Gene Sykes age 89, died at the home of his son in Inkster, Michigan. He was a heavy equipment operator who enjoyed traveling from Michigan to his home in Kentucky and sitting outdoors watching his dogs.

Mr. Sykes was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mary Sykes; one brother, Forest Sykes; three sisters, Juanita Sykes Ratliff, Gladys Sykes and Valey Mullins.

Survivors include his son Bobby Owens and Amy of Inkster, Michigan; significant other of 32 years, Linda Owens and her daughters Rebecca Stickley of Oak Hill, Ohio, Kristy Owens and Billy Jack of Crossville, Alabama; 4 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; five nephews, Goble Ratliff and Sue of Bellville, Michigan, Terry Ratliff and Julia of Canton Michigan, Mike Ratliff and Lucy of Clintwood, Forest Ratliff and Patti of Ypsilanti, Michigan, Kenny Ratliff and Beth of Clintwood.

Receiving of friends will be 1:00 PM on Sunday, March 19th, with services conducted by Joe Glenn Sluss at 2:00 PM in the Clintwood Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Potter Cemetery in Elkhorn City, Kentucky.  Pallbearers will be family and friends.