I can truly say that Mike Sackley was the best boss I ever had. He had a big heart and was genuinely invested in seeing everyone's potential. He brought our group together and made us a family. He guided many of us who were just starting out and taught us the importance of responsibility and accountability. Mike was funny, stern, and compassionate. Those memories will always hold a special place in my heart. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. My heartfelt condolences go out to Laurie and the entire Sackley family.

Mike was my 1st boss and when I say he prepared me for this crazy corporate world and I thank him so much for that. One of the most honest and kindest people I've had the honor of meeting. He always treated us ALL like family. We weren't just employees, we were family. You are missed Mike but never will be forgotten. Wendy and Gloria and families.

I am so sorry to hear of this news 
As I am reminded of the many childhood memories at your home and great times with your family 
Tracy may you and your find comfort 
I have and will always love you 
I hope this message finds you 
I been trying for a long time 🙂

I was heartbroken to hear about Mike's passing. Although I might not have been his best friend, Mike was my best friend all through junior high and high school. I have great memories of the times we spent together. Growing up, I spent a tremendous amount of time at the Sackley home on Summit Avenue in Highland Park. They were a warm and welcoming family.  Mike and I did a college tour together to Iowa. He ended up going to Coe College, while I went to Grinnell College. We visited each other many times before he transferred to University of Redlands where he met the love of his life, Laurie. Mike was my best man at my wedding.  Although we lost touch over the years, I feel lucky to have shared so many great memories with him. He will be missed. Laurie, my thoughts are with and your family.

Mike has shaped me into the teacher I am today.  Even though technically I was his mentor, he truly mentored me, guiding and teaching me through his humility, authenticity, and devotion.  He reminded me daily that being a teacher was such a privilege (and you know he believed it, because he showed up every morning at 6:00 am).  He knew how to tailor every lesson to become a teachable moment for both the classroom and beyond.  He chose to do lunchroom supervision, after-school homework club, and even started a ping-pong club--not to get paid, but all in the name of getting to know the kids at Field, building a relationship with them so they knew somebody cared about them.  If a kid didn't have food, he'd buy them something from the lunchroom.  He'd also strategically let kids try their luck at his magnetic dartboard, awarding the whole class a prize if the kid hit the bullseye.  
     I once heard a speaker describe the "gift of teaching," and Mike embodied that so perfectly.  He taught students so much more than just social studies.  He demonstrated how to be "all in," how to really listen and communicate with others, how to think beyond yourself, and how to make a difference by reminding people they mattered, one individual at a time.  I can literally think of at least 3 former students who became social studies teachers themselves to have the kind of impact on students that Mike had on them.
     I have so many cherished memories with and of Mike, but some of my favorites include: 1) when he took center stage at our talent show and played the triangle during an 8th grade number, 2) co-leading the Pilsen walking tour together every year, and 3) stuffing his mailbox with teacher appreciation notes from students every May (because he ALWAYS got the most letters from students BY FAR).  
     What an honor it was to get to work alongside Mike.  I am a better teacher, a better parent, and a better person because of him.

My Heartfelt condolences to you all. Mike was a great joy to have at our Monday night hockey games at Watts, Mike was always positive And a great support for the kids we coached in Glencoe 
Steve, Rick and Natalie Gaines

Mike was a true, loving friend. He was tough as nails and soft as a teddy bear at the same time. I loved him so much, and I will miss our talks, but he will always be with me when I listen to music or watch a ball game.  Laurie and family, I am a phone call away if you ever need anything. 

Love, Rich, Patsy, Sal, Shannon and Gabrielle

During my freshman year, I attempted to cheat in our physical science class examination. .
Needless to say, I got caught by the teacher in a rather funny way in the middle of class, And Mike witnessed the whole episode as it transpired. He thought it was the funniest thing in the world and he was right.
 Whenever Mike and I would touch upon that story, The famous Sackley Cackle (along with his  clapping hands During the laughter) was a certainty. This was even true decades, and decades later. 
That is how I will always remember him. 
No need to hope that Mike’s memory will be a blessing. You can’t help it read the condolences here and not know that is already is.
To all of his family  my deepest condolences.

