Richard was born Sept. 29, 1939 in Yates Center, KS to the late Fred and Augesta Backhus. He went to North Kansas City Schools. Richard was in the Marine Corp from 1957 to 1961. Richard retired from the North Kansas City Fire Department after 25 years of service. He also owned a fence company, he did many jobs.
He was preceded in death by his sister Erna King, brother Sonny Backhus and Art Backhus.
Survivors include his wife Sharon Ann Backhus and his brother Robert Backhus and sister Connie McConnell. His children Richard Paul Backhus of KC, Troy (Shannon) Backhus of Indep. And Roy Backhus of Las Vegas. Grandchildren Matthew Backhus, Caleb Alberts, Cody Backhus, Kaleb Backhus, Melinda Backhus, Hannah Backhus, Dakota Williams and Haley Backhus. Great Grandchildren Rylynne Backhus and Joslynne Mendoza and lots of nieces and nephews and friends.
Richard never met a stranger and even at 80 you couldn’t keep him down. Richard loved telling true stories, spending time with his family and working. He collected old toys, coins, glass and other antiques.
Memorial service 6:00pm Friday July 3, 2020 White Chapel Funeral Home, Gladstone, MO. Inurnment White Chapel Cemetery at a later date. Due to the Covid-19 the family requests that friends and families in attendance please wear a mask or face covering.