Robert A. "Rob" Backus

So sorry to hear of Robs passing my time with Rob and Ruth goes back to the early 60's when I worked and lived with the family sharing time at the house on Roseland and summers at Lake Michigan he was quite a hoot back then and evidently held on to that attribute through life. I'm sure he will be missed by many.

Pam, I am so very sorry. I so enjoyed all the years of you and Rob as my patients . Rob had a wonderful sense of humor. He will be missed by many. Hugs and prayers for yourself your daughter grandkids and family.

I´m so sad to hear about Rob´s passing. We met at WIDR and shared the love of Great Black Music Ancient to Future. His show was filled with jazz, blues, soul, and rock from Coltrane to Aretha to Jimi Hendrix. Insightful interviews too. A very memorable one with Abbey Lincoln.
Now and over the next few days the music filling our home is in remembrance of Rob. I made a playlist I know he would like.
Also have great memories listening to live music with Rob and his young daughter, Carrie, many years ago when I ran into them at the Chicago Jazz Festival!
It´s been a couple years since we talked on the phone but we caught up every year with Christmas letters. His were the best. They were funny, bizarre, thought provoking, and especially sweet when he´d tell stories about his Grandchildren and how much he loved them and learned from them.
Rob has left this world with so many Bright Moments.
Thoughts to you, his family, that he loved so much.
Peace, Wendy Ashton

I met Rob at the Post Office in 1985. He always had many bare cassette tapes to share and years later these would become CDs burned at home. Rob introduced us to the Buena Vista Social Club, and a few years later we saw them play live.

Rob also introduced us to Cool Beans and Martini's. We always talked about books and music. He loved his family so much, along with summer vacations in the U.P. We'll miss him!

As a friend from way back I remember Rob as a voice for many current issues of the late 60s and 70s including the peace movement. While he was serious about music, peace and human rights he had a kind spirit and penchant for fun. Just one memory that popped up. In the summer of 1969 or 70 Rob suggested a group bike ride at night through the streets of Kalamazoo. Someone came up with the name The Kalamazoo Maulers in reference to the walking mall we had downtown at the time. We would fly through the warm summer breezes late at night. It was glorious. Even though we haven´t been in touch lately we will miss the unique Christmas letters we received every year. I have a stack saved.
Soar through the skies now Rob.
Love Mamie

Rob contributed so much to WIDR, aficionado of music, fantastic person. It was a privilege to have him on staff.