Obituary of Joel D. Sankey

Joel D. Sankey, 77, passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2025, in Bangor. He was born on March 29, 1948, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of Gordon L. and Roberta R. (Leathers) Sankey.
Joel grew up in Minnesota and proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1970. After his service, he earned his degree from the University of Maine and became a dedicated resident of Brewer. A passionate educator, Joel devoted over 50 years to teaching history at Bucksport High School, where he was beloved by generations of students for his engaging stories, deep knowledge, and unwavering support. In addition to teaching, Joel was a respected coach, mentoring student-athletes in football, basketball, and track at Bucksport High School, Maine Maritime Academy and Bangor High School. One of the proudest moments of his coaching career came in 2004, when he led the Bucksport Golden Bucks to a Class C State Football Championship—a victory that brought tremendous pride to the school and local community. His players remember him not only for his strategies and leadership, but also for the life lessons he instilled on and off the field.

Joel had a deep love of history, sports, and community. He was known for his quick wit, warm sense of humor, and strong moral compass. He found joy in time spent with family, following New England sports, sharing stories from the classroom and the field, and rooting for the underdog. He especially enjoyed golfing in his free time, often hitting the course with his best friend, Charlie Dickey, with whom he shared many laughs and memories. He left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege to know him.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Ann Sankey of Brewer; his daughter, Heather Attenweiler of Apex, NC; his son, Christopher Sankey and wife Karen of Middlebury, CT; and three grandchildren, Justin Attenweiler of Morrisville, NC; Elizabeth Sankey of Asheville, NC, and Jacob Sankey of Brooklyn, NY. He is also survived by his brother, Douglas Sankey and wife Melody of Spearfish, SD; along with many nieces and nephews. Joel was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Barbara.

A memorial service to celebrate and honor Joel’s life will be held 6 PM Friday, May 30, 2025 at Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, 15 Event Center Way, Brewer with a reception time immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Bucksport High School Athletics, 102 Broadway, Bucksport, ME 04416. Messages and memories may be shared with his family on the tribute wall of kileyandfoley.com.

Joel’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched as a teacher, coach, veteran, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed.