Backus, Myrtle M.

Myrtle May Backus, 96, of East Hartford, CT passed away peacefully on July 26, 2021. She was born May 6, 1925, in Bronx, NY, and was the beloved wife of the late Stanley Backus who passed away on July 1, 1986. Myrtle was the only daughter of the late James and Myrtle (McCloud) Donegan. In her early years, she and her parents performed with the Clyde Beatty Circus, traveling the world. During World War II she performed in the USO shows for the troops in such places as Atlantic

City, NJ and Yosemite, CA. She is survived by and will be dearly missed by her two sons: James Backus and

his wife Amy, and Robert Backus and his wife Susan. She also leaves behind four grandchildren: Kristen and her partner Dante; Kelly and her husband Mike and their daughter Kaylee; Bill and his wife Paige; and Debbie and her husband Jay and their son Brayden. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews and a special brother-in-law, Chuck. Myrtle’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Lily for her kind and compassionate care in Myrtle’s final moments. Arrangements have been entrusted with Newkirk and Whitney Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Avenue, East Hartford. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, there will not be any calling hours. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 at Hillside Cemetery, Roberts Street, East Hartford at 11:00am. For an online memorial, please visit www. NewkirkAndWhitney.com.

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