Missing The "Captain Of The Island" Bill Sandole

To the editor: After visiting Nantucket for almost half a century, I haven't been able to get myself to step a foot back there. At least for now, the unique and quaint beauty and charm of the island that brought my brother William Sandole (Bill) there near 50 years ago is shadowed by his passing last year at the young age of 72. Absolutely everything that was ever experienced there is associated with him. From the first day that he set foot on the island of Nantucket, he instantly fell in love, dug his heels, and quickly became a resident. With every visit to see him, he would tour me around with great enthusiasm, sharing with obvious pride all of what he fell in love with. It was no longer just Nantucket to him; it had become HIS island, his home! He absolutely loved everything about it, and with his gregarious personality and entrepreneurial talents, it wasn't long before he made his mark. There wasn't a place that we would go where someone didn't know him and would greet him with a huge smile, a strong handshake, or a big hug. Being my older brother of six years, I had always had an admiration for so many things about him. When he went into the service and off to college, I used to cry myself to sleep. Hanging on the island with him and seeing how much he was known and loved only reinforced my admiration. With great pride, I loved being introduced as his sister.

There was always just something very special about him and the way that he was with people. He was genuine, down to earth, non-pretentious, interesting, humorous, and very caring. It also didn't hurt that he was also smart, accomplished, a musician, and handsome. And yes, with all of this being said combined with his charm, excellent cooking skills, and songwriting talents, he also never had a problem meeting women who were drawn to his wonderful gifts! Bill was definitely loved!

A year and a half after his passing, I am still grieving his loss. From a person like Bill, who was so greatly respected and loved and such a huge part of the community, the island also mourns his loss, the man who I would call "The Captain of the Island."

As part of my ongoing memoir writings about him, I have received numerous responses from people who have crossed his path (which has probably been most of the island) and who have shared the most heartfelt, incredible stories of their connection with him. All testimonies to who he was all about. As well, there are many people who now reside on the island that would not be there without his introductions to this beautiful piece of New England along with him lending a hand, even financially, to help get people situated. Bill always had an incredible soft heart and put it into action. Living in a place known for its wealthy natives and residents, he never forgot what it was like to grow up poor and was not only willing to work hard for everything he accomplished, he was quick to help others.

He owned and ran the most popular retail seafood establishment on the island and, no matter how busy, always took the time to chat with his customers. Even though his days would begin at 4 a.m., he never complained and only shared his love for what he did, along with his love and appreciation for his patrons. Again, with admiration, I would stand as an observer and want to blurt out, that is my brother!

There isn't a place or activity on the island that doesn't have the memory of him ingrained. Whether it be his favorite watering holes, beaches, business establishments, jeeping through the dunes, sunset picnics, strolling downtown, trips to all the small quaint towns of the island, or for him to be doing what he loved the most, cooking his fantastic homemade meals for his guest and then entertaining them by plucking away at his guitar or playing his piano accompanied by lots of singing.

Hopefully, one day, I will be able to return to what he considered his "beautiful spot of the world" without the gut-stabbing pains of loss and embrace the memories. But for me and for now, Nantucket "IS" Bill, and without him greeting me at the boat like he did a zillion times, well, the thought of venturing back there without him there feels more like trudging barefoot over the cobblestones of Main Street.

However, no worries. I trust one day that I will get back there and feel him all around me, guiding me along the way as he always had. Besides, if you knew Bill, especially through his illness with his attitude of bravery, fortitude, perseverance, and impatience for excuses, it wouldn't surprise you that he is already nudging me to get back on the horse and to take him with me, not with my pain or fears, but side by side re-visiting all of what he loved about the island and all the wonderful memories...and in return, keeping him alive! Bill, yes, you've always had a plan! Your forever so proud sister! Miss and love you so much!

See you around the island, Bill!

Deborah Greenslit