Brad Leslie Sykes

Brad lived a full life with no regrets. He passed away on August 4, 2025 at the age of 74, surrounded by his family. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on April 15, 1951 son of Morse and Marjorie (Hansen) Sykes. He graduated from Belding High School in 1969 and continued his education at Grand Valley College where he was on the golf team. Brad was a man that liked to work with his hands and in 1971 he took a job at Braman Construction. He was proud of the many residential homes and commercial buildings that he helped build. In 1973, he met the love of his life Janice (Heffron) and married her on February 8, 1974. They had two daughters, Shannon (Biergans) and Sherry (Sbraccia). Being a husband, father, and provider was what he valued most in this world! He worked tirelessly for Meijer Warehouse for forty years, providing a wonderful life for his family. In 1986 he got his builder’s license so he could design and build their forever home. He was a crew of one and completed the construction in five months all while working his full-time job. Brad knew the value of hard work and the importance of rest and leisure! His greatest joys were golf, hunting, and spending time in nature, surpassed only by the love he had for his grandchildren. He was his grandkids biggest fan! Brad passed down countless life lessons to his children and grandchildren, ranging from the deep value of family to the finer points of golf etiquette. An excellent golfer, he proudly played in the Western Golf Outing and was often found in his yard hitting golf balls, mowing the lawn, calling turkeys, or scouting for deer. Whether you were family, a friend, or even a stranger, if you needed something Brad was there. He cared deeply about what truly matters in life: being dependable, accountable, selfless, and humble. If you knew Brad, you knew you had someone you could count on. He cared for his family in quiet, steady ways, never seeking recognition and we know he’ll continue watching over us with that same quiet strength. Brad is survived by his wife, Janice Sykes, daughters Shannon (Pat) Biergans and Sherry (Dave) Sbraccia. Grandchildren Nathan, Kevin and Owen Biergans and Anthony and Sophia Sbraccia. His brother Stewart (Janet) Sykes. Brother-in-laws Dick Edmonds, Tim (Janet) Heffron, sister-in-law Sheila (George)Wright, Christina Heffron, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Morse Sykes, mother Marjorie (Hanson) Sykes, and sister Robin (Sykes) Edmonds. Those wishing to honor Brad’s memory may do so by making a donation to The Lisa Foundation for Brain Aneurysm or the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation. Immediately after the Mass, the family invites you to join them for a luncheon at Ledge Meadows Golf Course. Included is the link for the live stream for the service: https://www.youtube.com/live/d5fVgXDRQK8. In honor of Brad’s love for the game, golf balls will be available on the driving range so friends and family can take a swing in his memory and if you hit a good one, don’t forget to say it like Brad would’ve: “Now that was a REAL golf shot.”

Brad Leslie Sykes

April 15, 1951 - August 4, 2025