Walter J. Backes

Walter John Backes of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Walter John Backes, 85 , passed away peacefully at Willow Terrace Rehabilitation and Nursing Center on February 5th, 2021. Born May 25th, 1935 to Walter N. Backes and Carvilla V. Gilmore in the Germantown/ Mount Airy section of Philadelphia, PA. Walt was a veteran of the US Army. He served as a Sergeant for 3 years from 1960- 1962 before going into the Army Reserves. During his service he toured the US and Hawaii before returning to his hometown of Philadelphia where he would spend the rest of his life. He was an avid handyman and hobbyist who prided himself on his skills. Regardless of not having any biological heirs, he made sure he passed those same skills onto his friend’s four children whom he loved as his own. An introvert by nature, he never shied away from being generous with neighbors, friends, and family. Always offering his time and love. His kindness, strength, and spirit will be sorely missed by all who were privileged to know him. Most of all by his adoptive family the Harvey’s whom they’ve considered him a member. A funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10:30 AM at John F. Murray Funeral Home 1218 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA 19031. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation from 9:30 -10:30AM at the funeral home. Interment will be held at Ivy Hill Cemetery 1201 Easton Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19150. Memorial Contributions in Walter's name may made to Holy Cross Church 140 E. Mt. Airy Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19119, or https://www.parishgiving.org