Thomas M. Modrak

Thomas M. Modrak, 78, of West Chester, formerly of Alliance, Ohio, died of leukemia on Thursday, Oct. 28, 2010.
Born in Canonsburg, he was the son of the late John J. Modrak and Anna (nee Domsic) Modrak.
Tom was a professional engineer who holds numerous patents in the field of research and development. He worked for Babcock and Wilcox for 32 years, before retiring in 1987. Tom was often called on for his expertise on nuclear power plants throughout the United States. He holds numerous patents in the area of fluidized bed.
After his retirement in 1987, he took a position with Raytheon Engineers Inc. where he was a consulting mechanical engineer. He continued to work in the field of research and development until he retired from that position in 1989. Up until the last five years, he continued to consult as an expert in the field on an as-needed basis.
Mr. Modrak was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, during the Korean War. He was assigned to the Army's division of intelligence. He was honorably discharged.
He attended Pittsburgh University for two years. He graduated with a bachelor of science degree from Rochester Institute of Technology and holds a master's degree in business management from Kent State University.
He was a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
A former Eucharistic Minister, Tom was a man of deep faith. He was active in the Catholic Church his entire life.
He was a lifetime member of the Elks.
He loved to garden, watch football and take care of his family.
His daughter, Deborah K. Modrak, predeceases him.
Survivors include his loving wife, Rosella A. (nee Henry) Modrak; children, Terry L. Modrak (Diane), Pamela M. Jardine (John Jr.), Laurie A. Modrak and Lisa R. Modrak; siblings, David Modrak, Paul Modrak, James Modrak, Joseph Modrak, Robert Modrak and Mary Alice Cross. He is also survived by six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and after 9 a.m. on Wednesday at The Donohue Funeral Home, 1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, 610-431-9000, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at Ss. Simon & Jude, 8 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester.
Internment will be in Ss. Peter & Paul Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Joan Karnell Cancer Center at Pennsylvania Hospital, c/o Arthur P Staddon, M.D., 230 W. Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
Online at www.DonohueFuneralHome.com.