Guestbook for Robert Modr
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February 18, 2024 | Scott D Mason - Clarksville, Maryland -- United States

Very sorry to hear about Robert's passing. I have very fond memories of my time with him in the Brunswick Junior High School band program. My condolences to the family.

February 15, 2024 | Tina Ellsworth - Brunswick, Maine -- USA

I was so sad to read about Bob's passing.
You think good people should last forever!
I have fond memories of Bob showing me how to make saurkraut from scratch from raw cabbage, salt and wrist oil!!! My son Ben also remembers how patient and talented Bob was when he was taking trumpet lessons from him. On Bob's advice, we bought him a Bannf trumpet which he still has, plays it sometimes but gave it to his son who now plays it in the school band. Bob certainly had an interesting life that he was lucky to share with you. My condoleances to you and your girls.

February 12, 2024 | Tom Gorrill - Saint George, Maine -- United States

I was fortunate to have Mr. Modr for both private trumpet lessons and as a director of music at Orono High school. I was lacking in confidence and shy, but he took the time to encourage and mentor me through that stage in my life. I have thought of him often though the years and realize he was one of the most influential and caring teachers in my life.

Please accept my condolences for your loss.

February 11, 2024 | Marcia Piper Biggane - Bangor, ME -- United States

Dear Hati, Heidi and Robin, I was so saddened to learn of Mr. Modr's passing. I was probably one of his first trumpet students when he came to Orono. I was a Freshman and while I had private lessons in the past he was the absolute best and helped me improve so that I made All State Orchestra as a Jr. and then All State Band as a Sr. His enthusiasm for music was infectious and always encouraged me when others questioned me playing that instrument as a girl. Upon returning to Bangor after nursing school he encouraged me to play in the summer band which was fun. He and Jim Paton played at my wedding and then I have a great picture of me playing a tune next to him with the German Band at the reception.
What an amazing life he led after leaving Orono. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. My sincere condolences for your loss at this sad time.

Marcia Piper Biggane

February 10, 2024 | Jay McCreight - Harpswell, ME -- 04079

Dear Hati and Family, Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of a wonderful man! I first met Bob when I was running for office and giving out leaflets at the door of an indoor (rainy day) concert. He was both welcoming and kind then and always. His contributions to Harpswell are so appreciated. With highest regard, Jay McCreight

February 10, 2024 | Barbara Goodman Krohn - Lewisburg, Pennsylvania -- USA

I was a student of Mr. Modr’s at Orono HS and JH graduating in 1972. He truly “did it all”, band orchestra, chorus, Nova Singers, and I think even Jazz Band! While I sang in jr high and hs chorus, he made the biggest impact on my life when he asked me to play viola at the end of eighth grade. I said OK and I guess I had just been waiting to be asked because I’ve never stopped playing. Continued in college, a couple of community orchestras and played in a string quartet for many years. My sister, class of 1976, also took up viola and has played professionally for many years as well as teaching still. His legacy extends to my sons-both violinists- who still play. One of them is a hs orchestra director- who also plays trumpet!
The breadth and quality of music Mr. Modr exposed us to was truly unparalleled and produced so many high quality musicians. I remember with pride that Orono always had the largest number of participants at All-State.
Thinking of him now, I realize that he was a great example of putting out a big challenge and helping his students rise to it. It was infectious. We all wanted to be part of his groups that were so good.
Thank you Mr. Modr, for believing in me and changing my life and the lives of -most likely - thousands of others.

February 10, 2024 | Carol Hamalainen - Yarmouth, Maine -- US

Dear Hati and family, my sincere sadness over the passing of Bob. Don and I enjoyed our September pot luck dinners at your home, (retired music educators) conversations, laughter and bantering among the guys.
How wonderful that the Bandstand and its musical performances will always be a mainstay and testimony to Bob’s dedication for good music.
Peace,
Carol Hamalainen

February 10, 2024 | Heidi Thorburn - Harpswell , Me -- USA

My condolences Hati to you and your daughters.
My thoughts are with you.
Hank and I both had the true pleasure working with Bob here in Harpswell on the Bandstand and in your home.
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