Erwin Backhus
Erwin G. Backhus, 90, Woodbine, died Dec. 22, 2001, at Alterra Sterling House, Salina.
Born Feb. 1, 1911, at Tampa, he was the son of John G. and Helena (Ottensmeier) Backhus. He was baptized Feb. 26, 1911, and confirmed June 6, 1926, at North Tampa Lutheran Church. He married Pearl Riffel on his birthday, Feb. 1, 1942, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Lyons Creek. She preceded him in death April 23, 1988.
Backhus was a farmer and stockman in Woodbine and the Lost Springs area. He was co-manager, along with his wife Pearl, of Pla-Bowl Lanes for 23 years. He was an avid bowler until his health began to fail. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church since 1942.
Others preceding him in death was an infant son, Larry Lee, on Feb. 18, 1946.
Survivors include seven brothers, Emil and Adolph Backhus, both of Herington, Herbert, Edwin, and Wilbert Backhus, all of Tampa, Harry Backhus of Leavenworth, and John Backhus of Enterprise; four sisters, Alma Meyer and Frieda Bentz of Tampa, Ella Heidemann of Decatur, Ill., and Wilma Nunn of Pratt.
Services were held at 1 p.m. Dec. 23 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Lyons Creek, with the Rev. Clark M. Davis officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Memorials have been established with St. John's Lutheran Church at Lyons Creek or Hospice of Salina.
