LeRoy G. “Butch” Backus, 80, formerly of Lorraine, died Sunday April 14 at St. Luke Residential Health Care Facility, Oswego, NY,  where he had been a resident since November 2018. A graveside service will be in the Ellisburg Cemetery Tuesday April 23 at 11:00 am with Rev. Suzanne Finch, pastor of the Lorraine and Mannsville United Methodist Churches officiating.

Arrangements are with the Piddock Funeral Home Inc, Adams, NY.

Born June 30, 1943 in Watertown, NY, son of Glen and Hazel (Casler) Backus, he attended Lorraine and Adams schools. Following school he worked on several local farms, mainly in the Lorraine area. He also worked for Jefferson County Reforestation from 1965-1968, and the Town of Lorraine Highway Department helping with seasonal road maintenance for several years.

He is survived by his sister and brother in law Joyce and William Wadsworth, Lorraine; two nieces, one nephew and many cousins. He also has several aunts and uncles, some of which have predeceased him.

Butch was a twenty-four year member of the Lorraine Volunteer Fire Department, the Lorraine Grange #117 and the National Rifle Association. In his youth he was also a member of the

Boy Scouts of America.

He enjoyed woodworking with his father and four-wheeling.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Lorraine Volunteer Fire Company, 20876 County Rt 189, Lorraine, NY 13659.

Condolences may be made at www.piddockfuneralhome.com