Steven Backes

Published 12:00 am Saturday, January 9, 2010

Our wonderful Steven Paul Backes, of Crockett, Calif., passed “Into the Light” at 4:20 p.m. on Dec. 26, 2009. He was 56. His last Christmas was truly a loving time for him at home. Everyone rallied around Steve as he peacefully left us all. On Nov. 1, 2009, Steve received a long awaited liver transplant but cancer was hiding, waiting to quickly take over, soon after the surgery. His body finally surrendered his soul over to God as he bravely met his challenge. We will all miss him more than these words can say.
Steven was born Nov. 10, 1953, to Lorraine (Lewis) and Victor Backes in Marshall. He grew up in Albert Lea, where at a very young age started his trek as a famed carpenter. In the late ’70s he moved with his first wife Cynthia Rayman Backes to Phoenix, Ariz., to build many desert homes. His present, second wife Cary England Backes, brought him to the Bay Area in 1988 where he evolved into the high end, general contracting industry. He enthusiastically loved every one of his projects and all of the people involved. Steve was full of love and was a brilliant, funny, sensitive and great man. Everyone he touched can attest. We’re sure he’s on his Harley in the heavens.
Steve is survived by his wife, Cary England Backes; his two sisters and their husbands: Judy and Dennis Smith and family, Linda and Duane Penning and family; his daughter and husband, Lisa Hawkins and Danny Bizoti; his two stepsons: John Bischoff and Aren Bischoff and Zac Bischoff and Sherie Martinez; his three grand children: Riley Bischoff, Dakota and Xoey Bizoti.
A service to honor Steve will be held on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2010, at 12:30 p.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 800 Pomona St. Crockett, CA 94525.
A reception at 1301 Pomona St. will follow the service. Thank you.
Please make all donations to the American Cancer Society.