mike and Modica family,
I'm so saddened to hear of your dad's passing, but I know you take comfort and pride in such a full life and caring legacy. When I arrived at Brandywine as a new student in 1972, the art room quickly became a favorite spot because of Mr. Modica's warm welcome. He embraced all styles, and was the first art instructor in my experience to champion contemporary art. I came to appreciate his nonjudgemental attitude and creative viewpoint. As a painter and art professor myself, I hope I convey such positive enthusiasm to my own students. I know he will be greatly missed! You're all in my thoughts today,
Sharon Trumbull, BHS Class of '75

 
 
March 06, 2013
Johnnie Modica-The finest man there ever was
 
March 06, 2013
John, quite simply you were the best. From all of us in the Democratic Party and Legislative Hall, thank you for being a part of our lives- we had some great times together and a lot of laughs.
And all the while- you always insisted on making sure we take care of the people who needed the most. You were a great friend and will always be missed. Joe Farley,Sr
 
March 05, 2013
I was saddened to learn of Mr. Modica's passing. He was my art teacher when I was a student at Brandywine ('69), and I remembered his encouraging words before I went on to college to major in art.

Years later I loved seeing him whenever I ran into him after high school, college, marriage and children; he always remembered me with a terrific warm greeting. His endearing way always made my day. When I think of him, I recall his kindness, gregarious personality, his smile and voice.

My late father always had a special gesture he reserved for one-of-a-kind people like Mr. Modica. He would make the "ok sign" with his fingers and wink. When I think of Mr. Modica, I put him in that category of people who were one-of-a-kind. Special people like him are unforgettable; they always have a place in your heart. I think of the word "elegant" when I think of all the things he was.

Mr. Modica certainly had a life well-lived and touched many, many people with his affection. I hope that in these days ahead, the Modica family will be comforted by his legacy and spirit through the unique connections you shared.

The world is a little bit quieter without Mr. Modica.

Prayers and condolences to the Modica family.
 
March 05, 2013
A lifetime is for but a short while.....A good name will last forever. Rest in Peace Mr Modica. Paul Diksa Class of '76.

 
 
March 05, 2013
Coach Modica's broad career reflected his many talents. Each one had at its heart helping others grow and get along well. He was a great guy.
 
March 05, 2013
I was glad to be among the hundreds at the viewing this evening. I was privileged to have Coach Modica as my coach for the 4 football seasons of 1958-1961. Back then I discouraged people from calling me "Bobby", but when Coach Modica called me that, it was an honor!

"Bobby" Johnson, Class of '62
 
 
March 05, 2013
We were privileged to have known Mr. Modica as a teacher and a coach. We will especially treasure our visits with him - hearing the love and pride in his voice as he talked about the "golden years" at BHS. Like his friend, my Uncle Wayne Pollari, he was a true gentleman and a great teacher and leader. We will miss Mr. Modica and send our sympathies to Mrs. Modica and the family.
Joan Winchester and Scott Walker, BHS '69
 
March 05, 2013
Brandywine produced 2 giants....coaches that made us better people, not just better athletes. They are John Modica and Jay Widdoes.
 
March 05, 2013
Two coaches who made a difference...Mr. Widdoes and Mr.Modica.
 
March 05, 2013
Condolences to Coach Modica's family on the passing of this good, good man. I got to know Coach Modica through his good friend and my Mt. Pleasant coach, Wayne Pollari. Coach Modica was always warm and friendly even to us who competed against him and he was always ready either to kid about the old Mt. Pleasant vs. Brandywine days or talk about current affairs. As his students are writing here, we at both Brandywine and Mt. Pleasant were very lucky to have been led and guided but such exemplary men as Coach Modica and Coach Pollari.
 
March 05, 2013
Mr. Modica was my favorite teacher at Brandywine. He was kind and encouraging. May you have wonderful memories of him.
BHS '74
 
March 05, 2013
My sincere sympathies go out to Grace Modica and her family. Grace is a special gem liker her husband. I worked with her and truly am asking God to protect and take care of her. John D. Modica was a great, respected, helpful, kind, resourceful, thoughtful and genuine gentleman. He was an asset to the Brandywine School District. A great friend to all. He will be missed as he worked for the people with service. Micheal Modica is a man of dignity also and is following in his Dad's footsteps with the people. God bless and keep them enfold in His arms.
 
