Obituary of Edward E. Backus, Sr.

Edward Ernest Backus Sr, 80, passed away peacefully March 29, 2020. Ed was born August 16, 1939 to the late Leon and Alice (Brundege) Backus in Cannonsville (Tompkins), NY. He was proud to be a brother of eleven; including Jim, Marion, Janet, and Rose and is predeceased by siblings; Robert, Andy, Lloyd, Jayne, Marjorie, and Ruth. Seventeen years ago, on August 10th, 2002, Ed married the love of his life, Grace Beers, where they spent 43 years by each other's side. He was a proud Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather. "Uncle Ed" was a friend to many, known for his days after retirement as the "tractor driver" at the East Sidney Dam. Prior to his days at the Dam, Ed worked as a roofer with United Union of Roofers. He was a proud member of the Sidney Center Rod and Gun Club, the Moose Club, Sidney Center Fire Department, Sons of American Legion, and a founding member of the Masonville Rod and Gun Club. In his younger years, he was an avid race car driver and won many races and loved derbys, winning the first ever Walton derby. He enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to hunt and fish and loved spending time at camp where he'd enjoy a cold beverage in the company of family and friends. He loved time spent with his children: Joann (Tim) Scofield, Robert (Carol) Newell, Ricky (Denise) Newell, Penny (Roger) Springstead, Rhonda (Jim) Bryant, Edward Jr. "Tiger" (Dianna) Backus, Randy (Lacy) Newell, Beth Starr (Craig) Backus and grandchildren: Jason, David, Melinda, Tonya, Amanda, Jonathan, Paul, Tom, Jeff, Alvie, Tiffany, Lyndsie, Tucker, Madison, Kendra, Hailey-Mae, Jesse, Dawson, Alyssa, and Damon along with his 31 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and special friends. Ed is predeceased by his mother and father in-law; Vic and Florence Beers, grandchildren; Joshua and Alicia, and great-granddaughter Macy. Ed was a one of a kind, fun-loving man who touched the lives of so many. He will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting a note or card be sent to their mother, Grace, with a favorite memory or story you have with Ed. 307 Thorpe Road Sidney NY, 13838 A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Share condolences and memories with the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.