Obituary of Derek Sykes
Husband. Father. Grandpa. Son. Brother. Friend.
While these words describe the roles Derek Sykes held throughout his remarkable 87 years, anyone who had the privilege of truly knowing Derek knew him best as one thing above all: a man who lived entirely on his own terms.
Derek passed away peacefully at home on February 25, 2026, a date that held deep meaning, the birthday of his beloved late son, Anthony (Tony) Charles Sykes. He was surrounded by the love of his family in Fort Erie, Ontario, where he spent his final years.
Born on March 20, 1938, into a coal mining family in the village of Upton, England, Derek worked in the mines from age 15 until emigrating to Canada at the tender age of 19. His trademark stubborn streak and quick wit served him well as he boarded a ship to Toronto, alone, in pursuit of a better life. At 22, he joined the Toronto Police Service and over his 36 years, he rose through the ranks to retire as a Detective Sergeant, earning the respect of colleagues with his steady leadership and sharp instincts.
Initially, Derek could appear to have a gruff exterior. But to those who knew and loved him, that exterior was part of his charm. Beneath it lived a “gentle giant” – a warm, generous man with a hilarious sense of humor. He loved deeply, protected fiercely, and absolutely refused to change his ways for anyone. And frankly, the world would have been far less interesting if he had.
In his later years, Derek found joy in simple pleasures – endlessly reading books, driving the Niagara Parkway, sitting peacefully in his back garden, and his personal favorite act of rebellion, “illegally” feeding the ducks and geese at Dufferin Islands every single day. The birds will surely miss their most devoted friend.
Derek is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Maria Eugenia Sykes; his daughter Helen Sykes and son‑in‑law Steve Cumberland; his stepsons Richard Rand and Alexander Rand, his daughter-in-law Jessica Calleja; and his extended family in England. He was proud grandfather of the late Jaida Maeve Cumberland and her brother Wade Sykes Cumberland, David Anthony Sykes, Lucius Anthony Rand, Isabel Marie Rand, Robyn Olivia Rand, Sean Magnus Rand, and Lauren Olivia Rand.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7, 2026, from 2-5 pm at Legends on the Niagara Golf Course (9561 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario). All who knew, loved, argued with, were protected, or given advice by him, are warmly invited to attend.
