Joel Pensley ’62

Joel died Sept. 29, 2021, in Manhattan, his longtime partner at his side. 

Joel came to us from Polytechnic Preparatory Country Day School in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he was a varsity athlete in soccer, rifle, and tennis. He spent summers attending Buck’s Rock Camp in New Milford, Conn., learning radio, woodworking, and shooting. 

At Princeton Joel was a Keyceptor, a clarinetist in the marching band, and the host of a show on WPRB, the “Pensl Point.” He debated for Whig-Clio, participated in the Flying and Yacht clubs, and belonged to Court Club. 

Joel earned a law degree from Columbia University. He began his career in the Maritime Administration but soon joined an admiralty law firm. He legal work progressed from ship finance, to venture capital, and finally to securities law. Joel taught business law at New York Law School and in the paralegal program at Nassau Community College.

Excepting two years in London, Joel lived in New York City, which he loved in so many ways. He could often be found playing squash or backgammon at the Princeton Club. 

Joel is survived by a daughter and two grandchildren. The class extends its condolences to all.