Obituary of Leonard Backus

Leonard Alexander Backus was born in Claresholm, Alberta on June 19th, 1919 and was the 2nd eldest in his family. Leonard was raised in the Claresholm area until 1930, when his family moved to the Peace River Country and settled in an area to what would be later known as Cherry Point, AB. While living and working on the family farm, Leonard decided to take a quarter of land and start his own homestead, working and developing it towards the late 1930's. He spent significant time participating in hunting trips. Len learned to live off the land, developing his hunting and trapping abilities, using income from his adventures to purchase small machinery for the farm. Through the 1940's, Leonard trucked freight on the Alaska Highway with his father and brothers, during its construction, for the US Army. In 1951, Leonard married Gladys Clay of Clayhurst, BC and started a mixed farming operation of hogs, cattle and grain, continuously expanding and improving his farming operation throughout the years. His first child, Brian, was born in 1954. And later, daughter Glenys was born in 1956. Len loved the family farm and was always passionate about its growth and prosperity, but most of all, about the true fundamentals of living and working on the land. Through the years, and before he was married, he played for many local dances and found a great deal of pleasure in doing so. My grandmother Gladys was also quite interested in music, and after they were married, accompanied him on numerous occasions, playing for dances and social engagements along with Hugh Conrad, Allen and Yvonne Berge and many others. My grandfather was the sound foundation on which my family is based on today. His hard work and determination to farm were the building blocks in a venture that my father later took over and groomed as his own. He led by example in conducting himself as a true and honest individual, always displaying a sound work ethic and willing to lend a hand to those in need. Leonard was a devoted family man. He loved his grandchildren and all children in general. He never failed to take an opportune moment to entertain and interact with them. I'd like to leave you all today with this quote. It reads "Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same". Grandpa, we will never forget you. And your essence of life will remain with as all. Our family can feel rest assured, knowing you're looking down on us, providing guidance along the way. We love ya' mate! Len was pre-deceased by his parents, Stephen and Annie Backus and siblings Malcolm, George, Marion and Madeline. A Funeral Service was held on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at 1:00 pm from Reynars Funeral Chapel. Pastor Dan Fletcher officiated, interment followed in the Cherry Point Cemetery. Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium,