It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ed Backer, a beloved brother, cousin, uncle, friend, and cherished member of the St. Louis and Blue Springs Communities. Born on September 21, 1956, Ed touched the lives of all who knew him with his willingness to help, leading us in song and funny sayings (Ed-isms)

A Life Well-Lived

Ed is survived by his siblings Mary Kay, Matthias (Maureen – deceased), Lou (Stephen – deceased) Barrett, Robert (Sally), Susan Conklin, Carol Miller (Terry Whitney), Pat (Michael) Banton, Joseph (Diana), Brian (Sharon) and Denis.   Ed is an uncle to 30 nieces and nephews and 35 great nieces and nephews. Ed was loved by all his cousins in the Kwentus, Hoffmann and Schleicher families.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Matthias M.D. and Laverne as well as sister Marilyn (Gary) Parker and brother Donald Backer.

Ed grew up in a loving household with his parents and siblings.  He could always lift the spirits no matter if it was a Saturday night watching Mannix and Starsky and Hutch or a family wedding or celebration of life.   His impromptu speeches are notorious for recognizing the attendees before ending with a zinger and then coffee.

Passions and Legacy

Growing up Ed knew every neighbor and greeted everyone with a “Hello” each day.  He was “in charge” of taking in several neighbor’s trash cans and picking up papers.  Ed enjoyed visiting with neighbors especially if it happened after church and they had hot, fresh donuts.

Ed was a member of Our Lady of Providence parish until 1992.  He received all his sacraments from OLP and was loved by the whole parish community.

Ed was a graduate of Park School and immediately started working at the W.A.C. Industries sheltered workshop on Mackenzie Road.  Ed loved to be busy both at work and at home.

Ed was an avid swimmer and a 7 Time gold medal winner in the Special Olympics

Cherished Memories

In 1992, Ed moved to Blue Springs, Missouri to be with sister Marilyn and her husband Gary as well as niece Julie and nephew Jason.   He became a member of St. John Laland parish.   He also spent a lot of time with Brother Joe and his wife Diana and their family.

Ed went to several sporting events and social events.  Sister Lynn ensured Ed went to all the activities including several of family vacations.  He developed a close relationship with niece Julie which influenced her decision to become a teacher.

He continued working at the Blue Springs workshop until 2018.   After moving back to St. Louis, he received great care from Nancy and Dave Embrey.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of making the most of every day.   He was always hopeful and optimistic that if he worked hard there would be another party for him to lead everyone in “YMCA”

Remembering Ed

Visitation will be held at Our Lady of Providence Catholic Church (8866 Pardee Road St. Louis, Missouri 63123) on Tuesday, July 29, 9:00 a.m. until funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m.  Interment Resurrection Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, contributions to Special Olympics or One Classroom appreciated.