Sir Francis John Badcock Sykes, 10th Baronet 1942-2020Sir John Sykes, 10th Baronet, has died at the age of 78. He was an Old Boy of St Michael’s from 1952-1955Peerage news reported:
Francis John Badcock Sykes was born 7 June, 1942, son of Sir Francis Godfrey Sykes, 9th Baronet [1907-1990], by his wife the former Eira Betty Badcock [1907-70]. he succeeded to the baronetcy on his father’s death, 19 April, 1990.
Sir John [Baronetcy cr GB, 1781] married 30 Apr, 1966, Susan Alexandra Ashmore, daughter of Admiral Sir Edward Ashmore, GCB, DSC [1919-2016], by his wife the former Elizabeth Mary Doveton Sturdee, scion of the Sturdee baronets, by whom he had issue, three sons, Francis, Edward and Alexander. The eldest son, Francis Charles Sykes [born 18 June, 1968], succeeds to the baronetcy.From the Merchant’s House (Marlborough) website:It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Sir John Sykes passed away on 15th October.John had had several health problems in recent years, but he dealt with them with great fortitude and the strength from Sue and his family. He enjoyed recent days and was in good form. The end was peaceful.John was a major part of The Merchant’s House Trust from the beginning of the project in 1991. His passion and enthusiasm was infectious and he enlisted help from everyone he met. His belief in saving and restoring such an iconic 17th century building has been rewarded. He was Chair of the Trust for 25 years and since then became President.John will be greatly missed by all who knew him and it has been an honour to work with him and our thoughts and condolences are with Sue and the family at this sad time.Alison Galvin-WrightChair of Trustees
