Leonard “Len” Wayne Modder

Leonard “Len”, passed away on August 8, 2024, at the age of 90 in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Born on March 22, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois, Len led a life marked by dedication to his family, education, and community service.
Len attended Kohn Elementary School and graduated from Chicago Vocational High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Chicago Teachers College and a master’s degree from Northwestern University. His commitment to education was evident throughout his multi-decade career as a high school wood shop and drivers’ education teacher and as an administrator in the Chicago Public School System.
A proud veteran, Len served as a Petty Officer 3rd Class (EN-3) in the US Navy from 1956 to 1958, in the Submarine service. His military tenure instilled in him a sense of discipline and service that he carried into his civilian life.
Len was deeply involved in community service. He grew up as a Boy Scout, rising to the rank of Life Scout and Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow. He founded BSA Troop 688 in Evergreen Park, IL and spent weeks each summer taking the Troop to Owasippe Scout Reservation. He also took a group of scouts to Philmont Scout Ranch.
His leadership extended to serving on the Evergreen Park, IL elementary school board, including multiple terms as president. Len was an active member and Deacon at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Evergreen Park.
Upon his retirement he and his wife Frances (Fran) split their time between Fountain Hills, AZ, where Len was a member of the Men’s Club and Post 7505 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Mt Massive Lakes Fishing Club in Leadville, CO. Len was an avid woodworker, known for his furniture creations and carvings. He also enjoyed golfing and global travels with Fran and friends.
Len was a loving husband to Frances (nee Bartosik) Modder for 64 years. He was a dedicated father to John (Lynnette) Modder, Kirkwood, MO; Sandra (James) Setzke, Glen Ellyn, IL; Donald (Elizabeth) Modder, Annandale, VA; and Julie (William) Stenzel, Naperville, IL. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Andrew Modder, Daniel, Brian, and Michael Setzke, Hannah, John, and Kathleen Modder, Will and Alex Stenzel. Len is also survived by his brother Roger Modder, sister Marilyn Broll, and many nieces and nephews.
Len was preceded in death by his parents, John and Martha Modder and his daughter, Linda Marie Modder.
Len was a longtime supporter of St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Len’s memory can be made to St. Jude’s at www.stjude.org
A memorial service celebrating Len’s life will be held at a future date.