Donald M. Moder, 85, passed away at Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare in Wooster, Ohio on February 24, 2026, after an extended illness. Don was born on November 14, 1940.
Don earned a PhD in Education and was a teacher, coach, and principal for 30 years. He was known as a pioneer in vocational education who had a passion for his staff and students. He retired from education and became a real-estate agent. When he closed his real-estate business, he worked at D&S Distribution, Inc. until he fully retired in 2020. Don was an avid golfer and collected historical and antique golf items.
Those who knew Don remember his steady presence, wisdom, and positive attitude.
Don is survived by his wife, Peggy Moder, his children Annette Ramsey, Amy (Jim) Kovach-Steele, Darrin (Monica) Ganyard, his granddaughters, Caitlyn Kovach and Olivia Ganyard and his grandson, Calvin Ganyard, his brother William (Patsy) Moder, sister in law Janet Grandy, brother in law Steve (Suzie) Ellis, brother in law William D’Anniballe, sister in law Beverly DeTorio and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Max and Edna Moder, his first wife, Betty, his sister, Betty McKnight and brother, Jim Moder.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
McIntire, Bradham & Sleek Funeral Home 216 E. Larwill St., Wooster is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcintirebradhamsleek.com.
Peggy, I’m heart broken to learn off Don’s passing. What a wonderful man he was. I know he shared moments with my dad at the golf course! I sure they will hit the links in heaven! If you need me please feel free to reach out!!
Love and prayers sent your way!
Donna Nye
Peggy & Family;
Keeping you all in our thoughts & prayers. Rudy really enjoyed golfing with Don in the Riceland Sr League & we’ll always have fond memories of working together in Real Estate. He will be missed!!
Peggy, I’m so sorry to hear about Mr Moder! I loved him as a principal and a friend after graduation!
Anne and Amy,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. I remember him well from our high school years , always such a nice man. My heart and thoughts are with you.
Peggy,
So very sorry for the loss of Don. Peace to you and the family.
Peggy and family, so sorry to hear about Don’s passing. Praying that you find comfort knowing that his suffering is over.
Annette,
Sorry for you loss and deepest sympathy on the loss of your father
Christine Victoria Frye -Dotson
Sending my condolences..don was a wonderful man who always put students first.
Peggy and family. I’m very sorry to hear about Don. You two had lots is laughs together! Hope he is enjoying golf in heaven. Take care my friend.
Peggy and family. We are sorry for your loss. Peg and Bert Mahaffey
I met Mr. Moder through Anne. He was a nice man; engaging, interesting, fun to be around and a very smart man. Mr. Moder will be deeply missed.
Don was my first supervisor at the Wayne County Career Center. We had a great time opening the school. My sympathies to Peg and daughters.
Peg, I was very sorry to read about Don. You and your family have my sincere sympathy. He touched the lives of many people.
Peggy, So very sorry to hear of your loss………. Hugs and prayers are with you and the family, and wishes for comfort and courage.
Dear Peggy,
Dave and i were so sorry to hear about Don. We remember our school days and you two being the
kind neighbors who watched our house while we were in Florida. We are thinking of you.
Kathy and Dave
I remember Mr. Moder fonding. Sorry to hear of his passing.