Dale Craig Backus

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dale Craig Backus, a beloved Veteran, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on October 20, 1951, in Provo, Utah, Craig was the cherished son of Dale LaVar Backus and Hallie LaRue Spaugy Backus. He lived a life filled with love, laughter and deep commitment for his family and community.
Craig was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Joanne Backus, as well as his siblings Debbie Backus Hayes, Scot Backus, and his parents Dale and Hallie Backus. He is survived by his three loving children, Kim Backus, KC (Jill) Backus, and Klint Backus, along with his beloved sister Kathy Backus Mitchell and five treasured grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy.
Craig's attended Orem High School, where he graduated in 1969. He went on to serve his country with honor as a Sergeant Loadmaster in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, particularly in Operation Homecoming. His military service instilled in him a deep respect for his fellow veterans.
Following his military service, Craig worked as a crane operator at Geneva Steel, where he was known for his work ethic and dedication. He was also an active member of the Orem Community Church and spent the last four years at the Mervyn Sharp Bennion Central Utah Veterans Home, affectionately known as "The Mayor" by those who knew and loved him. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff, veterans, and residents of the home for their kindness, love, and respect shown to Craig during his time there. You know you can find him anytime you decide to go downtown.
Known to many as Craig or Mr. B, he possessed a variety of interests, from his undeniable love for Utah and his hometown of Orem to his passion for sports, particularly baseball, the Utah Jazz (Jo Gazz!!!), and University of Utah football. He found immense joy in spending time with his family, in particular hunting and fishing trips to Strawberry Reservoir. Craig also had a special bond with his pets and held a deep treasuring for the beauty of Mount Timpanogos. One of his favorite pastimes was quizzing his family on a current plane in the sky or on TV.
Craig had some unique characteristics that made him who he was. He needed his morning coffee just right, with one cream and two sugars, and he was known for his obsession with his lawn, which he tended to with great care. Though he disliked shopping and crowds, he started a business in the early 2000s to assist homebound seniors by doing their shopping for them. Craig's youthful spirit was evident in his choice of shoes, affectionately called his "go fasters," and his lifelong love for Coca-Cola, which began during his days as a cook at a small diner called Tiger Island in Orem.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you enjoy a cup of coffee, visit your local veteran's home, and watch your favorite sporting event in Craig's honor. He was a private person who requested no public services. Craig's ashes will be scattered in his favorite areas around Utah, and there will be a remembrance for his love of Orem at the local cemetery.
Craig's legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. His love for his family, his often unintended cantankerous spirit, and his dedication to his community will be forever remembered. Rest in peace, dear Craig; you will be deeply missed.