Erik Modisett's Obituary
Erik Jason Modisett, age 50, of Jefferson, Maryland, passed away unexpectedly on June 3, 2026. Born on July 15, 1975, in Kokomo, Indiana, Erik was raised in Windfall, Indiana, where he developed the strong values, work ethic, and sense of humor that would define his life. He was a proud graduate of Purdue University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree, and later earned a Master's degree in International Affairs from The Fletcher School at Tufts University.
Erik dedicated his life to service. A United States Navy veteran who served during Operation Desert Storm, he went on to build a distinguished career in federal law enforcement spanning nearly three decades. Throughout his career, he served with the Federal Air Marshal Service and with U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Air and Marine Operations, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues across the nation through his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to protecting others.
Following his retirement from federal service, Erik embarked on a new chapter that reflected his passion for learning and mentoring others. He had just accepted a position as Assistant Professor in the School of Applied and Creative Computing at Purdue University and was looking forward to welcoming his first students in the fall semester.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Erik was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Sarah, and took great pride in being the father of their daughter, Olivia. Family was at the center of Erik's life, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. Those who knew Erik knew that he would do anything for Sarah and Olivia. Taking care of his whole family was his life's greatest calling, and he never missed an opportunity to show them his love, support, and unwavering devotion.
Erik possessed a deep love of travel and aviation. As a licensed pilot, he found joy and freedom in the skies, combining his passion for flying with providing national security to our country as he created the Center for Air and Marine Drone Exploitation (CAMDEx), the first ever drone division of the CBP. He was known for his adventurous spirit, his loyalty to friends, and his ability to bring people together. Whether enjoying a good cigar, sharing a bourbon with friends, or exchanging stories and laughter, Erik valued the relationships that enriched his life.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah Marvin Modisett; his daughter, Olivia Lys; his parents, Gregory and Judith Modisett; his sister, Elisha Modisett Kemp; his nephews, Alex and Andrew Kemp; his mother-in-law, Sue Wiggins; his father-in-law Timothy Marvin; his stepmother-in-law Tammy Marvin; his brother-in-law Philip Marvin and family; his sister-in-law Bethany Kniffin and family; and his stepfather-in-law Darryl Whisnand and family.
Erik's legacy is one of service, dedication, curiosity, and love. He lived a life of purpose, embraced every opportunity for adventure, and left a lasting impact on his family, friends, colleagues, and community. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Two memorial services will be held to honor Erik's life. The Maryland memorial service will take place on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Resthaven Funeral Home in Frederick,
Maryland, and will be followed by a Celebration of Life gathering. A second memorial service will be held in Indiana on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Windfall Christian Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by services at 12:00 noon and a Celebration of Life immediately afterward.
The family asks that those wishing to honor Erik's memory consider making a contribution to his daughter Olivia's 529 College Savings Plan. Her Aunt Elisha created an account at https://ugift529.com (code 96Z-X77) or via mail to 18716 Joliet Rd, Sheridan, IN 46069. Supporting Olivia's education would be a meaningful tribute to Erik's lifelong commitment to learning, service, and family.
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