David Backer

David Backer passed away peacefully on December 21, 2020 in Port St. Lucie, FL at the age of 61. David was born and raised in Levittown, New York and was an All-American lacrosse player throughout his youth. He met Mary Henry, the love of his life, while in college and they started a home together in Valley Stream while David established his career in the world of finance. Although David’s initial introduction to the stock exchange was only as a lunch delivery person, he quickly made connections and rose as a talented and insightful stock broker. Soon thereafter, David and Mary started their own family with the birth of their pride and joy, Mara.

Throughout Mara’s childhood, David was a deeply devoted parent and found great joy in coaching her basketball and softball teams for over ten years. David and Mara were frequent concert goers as he shared his love of music with her, as well as his love for the New York Rangers. David also regularly participated in charity fundraisers for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Variety Children’s Charity. When Mara left for college in 2010, David retired from his career as a broker after spending over 30 years on the New York Stock Exchange and the American Stock Exchange.

David’s next chapter in life began in 2011 when he opened up the Bayside Clam Bar and Grill in East Islip, New York. David served as a co-owner and general manager, but his impact on the restaurant extended far beyond his job titles. Patrons could always count on “Captain Dave” to sing a song with the live bands or buy a round of drinks for his favorite customers. David was also deeply loved by his staff, many of whom viewed David as a father figure and leader. He took a personal interest in the well-being and happiness of both his customers and his staff, and will be fondly remembered as a legacy at Bayside.

In 2017, David retired from his position at Bayside and headed to Florida to live out his golden years fishing, watching hockey, and relaxing with his family. He continued to embrace his love of music, frequently attending concerts and sharing his passion with Mara and Mary. As his brother put it, Dave’s first priorities in life were his family and music. For his loved ones, it will only take a familiar song coming on the radio to bring back a flood of beautiful memories of Dave.

David is survived by Mary (Henry) Backer, his wife of 37 years, his beloved daughter Mara Backer and her partner Dyrell Williamson, and his siblings Patricia Hurley, Audrey Koehler, Tom Backer, Christine Backer, and John Backer. David is also survived by many brother and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and countless friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Arthur “Bud” Backer and Audrey Backer, and his siblings Arthur “Randall” Backer, Barbara Arliss, and Raymond Backer.