Roy Backus

Roy H. Backus, age 92, of Phelps, passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

In accordance with Roy’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Private burial will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Roys childhood was spent growing up on the family farm. His intentions of continuing on the family tradition of farming came to an end when the United States Military called upon him to serve his Country, an accomplishment he held dear to his heart.

Roy spent his career as a state certified welder for Elderlee Inc., in Oaks Corners. He had a mechanical mind and a natural gift of being able to figure anything out. If something was broke, he could fix it. If parts were no longer available, he made them. He became the “Go-To” person at work and in his local community for any repairs that needed to be done. People often stopped by his shop asking if he could help them fix something that was broken, and Roy was always there to lend a helping hand. Roy kept many items running longer than they should have been.

Roy had a big personality. He loved trying to make people laugh, and will always be remembered for his infectious “Backus Giggle”. He loved his family dearly. He was especially proud of his two girls, Mary and Lena. In his eyes, they were his finest accomplishments. Roy was always looking out for them, both in big and small ways. He was a steady presence that Mary and Lena could always count on being there.

Roy spent 62 years with his beloved wife Neva. Their relationship started on a ride on his prized Harley-Davidson. Neva was nervous at first, but after riding a few times with Roy, she eventually grew to share his passion on riding the motorcycle. They navigated through life’s journeys of twists and turns, and ups and downs, the same way they navigated the roads on the motorcycle.

Roy spent his retirement in his beloved shop working on his many “on-going projects”. In his younger days, he was an avid hunter and fisherman, with many “Buck-Racks” and fishing poles adorning his shop walls. He was known for his excellent marksmanship, and he appreciated the skill and responsibility that came along with that. He shared this knowledge with his nephews and grandsons which they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Roy loved nature and animals. One of his favorite things to do in his down time was to take a walk through the woods, and admire all the creatures big and small. Dogs held a soft spot in his heart. He had a talent for training them, and was blessed with a couple of “Heart Dogs” through the years that he would share endless stories of.

Story telling was another gift he was blessed with. If you had the time, he loved to share stories of special moments he had growing up with his siblings on the farm, of his military service and of his many vast memories. If you listened close, there was wisdom in those stories that you could take away and benefit from.

Roy was someone you could count on to always lend a hand. He showed his love through fixing and building. Problem solving made his day. He would tackle a problem with a sparkle in his eye, a story to share, while ending it with that infectious giggle. He could brighten your day with an impression that you would not soon forget.

Roy is survived by his wife of 62 years, Neva Backus
Daughters Mary (Mike) Rapp
Lena Backus
Grandsons Ryan and Evan Rapp
Many Nieces, Nephews and extended family who will all miss him deeply and remember him fondly.

Roy was predeceased by his Mother and Father, Lena and Newton Backus, brothers Lester, Donald, Claude and Carl, and Sisters Irene Csete and Bernice Barnes.