Byron G. "Barney" Modlin, 88, passed Wednesday evening, March 16, 2011, following a brief illness at the Ball Memorial Hospital. He was born on August 16, 1922, in Logansport, Indiana, the son of Walter R. and Myrtle (Sands) Modlin.
As an infant Mr. Modlin and his family moved back to Muncie where he graduated from Muncie Central High School in 1941. Following graduation, Barney enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served with the 704th Tank Destroyer Battalion Company C. Mr. Modlin saw combat in North Africa, Nazi-occupied Rome and Southern France. His division was part of the Battle of the Bulge and the Rhine River Campaigns.
Barney met and eventually married the love of his life, "Liz" Sarah Elizabeth (Umberger) Modlin on July 6, 1946 at the home of his uncle the Rev. Charles Modlin in Daleville. Mr. Modlin went on to work for Chevrolet in Muncie having served as a Tool Maker for 39 yrs. retiring in 1980.
He is a former member of the Royerton Optimist International Service Club, the Moose lodge of Muncie, and enjoyed bowling in a senior's league at the Muncie Lanes. Barney was an excellent wood worker, and earlier in his life, was an avid photographer. He was known as being very mechanical and would tackle most projects without any hesitation.
Besides his wife of 65 yrs. Elizabeth, he is survived by his son, Dan Modlin (wife-Diane), Burbank, California and his daughter, Deah Modlin, Indianapolis; one grandson, Daniel Modlin, Pomona, California; several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Carl and Ernest Modlin; two sisters, Retha Cavin and Martha Modlin.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2011, 1:00 p.m. at the Parson Mortuary with Pastor John Young Officiating. Burial will follow at the Gardens of Memory north of Muncie. Military honors will be provided by the Delaware County Honor Guard.
Friends may call at the Parson Mortuary on Tuesday, March 22, 2011, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. until service time.
Memorial contributions may be made to Charity of the Donor's Choice.