Elmer J. Backes, age 83, of Mitchell, SD died Thursday, May 20, 2010 at Firesteel Healthcare Center. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Tuesday May 25, 2010 at Will Funeral Chapel with burial at Servicemens Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service at Will Funeral Chapel.

Elmer J. Backes, son of Christopher and Agatha (Mick) Backes was born December 14, 1926 in Ethan, SD. Elmer grew up and attended country school near Ethan, SD. He entered the US Army on June 27, 1945 and served as a Military Police. While in the service, Elmer received the Bronze Cross. He was honorably discharged on November 25, 1946 and returned home.

Elmer was united in marriage with Esther Heiman on June 5, 1949 in Alexandria, SD. The couple made their home in Ethan after their marriage; they lived in Milltown for a short time, Emery for twenty-one years and Mitchell for twenty-one years. Elmer worked doing construction and was a self-employed carpenter.

Grateful for sharing his life are his children Mavis Hofer and friend Ken of Pipestone, MN, John Backes of Emery, SD, Ken Backes of Salem, SD and Todd Backes and wife Kim of Sioux Falls, SD; six grandchildren, Blake Hofer, Kerri Hofer, Colin Hofer (fiance Alicia), Lacey Carlson (fiance Kyle), Larissa Carlson and Lee Carlson; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Esther; his parents and a brother.