Erik Jason Modisett

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 where he developed the strong values, work ethic, and sense of humor that would define his life. He graduated from Tri-Central High School in 1993 and was a proud graduate of Purdue University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management, and a Master's degree in International Relations from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy 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 was embarking 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, having visited six of seven continents. As a licensed pilot, he combined his passion for flying with providing national security 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.

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. A second memorial service will be held in Indiana on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Windfall Christian Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by the memorial service at 12:00 noon. There will be a casual gathering in the fellowship hall 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 available at ugift529.com (code 96Z-X77) or via mail at 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.

Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist the Modisett family in their time of need.