THREE MILE BAY, NY —Â Russell G. Backus, 92, of Bayview Drive, Three Mile Bay, passed away June 12, 2021, at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse.
He was born on June 9, 1929, in the town of Lyme, a son of Charles E. and Mabel A. (Tracy) Backus.
Russell worked for the Brownville Game Farm prior to entering the US Army on Dec. 8, 1950. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 26, 1952, as a corporal.
A marriage to Jeanette Cean ended in divorce. He then married Nancy Bourcy on December 26, 1959 in Three Mile Bay. Nancy worked 42 years as a secretary for the Timerman Insurance Co.
Russell worked for the Township Telephone Co. in Chaumont for over 25 years, as a lineman, retiring in 1981. He was also self employed for several years setting telephone poles and installing electrical entrances for many homeowners in the north country.
He was a past member of the Lyme Rod and Gun Club and current member of the Chaumont Free Masons.
Among his survivors are two sons and their wives, Stephen R. (Catherine) Backus, Redwood, and Brad (Janette) Backus, Brownville; a granddaughter, Casey Backus and a great grandson Jace Backus Levin, of Adams Center; and a brother, Rodney Backus of Brownville.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his beloved wife, Nancy Backus who passed away Nov. 12, 2010, a sister, Betty J. Backus and a brother, Donald Charles Backus.
Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home. Burial will take place at the St. Vincent de Paul cemetery in Cape Vincent at the convenience of the family.
Online condolences may be made at www.dexterfuneralhome.com