March 05, 2013
Mark, I was so sorry to hear of your father's passing. I will always remember him fondly. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family
 
March 05, 2013
BHS Class of 66
RIP Coach Modica...I'm glad I was able to see Mr. & Mrs. Modica at our 45th class reunion Sept. 2011...
 
March 04, 2013
I am very proud to say that I played under Coach Modica and with a wonderful team. I learned so much from him as a person and as a player. I tried to pass on those special qualities to teams I coached and children I raised . Thank you Coach Modica. My thoughts and prayers are with the Modica family.
 
March 04, 2013
John was a true gentleman, excellent role model, and a unique man. I had the privilege/challenge of playing against his teams when I was a player at Wm. Penn (class of 1966). I worked with John in the 1980s and he always was an inspiration. John's life made such a positive impact on so many.
Fred Kern

 
 
March 04, 2013
We of the BHS family are so blessed that we had a role model who set the banner so high! Coach is a legend, and we are all so fortunate that we have a sentence or two in the Book of John Modica! Thank you, Coach! Job well done. Now rest in Peace.
 
 
March 04, 2013
My sincere condolences to the family. I never took an art class but often ended up in his class because he always made you feel welcomed---what a kind,gentle man he was.
 
March 04, 2013
I am sorry for the passing of John and pray for his family, friends, and all of the people on whose lives he had such a powerful, positive influence. I celebtate his life, knowing that he continues to live within the depths of my soul. Our first association was in 1957 when he was a new teacher in the Alfred I. District (now Brandywine) and I was a 12 year old student of his. For six years I was a student of his and have continued to stay in contact with him and his wife Grace. Teaching me art was only a small part of what he modeled for me as a person and, not surpising, my life ended up parelleing his in many ways as a carrier Navy sailor, artist, political involvement, educator, and person of faith. I have heartfelt thanks for his life and his influence on mine. I treasure him and honor him and our time together.
Deacon Bob Leonzio, BHS 1963

 
 
March 04, 2013
I did not have Mr. Modica as a teacher, but his coaching and mentoring skills were outstanding. All teachers should read these condolences and see what a truly gifted teacher and coach he was and should strive to be more like him. All of the Brandywine HS students loved him.

BHS Class of '67
 
 
March 04, 2013
This news today brought tears. After reading the words expressed by so many, I can't add very much that hasn't already been said. Katherine Pease Ware here perfectly sums up my own gratitude and affection: "Mr. Modica's Art room was not only a place to discover and develop artistic skills, but also a sanctuary where you felt at home and cared about." I needed a sanctuary as a kid, and he instinctively recognized and responded to that need in me and in others. Art and Music were my world, and thanks to Mr. Modica, my greatest dilemma became deciding which field to pursue as a career. Although music won out, I've thought of him so often, and even in recent years, when my brother would meet him at places like the Arden Fair, he would ask about me. My sincere condolences to all of his family, along with my deep gratitude for the legacy and spirit of this most exceptional teacher and human being.
 
 
March 04, 2013
I wanted to send my condolences to the Modica family. "Coach" Modica seemed to be the "real deal" - a successful coach, compassionate teacher, loved by his former students, respected by his peers, actively engaged in the community where he lived and worked his adult life. He seemed the embodiment of the �life well lived�. Kevin Donohue, Brandywine High School, Class of 1967.
 
 
March 04, 2013
What a great man who touched many lives's and will be greatly missed as another one of our heroes from the greatest generation departs us. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate this diffcult time. RIP John
Deepest of sympathy,
Debbie Bankhead
 
March 04, 2013
I got to know Mr. Modica after competing against his teams through my own football coach, Wayne Pollari. Coach Modica was always warm and friendly--always ready to share banter and memories of Mt. Pleasant vs. Brandywine in the early days. Condolences to the Modica Family and thanks, Coach, for being the friend, leader, and exemplary citizen that you were over the years.
 
