“Mr. Silverdale,” Hank Mann Sykes, was recognized tonight as “Kitsap County’s Outstanding County Government Volunteer.”
Josh Brown, county commissioner, spoke of Mann Sykes’ years of community involvement, including the 10 years he’s been on the Central Kitsap Community Council.
Rob McDermott, his friend, introduced him to the audience also speaking of his service but adding elements about his health problems. He was a Vietnam vet and in 1990 went through a dual organ transplant.
On Tuesday Mann Sykes turns 70. “In anyone’s life it’s a memorable event. In Hank’s life it’s a miracle,” McDermott said.
Mann Sykes was asked by the commissioners to say a few words. “I’ve never been one who could just say a few words,” he responded, attributing that to his years in broadcasting.
He said he was raised in four different orphanages, so he never had a solid foundation in his life. So early in his life he decided he’d help others by giving back to the community. “It’s just been a way of life for me,” he said. That involvement required the patience of his wife Loisanne and his son Josh.
A year ago, as president of the United Way board, he asked the rest of us to give to others.
Very nice story, Steve. Thank you.