Edward J Modetz

Edward J. Modetz, 96, of Aurora passed away peacefully on Friday, January 18, 2019.

Ed was born August 1,1922 in Aurora Minnesota to John and Julia (Barle) Modetz. After Graduating from Aurora High School, he served with the US Navy on the USS Ranger during WWII. His family proudly honors him for his service during WWII.

When he returned from the war, he married Elizabeth Basuris and lived in Chicago, Illinois, where he worked for the Chicago Tribune for 19 years as a printer, in addition to obtaining his tool and die credentials.

He returned to Aurora Minnesota in 1969 after marring Ann Perpich, and he worked as a statistical clerk for the Erie Mining Company where he subsequently retired in 1985.

Ed was an active member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, the Aurora American Legion Post 241, and active community supporter in various capacities. For one year he served as a City of Aurora Councilman, and as an Aurora Cemetery board member for many years. His involvement in Aurora was as lengthy as the long fulfilling life he had.

Ed was a recognized pillar of the community greeting each person with a warm and sincere smile. Known for his fine wood working, he crafted many pieces including the display cases that remain part of the Aurora City Hall. He would deliver candy to residents of the Northern Pines Care Center daily where he was affectionately known as The Candy Man.

Ed is most recently remembered as part of a group of close personal friends who refer to themselves as “The Grumpy Old Men.” As stalwart fans of the Aurora High School basketball and volleyball teams, they would be regularly seen cheering their teams to victory. It is from this group that he leaves many dear friends and team players with enduring memories.

Ed is survived by his loving daughter Elizabeth (Robert) Kultzow of Carlsbad CA, two Granddaughters; Suzanne (Mark) Hosticka of Aurora IL, and Kristine Kultzow of Fairfield CT, two great grand-children; Bradley and Zoe, a step-daughter Nancy Wolf, a step-son John Method, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Julia Modetz, wife Elizabeth, wife Ann, brothers Frank and Henry, and his loving sister Julia.

Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Hope Parish in Aurora on Monday, January 28, 2019 at 10:30am.  Friends may gather one hour prior to the Mass at church. 

Inurnment immediately following Mass at the Forest Hill Cemetery in Aurora. Luncheon to follow at church. Arrangements by Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora.

The family asks that in leu of flowers, donations be made to the Mesabi East High School Athletics Department.