March 04, 2013
I'm writing on behalf of my parents (both of whom have passed), my brothers (Coach Modica coached 3 of us), my sister and my teammates (for Coach Modica's outstanding 1964 undefeated season) when I say that Coach Modica was an outstanding leader, coach, friend, mentor and teacher to all he ever met. He truly cared about us all and reached out when it was needed. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I will always feel that he was a member of our BHS Class of 1965.
 
March 04, 2013
My deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. Modica. I learned so much from him, as an art teacher, a faculty advisor, and most importantly as a person. He was truly one of the kindest people I've known, and I've thought of him often over the years. I hope you find comfort in knowing that there's one more angel in heaven watching over us. I know I do.
 
March 04, 2013
One of the nicest people one could ever meet- he was a gentlemen,- served with him on the Maplewood senior Housing Board and always enjoyed his insights on on a variety in subjects. Proud to have known him and call him a friend- rest in peace John
 
March 04, 2013
Sorry for your loss - my father taught with John for a number of years - he recently went home to heaven - Joe Harper.
 
March 03, 2013
Everyone loved Mr Modica and in this year of our 50th BHS reunion memories of his fine character and spark will ring loudly as we honor his life with us in the 1960's
 
 
March 03, 2013
A terrific man, teacher and coach. I got to know Coach Modica during my days and BHS and always enjoyed talking with him; he was well-versed on many subjects. BHS was blessed with an excellent faculty and Coach Modica was right there with the best of them. He will be missed.
 
March 03, 2013
A wonderful father, husband, teacher, and mentor to all of us who had the pleasure if knowing him.
 
March 03, 2013
It didn't matter whether you were on one of his football teams or in one of his art classes, Mr. Modica (or, "Coach" as he was equally well-known) cared about you as a student and a person. He was among the best examples of a teacher as counselor, mentor and example. His passion and dedication to Brandywine and its students was always evident -- and one of the reasons why we all consider our shared years at BHS to be the "best of times." He was special and made us feel that we were too. So many of us share with his family both the sense of loss in his passing, and the sense of pride in his living. Thanks, Coach.
 
March 03, 2013
From John, Joan and all the Gaynors
When we think of the Modica family, we have so many wonderful memories and thoughts of raising children and grandchildren. The Modica family and our Chalfonte friends go hand and hand and we will miss John dearly.
Fondly,
The Gaynors of North Wilmington, Delaware
 
March 03, 2013
Thank you, Mr Modica, for reaching out to my family when our brother died. Thank you for never forgetting that little sisters need to hear stories about their big brother. Thank you for your support, your clarity and your big, big heart. You touched our lives with your kindness.
 
 
March 03, 2013
Greatest Coach and Person ever to shine through the halls og Brandywine!
 
March 03, 2013
A true Gentleman. My sympathy and condolences to the family.
 
March 03, 2013
When my mother called and told me of Mr. Modica passing, I felt a sadness at first and then joy for having known him. I will always remeber the wonderful smile he had and the love and support he had for his family. He leaves a wonderful legacy in his family, players and all that knew him. Prayers are with the family.
 
March 03, 2013
Mr. Modica will be missed by many of us. He was a role model for young men and women and enjoyed life to the fullest. Please accept my deepest sympathies. Peace to all.
 
March 03, 2013
Mr. Modica was one of the nicest and most energetic people I knew. He always had a smile and kind words for everyone. The kind of person you couldn't help but be happy to be around. He will be greatly missed.
 
 
March 03, 2013
Mr. Modica's Art room was not only a place to discover and develop artistic skills, but also a sanctuary where you felt at home and cared about. Thank you, Mr. Modica.
 
 
March 03, 2013
I met John Modica at BHS as my art teacher (I graduated '73). After college we played pick up basketball at Hanby Jr High with the likes of John DosPasos, Greg Pierce, the Oberles and other like minded types. I saw John from time to time over the years and was always impressed by his positive caring spirit. RIP Mod
 
 
March 03, 2013
Mr Modica was a great example to the rest of us. He was a wonderful teacher and a caring person. I am sorry to hear of his passing and send my condolences to his family.
 
March 03, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the Modica family. Mr. Modica was a great man and my favorite teacher at BHS. RIP Mr. Modica.
 
