Joseph A. Backer Sr.

Joseph A. Backer Sr. passed away on March 24, 2020, at the age of 81, after a six year battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born on November 5, 1938 in Detroit; son of Joseph and Minnie (nee Ohrmann) Backer, and raised with love by Bertha (nee Allgaier) and Joseph.

Joe attended St, Jude Grade School, Austin Prep Catholic High School, and East Side Design & Engineering Institute. He was a talented body draftsman for Fisher Body and later a Drafting Room Supervisor for the Cadillac Motor Division of General Motors, retiring in 2001 after 42 years of loyal employment.

Joe was a former member of the St, Jude Parish Council and AOD Vicariate. He was an avid hobbyist, belonging to the Early Ford V8 Club and the Men and Women’s Garden Club of Grosse Pointe, amongst other special interest clubs.

Joe's family was his greatest source of joy. He is survived by his loving wife Sharon (nee Cottrell) and found great pride in his daughter Gretchen Backer, and sons Joseph Jr., Kurt (Laura), and Karl (Leslie). He cherished his grandchildren Benjamin (Krysten), Zachary, Rachael, Andrew, Maxwell, Bridget, Eric, Nicholas, Paden McCown, and Katherine (Alex) Partridge. He is survived by his sister Gertrude (Ken) Stadwick, nieces, nephews, and was predeceased by his sister Mary Herrando and brother William Neininger.

A Memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Backer’s name to the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation, 30400 Telegraph Rd. Suite 150, Bingham Farms, Mi 48025.