James Edward Sykes

Our beloved “Grandpa Jim” passed away on April 2, 2018 at the Hospice House in Spokane, Wash., from heart failure.

James Edward Sykes was born February 24, 1940, in Loma Linda, California, to Joyce and Margie (Pless) Sykes. He and his family relocated to Spokane where he attended West Valley schools, graduating from West Valley High School in 1959. He served in the U.S. Army, attended Eastern Washington College (now Eastern Washington University), and worked in the insurance industry for a short time. He later began his 46-year career as a U.S. mail contractor, retiring in 2014.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Joyce and Margie Sykes, his sister-in-law Cecilia Sykes, niece Jody Sykes, and his life companion of 35 years Jerry Reed.

He leaves behind his brother, Joe Sykes (Eleanor) of Liberty Lake, Wash.; daughter, Eileen Gunning (John), grandchildren, Bobby, Megan and Shannon of Alberta, Canada; stepdaughter, Bobbie Reed, grandchildren Nick Godbout, Spokane Valley, Michael Godbout (Buffi), and great-grandchild Rylee of Post Falls, Idaho; stepdaughter, Judy Hines (Chuck), grandchildren Shelby, and Levi, Spokane Valley, and Cassie Hayes of Spokane Valley.

Jim loved holiday get-togethers, barbecues, or any occasion where he could spend time with family and friends. He enjoyed reading, watching movies, and spending time at his property in North Idaho, where he built many friendships while hauling mail to and from there. He had a passion for animals, especially dogs, and would carry dog treats in his pocket and the trunk of his car so he was always prepared for the unexpected visitor!

Jim will be missed deeply by those who knew and loved him so much. Inurnment will be in the Clark Fork Cemetery, Clark Fork, Idaho, next to his companion Jerry Reed. No services will be held at his request, but contributions in his honor can be made to the humane society of your choice.

(Picture compliments of his good, long-time friend, Jessie Garnier.)