 
March 03, 2013
As a high school student, the thing I remember most about Mr Modica was, it didn't matter if you were a jock, cheerleader, class president, class clown, loner, stoner, straight, outcast, outspoken, introvert, dork, braniac, freak, long-haired, short-haired, pimply, whatever, he made all of us feel good about ourselves. And how important is that to feel as a high school student? RIP Mr Modica.

Erik Heim
BHS '75
 
March 03, 2013
Dear Grace and family. I remember John as a kind, cheerful and friendly person we would see occastionally at nearby restaurants, and Wes had the honor of teaching with him in the old glory days at BHS. We send you love at this very sad time. Jane and Wes Diemer
 
March 03, 2013
Many fond memories of BHS and the art teacher that nurtured our creativity with his caring style of teaching. I am so thankful for the early years of training in his classroom. Just last week I was reminded of how crucial nurturing can be as I taught a silk painting workshop for the homeless to heal. Your family is in our prayers. Mr. Modica's example and spirit lives on in us all....With much sympathy,
Deborah Mezger Gavron, BHS'72
Rob Gavron BHS'70
 
March 03, 2013
I loved discussing Notre Dame football with Coach. We met at PT plus and continued our friendship at the JCC. He was such a wonderful person with so much kindness. God bless his family. Mike Brown
 
March 03, 2013
I loved discussing Notre Dame football with Coach. We met at PT Plus and continued our friendship at the JCC. He was such a wonderful man. God bless his family. Mike Brown
 
March 02, 2013
The world has lost a wonderful man, but the memories will remain. Mr. Modica, thank you for making my years at Brandywine so special and memorable. You were the greatest!
 
 
March 02, 2013
My heart goes out to Mr. Modica's family. He was one of the dearest men I have ever known. His kindest and encouragement will never be forgotten. I hope his family finds comfort in the fond memories so many of us have from his days as our teacher and mentor.
 
March 02, 2013
We were saddened to hear John's passing. If ever there was a model for how to live life, John's was it. His enthusiasm, caring, energy, generosity, selflessness was genuine and made a mark on everyone he met. He loved life! And we loved John.
Grace - our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

--- Don and Ann Weber
 
 
March 02, 2013
Mr. Modica was one of my all-time favorite teachers. I had the good fortune of taking an summer art class with him when I was in elementary school. He discovered my love of football and invited me to be the assistant manager of the Brandywine high school football team, an unimaginable thrill for a 6th grader. By the time I hit Brandywine my interests had changed--as had the world--and football no longer meant much to me, but Mr. Modica was still interested in and supportive me as a person. He played a special role in my life and I will always remember him with great fondness.
 
March 02, 2013
Mr. Modica was the kindest and most encouraging teacher I ever had at BHS. My heart goes out to his family. I hope they will find comfort in all the fond memories of his many students.
 
March 02, 2013
"Mr. Modica" was an inspiration to me. He was always a gentleman and always thoughtful of others. He taught the most inspiring course in my high school career: "Humanities: how art, literature and music interrelated with each other throughout the history of mankind. The tag team of 4 BHS teachers created a syllabus which gave multi-dimensions to history. At the end of the course, we took a field trip to NYC, including a trip through Harlem, Central Park, Broadway and Mama Leone's Italian Restaurant.

We also bonded because my daughter Rachel did her undergraduate work at Edinboro University.

I always enjoyed talking local politics with Mr. Modica...even though we were technically each members of the opposing (political)teams. He always said: "you are one of my boys and that is much more important than politics". It brings tears of joy to my eyes to think about him. Rest in peace, Mr. Modica !

Bob Weiner, BHS Class of '68

Brandywine Hundred County Councilman 1996- present

 
 
March 02, 2013
ONE HELL OF A PERSON & COACH WHO TREATED ALL STUDENTS AND TEAM MEMBERS WITH RESPECT.
 
March 02, 2013
Grace and family, Joe and I are so sad to see the passing of John. I have so many wonderful memories of being neighbors, BHS, and what wonderful friends you were to my mom and dad and how much they thought of both of you- John will certainly be missed, he was loved by so many
and just such a special person who touched so many lives. May the Lord bless your family through this difficult time- Love to all of you, Joe and Carol Findley Rifon
 
March 02, 2013
I met John when he was going to PT Plus. He later left to join the JCC. I remember as a kind man with a wonderful sense of humor. I am deeply saddened to learn that he has passed. Please accept my sincerest condolence on your loss.
 
 
March 02, 2013
Grace and family- Joe and I are so sad to see the passing of John. I have such wonderful memories of you being neighbors besides so many days at BHS- I remember when the kids were small
, so many wonderful football games, and how much my parents always thought of both of you. I want to express our sincere sympathy and may the Lord
bless all of you in this difficult time- our love, Joe and Carol Findley Rifon
 
March 02, 2013
The meaning of a teacher is this man!
 
March 02, 2013
I never even had an art class at BHS while there 1974-77, but Mr. Modica was a ball of energy and enthusiasm even while traveling thru hallways of the building. His friendliness, courtesy, and always smiling,cheerful face and demeanor was such a positive and uplifting brush encounter whether in a hallway, at a corner, or "booking it" to or from the parking lot. A true educator, and heckuva nice guy. My sincere sympathy, and nothing but fond memories, as I reflect on his example during those years.
 
March 02, 2013
Joan,

Sorry to hear about the loss of your father, you and your family will be in my prayers.

Jean Young, CHS '81
 
 
March 02, 2013
So sad to hear the news of John's passing. I hadn't seen John, or just Mod as we called him, for some time, but I fondly remember our weekly basketball games at Hanby and the JCC, mixed in with talks of Delaware politics, education, art, and life in general. He was and always will be an inspiration to those whose lives he touched...and who will ever forget his classic two-handed set-shot from way outside! My prayers and condolences to the Modica family. RIP Mods....
 
 
March 02, 2013
What a great teacher and all around good guy. Hoping his family, friends, and former students will find comfort in happy memories.
Anne Neely Beck BHS '67
 
March 02, 2013
I met John Modica at BHS as my art teacher (I graduated '73). After college we played pick up basketball at Hanby Jr High with the likes of John DosPasos, Greg Pierce, the Oberles and other like minded types. I saw John from time to time over the years and was always impressed by his positive caring spirit. RIP Mod

 
 
March 02, 2013
Mr.Modica was a wonderful man,an inspirational teacher and an all-around terrific human being who will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. Our loss is now Heaven's gain. My sincere condolences to his family.
Fondly,
Paula Winchester
BHS '67
 
March 02, 2013
I was saddened to hear of John's death. I will celebrate a triduum of Masses for him. I will come to the viewing on Tuesday; if it is okay with you, I would like todo celebrate at the Mass on Wednesday.
Sincerely, Fr. John Kowalewski, OSFS
 
March 02, 2013
He was a wonderful man, teacher, and dear friend of my Dads. The next reunion will not be the same without him. Rest in Peace Mr. Modica.
 
March 02, 2013
My prayers and thoughts are with your family mark, I'm so sorry, your in my prayers and thoughts always R.I.P. John you were really loved and will be missed terribly !!! School friend of mark Modica god bless Marianne Zito
 
 
March 02, 2013
As a member of the 1960 Co-champs football team, I am so proud to have played for, and learned from, coach Modica. But his true greatness was as a man and a teacher. He never met a person he wouldn't help. He is everything you would ever want in your high school experience. I am so glad he came to our 1961 class reunion and the 50th reunion of our Blue-Gold game.
My prayers of comfort to the extended Modica family...how proud you all must be of such a fine person!!
 
March 02, 2013
The world has lost a wonderful man but heaven has gained a beautiful soul ! You will be missed, Mr. Modica.......
 
March 02, 2013
I know that you will never be forgotten by all your football players and fans alike. I will always remember the fun talks that you and Grace and I shared over the past several. God be with all your lovely family. You will
never be forgotten by me. You and Grace will be forever in my deepest and most sincere and loving thoughts and prayers. I will really miss you!
March 2, 2013
 
 
March 02, 2013
He was a great man who inspired many a youht down a more productive path. I have many fond m emories of him. So sorry for your loss.

BHS Class of '67
 
 
March 02, 2013
Dear Grace,

May I offer condolesences for your family's loss, indeed a loss felt by all former friends from Brandywine. As our 50th reunion will occur in August, our class had the honor of being the first class to go through BHS from 9th to 12th, and to observe Coach Modica as a role model and inspirational figure in our formative lives. I can remember both how pleasant he was on most occasions, and only on those when discipline was in order did he act both sternly and decisively. Her commanded everyone's respect, and personally I am glad to have known him.

J. William Breen, BHS 63
 
March 02, 2013
Mr. Modica was a kind and caring teacher who inspired me and whose guidance helped me decide to be an art major in college. I always remember him so fondly. (BHS class of 1063)
 
 
March 02, 2013
John was a model educator in and out of the classroom, encouraging the young and the young-at-heart, in every aspect of his life. His love of people was contagious.
 
March 02, 2013
Sending prayers to the entire Modica family. He always had a smile even when he was not feeling up to par. We all will miss him at Delaware Family Care. Anita Gery
 
March 02, 2013
To the Modica Family, know that "Dad" will be dearly missed, but for those of us that he taught, coached and mentored he will always be here as we pass on what he taught us.
 
 
March 02, 2013
Grace,

While we've only known John for a relatively short period of time it has been an honor to have him as a friend and neighbor.

Our condolences to you and your family.

Gary & Colleen Cohen
 
March 02, 2013
To the family of Coach Modica: hold the wonderful memories in your heart as you remember a life well-lived. I'm a member of the BHS Class of '64 and proud to say I knew him.
 
 
March 02, 2013
Mr. Modica was an inspirational teacher and mentor. 50 years later, he is still remembered with respect and kindness by his students. Thanks for founding our Bulldogs excellent art program and proud football program! (Class of '64)
 
 
March 02, 2013
Dear Grace & Family, so sorry to learn of John's passing. He was a great guy and will be missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
 
March 02, 2013
John and I grew up together on the lower west side of Erie and were great lifetime friends. We entered the service about the same time and we both graduated from Edinboro University and pursued teaching and coaching careers. John was the main person who convinced me to attend college. When I married, he was my best man. I will always cherish the great memories I have of John and of our times together. He was a great friend, a great teacher and coach and a great person. In short...he was the best. I will miss him very much and I send my love and condolences to Grace and John's family.

Paul Foust
Erie, Pa.
 
March 02, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Modica's passing. I loved him as a teacher, and admired him as person. I was glad to read a summary of his life's accomplishments. He used his skills to do good work in so many venues. My Dad also called him a friend. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
 
March 02, 2013
Coach Modica was a special coach, lobbyist and friend. I had the privilege of playing against him when I was a player at Wm. Penn. He was a true sportsman and role-model for all. He was also an outstanding lobbyist in Dover and will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to his wife, children and extended family.
Sincerely, Bruce Reynolds
 
 
March 02, 2013
Very sorry about Coach Modia's passing. He was a great person and coach and will be missed. Condolences to Mrs. Modica and family.
 
March 02, 2013
I'm so sorry to learn of Mr. Modica's passing. I knew him through his work in Legislative Hall. He was such a gentleman and always a pleasure to speak with. I offer my sincere sympathies to his family. God Bless.
 
March 02, 2013
John was an individual who fought for the 'little guy'. His passion for teaching and helping people from all backgrounds was unsurpassed. Above all, he was an honest and moral human being who will be remembered by many. Thanks, John...rest in peace.
 
 
March 02, 2013
Mrs. Modica, we are so sorry to see this news. Mr. Modica had quite an impressive r�sum�. But what's more impressive was his warm personality and humor whenever we saw the two of you. Our thoughts are with you.
 
March 02, 2013
The Gaynors love Coach John Modica. When we lost our youngest brother Grant he was there for us. What a great man and a great family.
 
March 02, 2013
 
 
March 02, 2013
"Your dad was such a great guy and I am so sorry about your loss. He had a great sense of humor and always seemed so happy and full of life. He will be missed very much by all of us who knew him." He was one of the Best Directors we worked for at Department of Labor... God Bless!
 
 
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