Wanita I just learned of Sykes’ passing today as I was talking to an Elder on Walmart in Cochrane. I am so sorry. Sykes way an amazing man so knowledgeable and kind. I will miss her. My prayers to you and your family. Respectfully Fran Byers (emergency management Alberta)

My deepest condolences to the family, for your loss which it truly is. He touched so many lives with his warmth and compassion. I was one of those lives, he didn't judge me for my ignorance of the challenges faced, he guided me to a path to seek understanding and to learn and go forward to make things better. I am forever grateful.

Dearest Wanita, Corleigh and Fred,

My heart is so heavy with the news of Sykes passing. What a light he is to this world. What a gift of wisdom and humour and kindness. So many projects I worked on were guided by his gentle hand. I wave each time I go over the hill and think of you all.

May the beautiful memories lighten the load that the grief journey brings.

With deepest love and admiration,

Lori Craig

My deepest condolences to the family, my prayers and thoughts are with all on this day. I had the honour of knowing Sykes for many years and always was a great support. I will miss my friend dearly.

Mike Lickers

So much love to the family and to all know had the joy of knowing Sykes. From a young age, Skyes guided me to know who I am and to walk in a way that always reflects that. There is not a time that I don't remember Sykes making me laugh. You will always be in our hearts, Skyes.

All my relations!

Lorelei Higgins

Our thought and prayers to the family and friends of Sykes'. Sykes was a trusted neighbour, friend, and advisor to those who knew him. Generations have shared some common history of early days here in Morley.....as non-native neighbours and friends, we respect and have a genuine sense of pride in our Stoney Nakoda roots.....thus our fond memories of Sykes. May he rest in peace.

My condolences to the family who have lost a loved one. A man of great talent whether it’s from being a horseman to being a professional in politics A man who always brought laughter to everyone he met

Sykes choose your favourite pintos and ride him home to that inevitable place.

I will always think of you.

I was saddened to hear Sykes had made his journey to join our ancestors. It was an honour to know him as well as to be in his presence and to learn of his teachings, his knowledge and wisdom, I've learned a lot from him and I am forever grateful, thank you Sykes. You will be missed immensely and you definitely will not be forgotten, especially your positive energy and humour.

My sincere and deepest condolences to his wife Wanita, his children and to the rest of his family who were near and dear to him.

Love and light ❤

Leah Twoyoungmen & family

My condolences to Sykes' family and friends. I knew him but a short while, still, he taught me much wisdom. My memory of Skyes will be of a kind and gentle man and a wise teacher.

Stan Williams

I met Elder Sykes at the Banff Centre in September 2018 during a Truth and Reconciliation Course. His wisdom, leadership, expansive knowledge, and magnetic sense of humour were an inspiration. I will never forget the time I was lucky to spend with him during that week. Condolences to his family, friends, and to the Community at Morley.

D'Arcy Gray

Halifax NS

My heart he was my Hero my world my uncle was the best thing ever since I was born my uncle always telling me what was good and bad and my uncle had a big heart To all of us as his niece I have lots of respect and all I have is lots of memories with my cousin honeybun as I stayed with them in my child hood

My sincere condolences to Wanita and family in the loss of a good friend and mentor. I had the opportunity to work with Sykes in various capacities both politically and administratively. We also socialized extensively whether it be golfing or even playing old timer hockey. A well respected man in many circles. He will be sadly missed RIP my friend

Elder Sykes (uncle) was an extraordinary man with such great wisdom & knowledge of Indigenous Values and Governance. My Short time with him in Canmore hospital was a memorable, I learned so much him and it was his advocacy for better health care for Indigenous people that lead to our Indigenous health program and hospital liaisons, for that I am grateful for.

we prayed and smudged together daily for healing and strength. The creator had other plans and his healing & rejoicing was to be in heaven. I was Honored to help in anyway I could to make his stay comfortable. My prayers and condolences to his family and extended families, to those whose lives he touched.

May the Creator watch over and bless his family with strength.

Love, Kenny House IHL

My condolences to Sykes's family and friends, he was a great mentor and well respected elder in our community. I have had many opportunities to sit and listen to his teachings and advice, along with his humorous jokes. Ishniyes.