Obituary of John "Junior" Backus

GOUVERNEUR – John "Junior" Backus, age 80, of Gouverneur, passed away on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at the Canton-Potsdam Hospital. Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur on Tuesday, December 1, 2015 from 1 – 3 and 6 – 8 p.m. His funeral service will be on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in the Fullerville Cemetery. Junior was born on January 1, 1935 in Fowler to the late John H. and Louetta (Lacy) Backus. He married Barbara J. Thayer on September 7, 1965 in Vermont. Junior worked as the caretaker and gravedigger for the Hailesboro Cemetery for many years before retiring in 1988. He loved carpentry and building things and had a knack for small engine repair. Junior was a big hearted man who enjoyed talking with the guys. He came from a musically talented family and enjoyed singing with his family. His survivors include his wife, Barbara Backus; daughters, Linda Whitney, Jennifer Wagar, Holly Matthie, Lucinda Bishop; sons, Elwin Bell, Jr., Herbert Bell, Arthur Bell; brother, Donald Backus; and sisters, Mavis Cole, Marlene Quarry and Thelma Chapin. He is also survived by 24 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Junior is predeceased by his parents; sons, Donald Backus and David Bell; brothers, Roland and Doug Backus; and sisters, Madeline Closs and Elaine Newcomb. Donations in his memory may be made to the Hailesboro Cemetery Association, PO Box 94 Hailesboro NY 13645 or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 7, East Syracuse NY 13057. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.