Peter Jacob Martinus Modderman

Over 117,000 soldiers from World Wars I and II, the Korean War, Bosnia, Afghanistan and UN Peacekeeping missions have laid down their lives for Canada. These memorial prints are dedicated to honouring those men and women who died, so that we may enjoy the freedom we have today.

www.canadianfallenheroes.ca

Peter Jacob Martinus Modderman (Pete) son of Jacob and Lena Modderman, was born September 22, 1912 in Rotterdam, Holland. Pete immigrated to Canada at age 17, arriving in Ontario to work in a lumber mill. After travelling throughout Canada he made his home in the Cardston district, buying land in the Beazer area. He joined the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion August, 1942. After training at Fort Benning, Georgia Pete got his wings and was promoted Corporal. He later trained at Camp Shilo, Manitoba where he was selected to tour Eastern Canada. While home on leave Peter married Sara Beth Olsen May 27, 1943, and one week later returned to active duty overseas. In England for further training, he became an instructor and was connected with the Intelligence Department. Pete was promoted Sergeant in April 1944. He was killed in action on D-Day June 6, 1944, at the age of 31, as he parachuted over Normandy. Sergeant Modderman is buried at the Ranville War Cemetery, Basse-Normandy, France. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember them.”