Born: July 16, 1946 - Deceased: 20230706
George H. Backhus, 76, of Belleville, IL, born Tuesday, July 16, 1946, in Somerville NJ, passed away Thursday, July 6, 2023 at Four Fountains Convalescent Center in Belleville, IL.
George was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He left New Jersey to attend McKendree University, where he studied education and met his wife. He joined the Army Reserve in 1969 and served for 6 years.
He worked as a technician for Denison Copier after leaving college, and became a salesman for Country Companies Insurance in 1977 until 1990, when his health deteriorated to the point he became permanently disabled.
George battled Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis for most of his life, eventually becoming wheelchair and bedbound. Despite that he always tried to find enjoyment where he could.
George loved outdoor activities, such as fishing, canoeing, and camping, which he continued to engage in until his health prevented it. He was also an expert tinkerer and loved spending time in the workshop or garage working on old motors and coming up with novel solutions to fix things.
Toward the end of his life when his health kept him from many things, he still enjoyed keeping in touch with friends and family via telephone, watching Cardinals baseball, and board games.
He was preceded in death by his:
- Parents: George and Hortense, nee Herkert, Backhus
Surviving are his:
- Wife of 54 years: Judith, nee Lunnemann, Backhus of Belleville, IL
- Son: Stephen Backhus of Belleville, IL
- Daughter: Christine Backhus of Swansea, IL
- Grandson: Tanner Backhus
- Sisters
- Emma Backhus of Mansfield, PA
- Jan (Scott) Lindsay of Franklin, TN
- Niece: Jill (Seth) Rockwell
Memorials: Memorials may be made to Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Funeral: Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
