CHICOPEE – Edward C. Backus, 82, of the Willimansett section of Chicopee, was Called Safely Home on Sunday, September 17, 2023. He passed into Eternal Life at Mont Marie Health Care Center in Holyoke surrounded by the care and comfort of his loving family. He was born in Springfield on February 27, 1941, a beloved son of the late Charles J. and Irene (Ross) Backus. He was raised in Wilbraham until the age of nine and moved to Springfield with his family and graduated from the former Springfield Technical High School in 1959. He furthered his education and received an Associate’s Degree from Boston University and attended American International College in Springfield and Springfield Technical Community College. He was employed in the Shipping and Receiving Department at the US Factory Outlet in Springfield and had previously worked at General Offset Printing, the Arkay Shop and A.O. White, all in Springfield and Wang in Holyoke. He was a communicant of Saint Anthony of Padua Church in Chicopee where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, served on the Social Committee of the Church and was a member of the Chicopee Council 15125 Knights of Columbus at the Church. During his leisure time, he enjoyed watching baseball and reading about cars and history. Above all, he loved spending time with his family and his many friends. He leaves his beloved wife and best friend, Peggy-Ann (Sherman) Backus. They were married on October 4, 1986 at Holy Name Church in Springfield and were blessed with over 36 years of happiness together. He also leaves his dear brother, James R. Backus and his wife, Christine, of South Hadley; and his many dear cousins, extended family members and friends. His Funeral will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023 beginning at the St. Pierre-Phaneuf Aldenville Chapels, (413-532-9806), 13 Dale Street, Chicopee, MA 01020, (funeral home will open at 8:30 a.m.), followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Saint Anthony of Padua Church, 56 Saint Anthony Street, Chicopee, MA 01013. His Burial will follow the Mass at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 421 Tinkham Road, Springfield, MA 01129. His family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The parking lot and main entrance of the funeral home are located in the rear at 20 Lafayette Street, Chicopee, MA 01020. In lieu of flowers, his family requests that memorial donations be made in his memory to Saint Anthony of Padua Church, 56 Saint Anthony Street, Chicopee, MA 01013. For more details and to leave his family condolence messages, please visit: www.stpierrephaneuf.com