John Franz Backels Obituary
With profound sadness, we say goodbye to John Franz Backels of Clifton Forge, Virginia, whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. John left this world on July 3, 2024 at the age of 94, leaving a void in the lives of so many people. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family.
He was predeceased by: his parents, John Edward and Linnea Franz Backels; his son Tim; and his sister Ruth Knutson. He is survived by: his children, Steve (Kelsey) of Millersville, PA, Kris Girard (Bob) of Earlysville and Karen Gioia (Bob) of Charlottesville; his grandchildren, Adam Backels (Tom Elson), Parker Girard (Heather), Charlie Girard, Kerry Moomaw (Will), Mitch Gioia, Trevor Gioia and Meredith Gioia; and his great grandchildren, Miles Girard and Ethan Elson-Backels.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Tim Backels Memorial Scholarship Fund at Mountain Gateway Community College (http://www.mgcc.edu).
