George A. Backus

"Palmer-George A. Backus, 89, of Pine St., passed away at home November 12, 2013 with his loving family by his side. Born in Springfield, MA on September 14, 1924, he was the son of Charles A. and Mary (Murphy) Backus. Attending Wilbraham and Springfield schools, he graduated from Springfield Trade High School. George then went on to serve his country in the US Army in 1945. He attended Radio School in PA and was then transferred to White Sands New Mexico, US Air Force (B2 Rocket Testing grounds). Being a member of the Palmer Fire Department and a communicant at St. Thomas Church, George and his wife Margaret were familiar faces in the town of Palmer. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 130 for many years where he held many duties, including serving as the Post Chaplain. During his working career, George was employed and retired from the US Post Office after 27 years of employment. George will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Margaret C. (Denning) Backus along with his daughter Kathleen Chaffee and her husband Earl of Palmer as well as his son David G. Backus and his wife Stella of Holyoke. He also leaves 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, his sister Alice Backus and many nieces and nephews. George was predeceased by his brothers, Leo, Charles, William, Robert, John, James and sisters Mary and Anna Tupper. Memorial visitation will be Sunday, November 17th from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. A Memorial Mass is Monday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Church with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. Please meet directly at the church on Monday morning. Donations may be made in his memory to the Humane Society or Wing Hospice, 40 Wright St., Palmer, MA 01069. For details, www.beersandstory.com "