I'm really sorry to hear about Mike's passing. Sending big hugs, prayers & my condolences to Laurie and the entire Sackley family 🙏 Mike was by far the best Boss, I've ever had! He hired me on the spot in March 1987. He handed me an Application & said to take it home, fill it & send back with Joyce! I started working the next week 🥰 He was a great Boss and a great person! He will truly be missed by everyone who knew him 🥰

I had the privilege of being Mike’s principal.  I remember when he came into the office to interview.  He was a career changer and this would be his first teaching job.  He got there early.  When I went to get him for the start of the interview, he was engaged in conversations WITH kids who were in the office.  It was like magic.  Most candidates just sit quietly.  Not Mike.  He was all about the kids.  I remember thinking, “I hope he knows history because this guy just passed the test about liking middle school kids with flying colors.”  Mike was the full package…and it was a pleasure to see him grow from a “new” teacher to a treasured veteran.  His impact on so many kids cannot be put into words.  He also loved his colleagues (he even let them put him group Halloween costumes - I remember the Baby shark group and the little angel costumes).  He adored his wife and kids.  He glowed when talking about his grandkids.  Mike  was humble, never realizing the force of nature he actually was. He will forever be part of the Field family.

I am completely saddened to hear about Mr. Sackley. I graduated from Field in 2014 and still remember sitting in his class. It was an honor to know him. My friends and I still talk about how memorable he made our 8th grade experience. He was an individual that lit up a room when he walked in. I am so thankful to have known Mr. Sackley and will never forget his positive impact. My deepest condolences to the Sackley family. May he rest in peace. 

Sincerely, 
Leyla

I am saddened to hear about Mike. 
He was bigger than life, always such a positive person with an infectious smile and sense of humor. 
You will always be remembered and missed.

I am sending my sincerest Condolence to all of the Sackley Family. I worked for Mike for over 20 years and he was the best boss I ever had. He had the kindest heart and always treated me with respect.  May he Rest in Peace.  

Sincerely,
Karen Velazquez

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Sackley's passing. I graduated from Field in 2012 and still remember his class vividly. He had a larger-than-life personality that made learning engaging, memorable, and fun. His energy and passion for teaching left a lasting impression on me, and I know I’m not alone in carrying those memories with me for the rest of my life.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences. He touched the lives of so many students, and his impact will continue to live on in all of us who were fortunate enough to learn from him.

Mr. Sackley was the type of teacher who made every single one of his students feel welcome and seen. Many years ago he wrote in my yearbook that I  was "a shining light in a sometimes dark world." To this day, I will never forgot those words. It was single-handedly the kindest thing someone has ever said to me. But that was the type of person Mr. Sackley was. Someone who inspired each and every one of his students and filled us with determination and confidence to impact the world. Sending lots of love.

Mr. Sackley was truly an amazing teacher and will be missed. I still think about his positive attitude and his smile after years. He made my 8th grade at Field a whole lot better. Lots of love and prayers.

Mike was the best cousin around! My entire childhood is filled with wonderful memories of family dinners, family game nights, and just hanging at the Sackley house with Mike, Kathy, Teri, and Tracy! Love you all!!!

Mike was a larger than life presence and personality both in and out of the classroom. He was beloved by his students and immensely respected by his colleagues. He was a fantastic team member and ALWAYS put kids first, always. I respected his candor and life experience as a father - which I believe played a pivotal role in knowing just how to listen, respond, and guide kids with peer situations, homework, or just telling them to, “pull up their boot straps and quit complaining.”  Sometimes he needed to explain his advice, like boot straps, but the kids got it and they knew he cared. Mike was an exceptional teacher because he didn’t talk to the kids, he talked WITH the kids…and boy, he had the stories to go along with his lessons. Sometimes, I would walk in during a class to ask a quick question or deliver some papers. You could hear a pin drop because the kids were that engaged. Mike, the kids were so lucky to have you, I’m confident, as one of the most influential teachers in their lives. Our 8th grade team was so lucky to work with you and along side you. Rest in peace. To Mike’s family, please know he would just beam talking about you - his wife, sons, and grand kids. He touched the lives of so, so many and as a Field school community we are blessed to have so many cherished memories of him.  Love, MaryBeth

Truly was an amazing teacher that has given me and many others memories and lessons that I’ll never forget for the rest of my life rest in peace Mr. Sackley.

My three children were lucky enough to have had Mr. Sackley as a teacher at Field.  He was kind, caring, funny, engaging, and an all around terrific teacher, and he will be sorely missed. May his memory be a blessing for his family and for all of us. ❤️

He will truly be missed.  When I think back to my 8th grade experience, Mr. Sackley is always one of the first people who comes to mind.  He was funny, caring, and always a kid at heart.

Truly the kindest soul.  On behalf of all Fieldies who have had the honor of knowing him, we all loved him very much and will miss him dearly!  Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.

He was truly the most kind hearted, genuine person.  All his students loved him so much and he will be missed!!!!

He was a phenomenal person.  Truly will be missed.

