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
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
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
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.
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.
Rest in peace, John. You knew that I loved you.
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.
Dear Modica family,
They laid a good man and humanitarian to rest today.
My prayers are with you at this time of your
sadness.
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
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.
My dear Joan,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
during this difficult time. Love you.
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
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.
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
Johnnie Modica-The finest man there ever was
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
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.
A lifetime is for but a short while.....A good name
will last forever. Rest in Peace Mr Modica. Paul
Diksa Class of '76.
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.
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
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
Brandywine produced 2 giants....coaches that made us
better people, not just better athletes. They are
John Modica and Jay Widdoes.
Two coaches who made a difference...Mr. Widdoes and
Mr.Modica.
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.
Mr. Modica was my favorite teacher at Brandywine. He
was kind and encouraging. May you have wonderful
memories of him.
BHS '74
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.
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
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...
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
Sorry for your loss - my father taught with John for
a number of years - he recently went home to heaven
- Joe Harper.
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
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.
A wonderful father, husband, teacher, and mentor to
all of us who had the pleasure if knowing him.
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.
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
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.
Greatest Coach and Person ever to shine through the
halls og Brandywine!
A true Gentleman. My sympathy and condolences to the
family.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Modica family.
Mr. Modica was a great man and my favorite teacher
at BHS. RIP Mr. Modica.
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
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
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
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
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
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
"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
ONE HELL OF A PERSON & COACH WHO TREATED ALL
STUDENTS AND TEAM MEMBERS WITH RESPECT.
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
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.
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
The meaning of a teacher is this man!
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.
Joan,
Sorry to hear about the loss of your father, you and
your family will be in my prayers.
Jean Young, CHS '81
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....
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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!!
The world has lost a wonderful man but heaven has
gained a beautiful soul ! You will be missed, Mr.
Modica.......
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
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
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
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)
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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
Very sorry about Coach Modia's passing. He was a
great person and coach and will be missed.
Condolences to Mrs. Modica and family.
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.
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.
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.
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.
"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!