"Very sad. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Tammy Gustavson"
In loving memory of
Joseph P. Modjeski
June 14, 1964 - September 11, 2019
Joseph Patrick Modjeski, 55 of Wabasha, died Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at his home.
Joe was born on June 14, 1964 in Winona to Kenneth and Mary (Chelmowski) Modjeski. He graduated from Winona High School in 1983 then attended Winona State where he graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice. From there Joe attended police academy in Alexandria and began his career in law enforcement. Joe proudly served the Wabasha community for 26 years and retired as the Chief Deputy of Wabasha County in 2015. Even in retirement, Joe continued to stay busy working at other part-time jobs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping, and anything outdoors. In 2016, Joe was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of owning his own cabin. They enjoyed many family trips there that will forever be cherished.
Joe is survived by his wife, Sheila; children, Jason (Jessica) Lamey, Bethany (Dan) Gunderson, Rachel (Ethan Rybarczyk) Modjeski, and Cassie Jo Modjeski; granddaughters, Mallory and Brynn; parents, Ken and Mary; siblings, Geraldine (Bob) Duca, Teresa Hughes, and Brad (Missy) Modjeski; nieces and nephews, Amber (Matt) Reed, Anthony (Brittnee) Johnson, Zach and Megan Hughes; great-niece, Victoria; mother-in-law, Debbie Rieck; father-in-law, Roger(Nancy) Rieck; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Anthony and Isobelle Chelmowski, Edward and Victoria Modjeski, Darlene Morrison; uncles Edward Modjeski and Keith Morrison; and aunt, Dianne Morrison.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 PM, Thursday, September 19, 2019 at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka, 625 East 4th Street, Winona. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass. Please leave a memory of Joe and view his video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com. Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Tributes
"Dear, dear Mary and Ken....my heart grieves for you and your family. Blessings of peace for you all. Love, Robin Kahle"
"Just wanted the Modjeski Family to know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I have many fond memories of hanging out with Joe and Gerri. Elli (Lafky) Lindahl"
"I'm thankful for the time I got to know Joe. Joe and his family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Mike"
"My sympathy to the family. So long for now old Goodview buddy."
"My sympathy is with your family during this time of grieving. "
"I did not know him personally, but my prayers are with you all! "
"I remember Joe growing up ! He was so stoic and nice to all us kids always cooking for us him and Shelia did they would let us spend the night and watch movies with cass ,Rachel and what used be lil jason lol we had so much fun I never wanted to leave I wishing had them for my parents !!Jesus Joe why did u have to go out with such a bang you have such a beautiful family who will love and miss long long after gone including me !!you were really something special only god knows our plans and we as people can only respect what he holds in his hands I dont believe this was a cowards way out joe has seen many things people mostly live without !!my condolences go out to the modjeski family as they are left behind to grieve and be angry and go threw all 7 stages to get back to understanding where we go from here ,!!only god knows"
"Strength and prayers to the family and friends of Joe. You were a great person to work with over the years. RIP my friend!! Steve and Kathy Buswell. "
"Matthew 25:v 21 reminds us "well done thou good and faithful servant" Joe indeed was that and so much more. The best features I remember of Joe were his wonderful smile and caring presence. Sending thoughts for peace, grace and comfort as all of you as you struggle with losing him."
"So sorry to hear the news of Joe's passing. I know this is a difficult time for all, but know that we are thinking of you and praying for you. Please be a support to each other so you have the strength to continue on. He will be missed."
"He?s now free of the pain no one but those who have seen in time and time again. Be at peace and receive the love of the creator."
"Sorry to hear of Joe's passing. Sincere condolences to Sheila and family."
"My sympathy is with your family during this time of grieving. "
"We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Joe will be sadly missed by many. We were so proud of him for the wonderful man he was."
"Loving thoughts and prayers for Joe and family."
"Was sorry to hear of Joe's passing, always enjoyed talking to him. Rest in peace brother!"
"Joe was a good man and a wonderful police officer. He raised a loving family and Karen and I will pray for all."
"I am so sorry to hear o Joe?s passing. He was a great guy that served Wabasha and Wabasha County for years. He is no longer struggling or in pain. The struggle and pain now goes to his friends and family. Please know that God is holding you in His mighty arms and that Joe is always with you. As with any illness know it is not to feel it is your fault or that you could have prevented it. Many prayers!"
"He was a very special guy. His bd fit the man he was. I am so proud to have been his aunt. We will miss him. Prayers"
"So sorry to hear of Joe?s passing. We have many great memories with the Modjeski family growing up as neighbors. May he be at peace and be cradled in God?s loving arms. Linda and Scott Johnsrud (Serwa)"
"Family of Joe ~ My sympathy and prayers, God is blessed with his presence. Sincerely, Tammy Seebold"