It is with deep sorrow that we share the loss of Kelvin Junior Stowe Lyder at the age of 74, a beloved musician and family man whose life touched many. A devoted widower, he loved his children and wife, Marilyn Lyder, for over 45 years and carried her memory with him daily.

Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Kelvin carried the vibrant rhythms of music throughout his life, inspiring pride and a sense of cultural connection among those who knew him. Kelvin began his pan journey at age 5 with a 4-gallon kerosene drum his father gave him. He shared the story of tuning his own drum using a metal xylophone for precision. He then played in his first steel band, Gonzales Ebony, at age 14 for one year, after his parents, Barbara and Kelvin Sr., reluctantly permitted him to participate. His first recording was in 1967 with Syncopators' Poets and Peasants. In 1969, he went on to play with Silver Stars. In 1972, he changed bands to play with his friends. In 1975, he joined Steltones Steel Band, Starlift, then later Taspo, Metrotones, Afro Pan, Pan Fantasy, Panatics Steel Band, Melange Musical Steel, and The Toronto North Stars Children's Steel Orchestra.

Kelvin’s smile and laughter would light up a room. His melodies created lasting memories for family, friends, and students alike. He is survived by his children, Janvere, Trent, and Steen, his grandchildren, Telisha, Nyla, and Odin, and his great-grandchild, Aaliyah. He will also be remembered by his siblings, step children and extended family.

Please see memorial service details below. If desired, donations in Kelvin's memory may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association. See link to charity in the Donations tab above.


***Due to fragrance allergy, we kindly ask that strong fragrances, such as perfumes, oils, and colognes be minimized.***