William Michael "Bill" Backman

This is Giovanna Capone, friend of Robyn who is the sister of Bill. I did not know Bill but I just want to express my condolences for his passing. It sounds like he was a sweet person, an artist and a cat lover too! Sending my condolences to Robyn and the friends and family of Bill.

Bill was one of my best friends, we knew each other for more than 45 years. We first met at the Winchell's Donuts in Wichita in the early 80's. It was a popular hangout spot for local teens at that time. Bill always had a lot of cool cars, back then he drove a Fire Arrow or a 70 Mustang Fastback or an El Camino. All I had was a Honda moped so I was a bit jealous. Bill was always fun to hang out with and we kept in touch constantly over the years, from when he worked at the Hillcrest then later at the retirement home. When a position opened up in the tech department at FlightSafety in the late 90's, I knew Bill would be a great fit. Bill was a great employee and served FlightSafety well for more than 20 years. When my daughter was born, Bill became like an uncle to her, and she and Bill had a lot of fun together. We both very much missed Bill when we moved away after the accident at FlightSafety. We still stayed in contact and enjoyed catching up when we visited. It was a huge shock to learn that he passed away at such a young age and he will really be missed. My daughter is heartbroken as I'm sure all his family is. We were so blessed and lucky to know him.
Rest in peace Bill, we'll never forget you!

Bill and I became friends instantly while I worked at FlightSafety back in 2010 and stayed in touch when I moved offices. He had this quirk about him that I loved. He was a unique individual who loved his cats. I specifically remember him talking about Hidey. I can´t remember if that was the huge cat he owned or not but I always liked seeing pictures of that big fluffy cat. He always had several phones and he made all kinds of gadgets that he would bring in and show me. What a creative mind! I remember when he painted his ceiling black and I thought he was crazy for doing so, now it´s something many people do! I know he cherished his mother as he spoke about her frequently. He will be missed and thought fondly of for his many talents and kindness. I was lucky to know him.

I didn't know Bill but I do know his sister Robyn. I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of this man. I want to send my blessings to Robyn and to her family. I know Bill was a big cat lover and I'm a cat lover too, so we had that in common. Now I hear he was also an artist and I'm a creative person as well, so we had another thing in common. I'm really glad his kitties are getting good care. Again I express my sincere condolences on his loss. May he rest in peace and may cherished memories give his family and friends some comfort.