Hartford, Wi – John Gary Backes, 82, of Hartford, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
John was born on July 21, 1944, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Charles and Lucille (nee Boettcher) Backes. He graduated from Rufus King High School before proudly answering the call to serve his country. John served in the United States Army with the 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry, and was stationed in Korea from 1968 to 1969.
His military service was something he carried with great pride throughout his life. After returning home, John remained deeply committed to his fellow veterans and became a passionate advocate for locating and bringing home prisoners of war and those missing in action.
Following his military service, John began working at Inryco, where he spent many years and proudly served as a union representative. He later worked for Pioneer Paper in Cedarburg. John was a hardworking man who believed in standing up for others and doing what was right.
John found enjoyment in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He also loved sports and could often be found following his favorite teams. He was a devoted fan of many Wisconsin sports teams, but his beloved Milwaukee Admirals held a special place in his heart.
Above all, John treasured his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who took great pride in the people he loved. His family will forever remember his strength, his loyalty, his sense of dedication, and the many memories they shared together.
John will be deeply missed by his wife, Cynthia; his children, Gary (Susan) and Elizabeth (Jonathon); his brother, James (Annette); his grandchildren, Michael and Colleen (Mitchell); and his great-grandson, Carter.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lucille; and his siblings, Chuck and Judy (Bob) Wick.
A Celebration of Life for John will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Hartford Recreation Center in Hartford. The family warmly invites friends and loved ones to join them for lunch, fellowship, and an afternoon of sharing memories and celebrating John’s life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fisher House of Wisconsin, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), or the Washington County Youth Hockey Association.