He was a beautiful person with the biggest heart and will be missed dearly.  I'll forever be greatful for his impact.

Sack attack!!  What a sweeheart he was.  This is devastating to hear.  He was th emost caring person and will be missed by SO many.  I will never forget how smiley he was no matter what!   Thoughts and prayers. Rest easy.

So heartbroken to hear this.  Absolutely adored him and his extremely kind nature.  He always looked out for me and was such an amazing funny educator.

May his soul rest in peace.   He was such a genuine, caring, and kind human being.

I didn't have the privilege of being his student but he was loved by all.  May his kind soul rest in peace.

Rest in peace my favorite teacher.  Many thanks for always making th emost funniest jokes and making every day a blast!

The legendary Mr. Sackley!  I am so blessed to have met a soul like you.  You truly were the most caring and loving human being.  You will forever be missed.

Will never forget the memories.  Rest Easy King.

This is so sad, Mr. Sackley was truly an amazing teacher and will forever be missed.  I still think about his kindness and heart almost a decade later!

Once ina lifetime hands down the most amazing teacher I've ever had.  Made me enjoy a subject I usually hate.

Truly an amazing role model, so sad to hear.  No one taught history better than Mr. Sackley.  Will be missed.

Rest in peace to the best history teacher, thank you for all you did and all the amazing memories!  May our soul rest in peace.

The biggest heart ever!! May he rest in peace.

His true emotion and kindness has stuck with me all these years.  I remember his passion and how sincere he always was.  To those who knew him, we still can think of the life lessons he taught us that I don't think we will ever forget.  Sending prayers.

The best to ever do it.  He will forever be missed.

The best history teacher ever.  He was the most kind-hearted soul I've ever known!  May you rest in peace and thank you for all the good you did.

I think about him regularly, he truly impacted me and the rest of his students, he was an amazing teacher and an even more upstanding person.  RIP Sack!

There truly aren't enough words to describe the kind of person Mr. Sackley was.  I hope his family can find solace in the fact that he left this world better than he found it.  Feeling so grateful to have had him as a teacher, the other day I was just thinking about his annual 9/11 class where he shared his story of the day and how much it impacted all of us.  Hope he's resting peacefully.

Such an amazing person.  Sending my prayers.

Rest in peace.  Such a great teacher with the best advice anyone could ask for.

I was literally just talking about Mr. Sackley a few days ago.  He was an amazing teacher and person!  Always put smiles on all of our faces, he will be missed.

My thoughts and prayers during this time.  He was such a special teacher and I will never forget the impact he had.  He will be missed.

Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.  One of the best teachers I have ever had.

Truly one of a kind.  He left a lasting mark on every student he taught and was an unforgettable, loving teacher.  He will be missed.

Rest in peace to a great teacher and an even more amazing person.

He was one of my most favorite teachers.  He inspired me and many others to always make the right choices and leave the world a better place than you found it.  His lessons are something that will always stick with me and many others.  He will be so dearly missed.

The greatest and most caring history teacher ever, he will be missed.

Truly one of the best teachers.  He will be so missed.

The world has lost a wonderful person, teacher, and friend.

So incredibly sad.  Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.

Mr. Sackley left such an inspiring mark on so many Field students.  I have never connected with a history course as I connected with his.  His love for teaching definitely shined through his methods, and I will always remember his class.  He was so easy to talk to and always made me feel supported even when life felt unmanageable.  His legacy will forever live on through all of his students.  I am so grateful to have been taught by him.  Rest in peace.

Mr. Sackley was not only an amazing teacher, but one of the kindest I have ever known.  I remember when during lunch he would come to our table, just to chat with us and to make us smile and laugh.  He will dearly be missed.

Without a doubt the best teacher I've ever had in my entire life by far.  I remember almost everything from his class.  I'd do anything to have one more with him.  Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.

So lucky to have been taught by Mr. Sackley!  Truly one of the greatest teachers and people ever.  When I think about 8th grade I always think of him and his class.  Rest in peace.

Rest in peace to the best history teacher I've ever had and onle of the greatest people I've ever met.

Mr. Sackley was so so kind hearted and always tried to make his students laugh and smile.  I am grateful to have had him as my teacher and I will always remember the positive impact he made in my education and life.  He will be dearly missed.

Very sad to hear this.  An absolute legend and grateful to have crossed paths with him.  His positive impact has and will continue to echo!

Best history teacher ever, rest in peace.

I have so many amazing memories from Mr. Sackley's history class.  He made every day exciting to walk into his class.  Rest in peace to one of the best teachers I have ever had.

