Jerry L. Modderman

Jerry Lee Modderman came in to this world on July 22, 1944 and he passed away on Friday, April 13, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. He was the son of Fred and Hazel (Larsen) Modderman. He was educated in the Alexander School System from which he graduated in 1962. He worked as a carpenter following graduation.

He married Maureen Obrecht in 1964. They then started farming, which he did for 30 years. Jerry did custom farming, carpentry work, raised hogs and became an auctioneer with Mid-Iowa Auction. In 1965, a son Todd was born, and in 1967, a daughter Tammy was born.

In 1993, Jerry and Maureen moved to Polk City, then 3 years later took up residence in Altoona. He then worked as a trim carpenter and handyman for many friends and relatives.
Jerry enjoyed music and sang in the King’s Men Gospel Quartet for many years. He was also an avid sports fan. He loved to watch racing, baseball, golf, and college football and basketball. The grandchildren (Cameron and Abbie) were active in baseball, softball and volleyball. They were on many school and tournament teams and Jerry and Maureen were blessed to be a part of the games and many trips and felt very lucky to always be included.

When Jerry became ill, family would check out the venue to see best ways to get him in and out so he could enjoy the event. He did miss a few games when the weather did not cooperate. Many good friends were made at these events.

Jerry also loved to fish. His brother-in-law took him to Canada two years for trips of a lifetime. He loved it, and was very sad when he couldn’t go anymore due to illness.

He received many awards throughout his lifetime for exceptional service. He served as a board member for the church and the Franklin County Pork Producers. He was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Cross in Altoona.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Maureen Modderman of Altoona; his son, Todd Modderman of Concord, North Carolina and his daughter, Tammy (Brian) Johnson and their children, Cameron and Abbie of Altoona; brother-in-law, Dennis Vanness; sisters-in-law Audrene Hansen, Jacqualine (Gary) Dirks, Martha Statlander and Mary (Paul) Schlicting; brother-in-law, Jeffrey Obrecht (Becky Parrish) and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Hazel; sister, Kaye Vanness; nephew, Joey Vanness and sister-in-law, Colleen Obrecht.

The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home, 105 4th St. SW in Altoona. Memorial Services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 18, 2018 at Lutheran Church of the Cross, 1701 8th St. SW in Altoona.

Memorials in honor of Jerry may be directed to the family.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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