In memory of my brother, Norman Sykes

In memory of my brother, Norman Sykes

Dec 20, 2022

Dear Channel Members and Supporters,

I'm so sorry that I haven't been in touch in recent weeks. My regular face-to-face students are aware that all lessons were cancelled until the New Year following the passing of my brilliant brother, Norman on Monday the 5th December. For this last decade (apart from the pandemic) we played together virtually every week in our own band, Vinyl Tap, in the blues scene and in tribute bands (Norman was an exceptional bass player). We affectionately became known as the ‘Groove Brothers’ and I felt that I got to know him better during these 10 years than in the previous 5 decades.

He took his last trip to play a final gig on Thursday 8th Dec. last in Cavan town where spontaneous applause broke out after the short tribute on his life was read at the cremation service.

I had hurriedly written this on Monday night and Tuesday morning with input from his partner, Helen and my other brother Mervyn prior to us carrying out Norman’s final wishes.

Following his passing on Monday the 5th there was a repose in Tobermore on Tuesday evening followed by a funeral service there on Wednesday with his final trip and cremation in Cavan yesterday.

During what has been some of the most difficult weeks in my life I, and the whole family want to thank everyone who took the trouble to be with us on these occasions. Also everyone who has offered their sympathies, condolences and shared memories, generous comments and reflections on times shared with Norman. Either by text, in a card, on messenger or here via Facebook.

Each one has been gratefully received with thanks. Even though our hearts are broken it helps to know that Norman touched numerous lives, had many great friends and was highly respected and loved by all who really knew him.

We all loved him so much and he will be sorely missed.

As the proverb quite aptly says,

“A good name is better than great riches”

I think this is the finest definition of what a true legend is.

I have attached a link to our short tribute for anyone who would like to read it…and if you wish, feel free to give Norman a final round of applause yourselves too..!

https://alansykesdrums.wordpress.com/2022/12/09/a-short-tribute-to-norman-henry-sykes/

Many thanks, and I do intend to get back to creating more tuition content in due course - so thank you for your understanding and patience.

Alan

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