Rest in peace to the kindest teacher ever.  He always had a life lesson to teach us and was loved by everyone.  He will be missed but we will always have the amazing memories.

Thank yo Mr. Sackley for everything you've done, not just for me, but for everyone else you've helped in your life.  And because of your kindness and leadership you've shown us over the years, you will always be with us.

Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.  Truly one of the kindest teachers I ever had.

He cared so passionately about history and I remember hearing "we didn't start the fire" by Billy Joel in his classroom for the first time.  Now every time that I hear it play, I think of him.  He was very kind, Ifunny, and genuine.  A lot of great momemts that i look back at.

Mr. Sackley was such an amazing teacher who touched the lives of all the students he taught.

Rest in peace, Mr. Sackley.  Truthfully one of the best teachers I ever had.  He pushed me to become much more confident in myself and I can thank him for so so much.

Forever we will remember you Mr. Sackley!  Fly high!

Mr. Sackley was truly an amazing teacher, and beyond that he was an incredibly kind hearted and genuine person.  Sending my thoughts and prayers.

Rest in peace, Mr. Sackley.  You've been my favorite teacher ever since I've been in your class, and I doubt that'll ever change.  You never would've even begun to comprehend the lasting impacts you've made on thousands of people.  All condolences sent to your family.  You will be missed.

Truly devastating.  He was just an incredible teacher and began my love for history.  Loved when he would play "we didn't start the fire".  Rest in Peace, Mr. Sackley.

Mr. Sackley was truly one of the best teachers I've ever had.  I am so thankful I got to be one of his students.  Thank you Mr. Sackley for making every day feel special.  You will forever be missed.

Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.  Being taught by you was a gift.  I wouldn't love history as much as I do today without you.  You will forever be missed.

One of the best teachers I have ever had.  Not only did he teach us history but things I will never forget.  Mr. Sackley was an amazing human being and he will definitely be missed.  Rest in peace.

Truly heartbreaking to hear.  He was not just a teacher but a mentor in all aspects of life.  Mr. Sackley, we will all miss you so much!

Genuinely one of my favorite teachers I've ever had, and the best history teacher.  I still remember listening to We Didn't Start the FIre in his class.  I'll miss him.  Rest in Peace Mr. Sackley.

Rest in peace, Mr. Sackley.  You were one of the best teachers I ever had!

He was such an amazing teacher.  Rest in peace.

Rest in peace Mr. Sackley.  I loved your class and the way you would tell stories, and how you could make the whole class laugh.  You had a vibe that everyone loved, and made it the biggest joy in the world to be around you.  Your teaching has always stuck with me even throughout high school, and you've impacted my education greatly.  Rest in peace dear friend.

My favorite teacher of all time.  He will truly be missed.

The best teacher and role model.  He'll always be remembered!

This is so heartbreaking.  It is such an honor to have been a student of his.  He was the most incredible teacher and will be so missed.

An incredible person and teacher.  He always made everyone around him feel valued, at ease, and excited to learn.  He will be so missed.

An exceptional teacher who left a lasting impact on all his students.  He will be dearly missed.

Mr. Sackley was truly one of a kind, always looking out for his students both in and out of the classroom.  He was such a gem and he will be deeply missed.  Sending my prayers.

One of the best teachers and mentors I could've asked for.  He will be very missed.

The good ones always go too soon...best Social Studies teacher ever!  He doesn't know how much of an impact he has had on so many of us.  Fly high Mr. Sackster!

This is absolutely devastating!  Mr. Sackley was one of the intelligent and thoughtful teacher that I have ever had in my life as a student.  He made everyone around him feel welcome and he made everyone laugh through his jokes.  He was truly one of a kind and there will never be another like him.  He taught me many life lessons during the time I was his student.  I am forever grateful for his words and his kindneess towards everyone.  We will miss you Mr. Sackley!  May his soul be forever at rest.

Rest in peace to one of the best to ever do it!

Such a kind hearted person & always had the biggest smile on his face.  We will always remember him.  Sending my thoughts & prayers.

Social studies has never been one of my favorite subjects, but he was able to make it fun and memorable.  Such an inspiring teacher.  He will be missed.

Rest in paradise Mr. Sackley.  I'm truly grateful to have met a teacher like you, and have been taught by you.  You will forever be missed.

I was literally just talking to a fellow teacher today about Mr. Sackley and how great a teacher he was, even 13 years later.  That will never change in the hearts of so many students he affected.  We will all miss him.

OBITUARY

Michael Kenneth Sackley

14 March, 1959 – 17 September, 2025

Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services