Franz Frederick Backus Obituary

Franz Frederick Backus, born 3/17/1942, and passed on 9/13/2026, was the 6th child born to August and Eleanor Backus. He grew up in Fox Point, Wis., attending Country Day School, Tulane and UWM, attaining his MS in economics.

He was the last of the ABC kids, as his alphabetically siblings, August "Ace", Bettelou, Cynthia, Diane, and Ellen all heard the knock before him.

His beloved wife and son, Nancy (nee Stannard) and Jordan (Michelle) Backus also preceded him in death.

He worked as an economist for the State of Wisconsin for 30 years.

He built and renovated his own homes, loved camping, fishing, skiing and all things nature, music of many genres, travel, reading, especially honest history, good food and dancing with Evelyn.

Mostly he loved family and friends. He enjoyed a great friendship with his cousin, Carl Backus and his wife, Mary, and his numerous cousins, nieces and nephews will forever love and appreciate him, his great hugs and fantastic laugh and smiles.

He felt strongly that education for all children was vital and he had a special interest in helping children who were not gifted scholars or athletes succeed in their studies as well.

Franz sincerely believed that love, compassion and respect between the human family would be our only way forward as a species.

He was at peace at the end, only wishing he could stay for his partner and the love of his life, Evelyn Owen.

Donations are welcome to Plymouth Art Center, 520 E Mill Street Plymouth, WI.