Erland Joe Penley

1930-2024

YARMOUTH, MAINE. Erland (Joe) Penley passed away on July 21, 2024. Joe was born on March 24, 1930 in Mechanic Falls, Maine. He was raised by his Aunt Marjorie who lived in South Paris. In 1957, he married the love of his life, Barbara Hunter from Benton.

Joe graduated from South Paris High School and Farmington Teacher’s College where he earned a Master’s Degree and then did post graduate studies at the University of Maine, Orono. He taught school in Skowhegan for a few years before being drafted into the United States Army. After serving in the US Army, he resumed teaching history and began his coaching career. Sports were an important part of his life. He later became Athletic Director at the Middle School. Joe also coached Junior High Basketball and Little League Baseball, as well as officiating sports. He believed that being part of a team was a benefit to all students, and he thought very highly of his team of coaches: Reggie, Art, Dave, Mike, and Mark.

Joe had many hobbies. He was a collector of stamps and coins, restored a 1930 Model A Truck and was an avid reader of non-fiction. He also built a family camp on Unity Lake with advice from his friend, Dick, and his father-in-law.

Joe was a former member of the Federated Church in Skowhegan and served on many boards there. He was also a member of the Bloomfield Trustees in Skowhegan and served many years on the History House Committee.

Joe loved his Skowhegan community. He and Barbara enjoyed the friendship of the Aldriches from South Carolina, as well as many other friends who enjoyed life by playing cards and celebrating special birthdays.

He retired after 38 years of teaching and went on to travel with good friends Faye and Beanie. His favorite trip was a NATO sponsored tour of the beaches and museums of WWII.

Joe is survived by Barbara, his wife of 67 years, his sons Brian (Lisa) and David, and grandsons Samuel and Hunter.

The family wishes to thank the staffs at Coastal Manor and Northern Light Health Hospice for the wonderful care he received.

A Graveside Service for the family will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: Home Care & Hospice, 50 Foden Road, South Portland, ME 04106.

Please visit www.LindquistFuneralHome.com to leave condolences for the Penley Family and sign Joe’s online guest book.