David E. “Dave” Sankey of Plover died peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, December 1, 2018 in Florida while visiting his family. Age 69, Dave was born June 10, 1949 in Stevens Point. He was the son of the late Edward and Marian (Eiden) Sankey. He attended local schools graduating from P.J. Jacobs High School in 1967.  Dave entered the United States Army on May 13, 1969 in Milwaukee, WI. He served as a Sergeant with the Battery A 5^th Battalion 67^th Artillery Comp. He was honorably discharged on May 12, 1971 at Fort Bliss, TX. He then served four years in the Army Reserves, completing his obligation on May 12, 1975. Dave received the National Defense Service Medal, the Sharp shooter Expert Rifle Badge and the Good Conduct medal.

Dave married the love of his life, JoAnn Firkus on October 2, 1971 at St. Bronislava Catholic Church in Plover. After their marriage the couple settled in Plover moving to New Port Richie, FL in 1984, returning to the Plover area in 1986. His wife JoAnn preceded him in death on July 16, 2003.

Dave owned and operated David Sankey Construction for many years, and also worked for Ellis Stone until his retirement in 2011.

Dave was a member of the St. Bronislava Holy Name Society, and the American Legion Plover Post 543. He served on the Board of Directors for the American Legion Baseball Post 543 for over 20 years.   In addition, he was a volunteer member of the Plover Fire Department for over 20 years.

During his retirement he enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, watching the Packers and most of all spending time with his children and grandchildren who he loved with all of his heart.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his name to the American Legion Post 543 or to Ministry Home Care Hospice would be appreciated.

Survivors include his son Edward (Karissa Scott) Sankey of Plover, Amy (Cris) Glasgow of Ft. Myers, Florida, and Christina (Brian) Glock of Plover.  His five grandchildren Trevor, Bryce, Harley, Riley and Emily.

Further survived by his Sister Judi (Bob) Polum of Plover and Brother Charlie (Judy) Sankey of Plover.  Brothers-in-law Joe (Barb) Firkus of Stevens Point, Jerome (Lisa) Firkus of Stevens Point, Dan (Alyssa) Firkus of Nephi, UT and Jeremy (Andi) Firkus of Amherst and Sisters-in-law Jane (Stanley) Biadasz of Amherst, Doreen (Larry) Skrzypkowski of Plover, Dolly (Dave) Peper of Amherst, Donna (Kenny) Sankey of Stevens Point, Jackie (Steve) Sirek of Stevens Point, Janice (Don) Anderson of Stevens Point, Dawn (Keith) Dziak of Plover, Joyce (Jim) Demski of Stevens Point, Jeanine (Matt) Jakusz of Champlin, MN and Jodi (Dennis) Olszewski of Stevens Point.  He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and good friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife JoAnn and an infant son.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, December 14, 2018 at St. Bronislava Catholic Church in Plover. Rev. Ed Shuttleworth officiating. Burial with Full Military honors will be in the St. Bronislava Parish Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. Friday morning until the time for mass. The Pisarski Community Funeral Home in Plover is honored to be serving the family. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.pisarskifuneralhome.com

The family wishes to thank Ministry Hospice Care of Plover and Hope Hospice Care of Ft. Myers, FL for their loving and heartfelt care with each and every visit.  May God bless you all for the work you do everyday.