Susan A (Delair) Backer

Susan A. Backer, 63, of Spiritwood Lake, ND, passed away at her home Thursday evening, March 6, 2025, with her family by her side after she tremendously fought an almost 3 year battle with ALS.

Susan was born November 24, 1961, in Jamestown, ND, the daughter of Harold James and Ruby May (Moore) DeLair.  Sue developed a strong work ethic at a young age and began employment at the Frontier Fort at the age of 14.  She also worked at Country Kitchen, First National Bank, and a bowling alley.  Sue bought her first car at age 17 by herself and worked at Norwest Bank at the age of 18.  She moved to Jamestown shortly after graduating from Montpelier High School in 1980 and worked at JetStream and the Anne Carlsen School for four years.  Sue also became an EMT, was a First Responder for many years, and taught CPR classes.  Sue and Dale Backer were married on October 4, 1985 at Courtenay, ND.  They made their home on the farm and raised 3 children.  She was active in the kids’ lives, work and pitching in on the farm when needed.  Sue took insurance classes to gain her license while working at Kensal Farmers Elevator.  She also worked at the Kensal Bank, the bank in Carrington, the post office and substitute taught at the Kensal School periodically.

Sue was a meticulous bookkeeper.  She kept the books for their farm and trucking company, the fire dept., and was secretary for Corrine Township for over 30 years.

She was active in JAA and Relay for Life.

She loved her family and friends fiercely and would do anything for them.  Sue also lived for her grandkids and loved spending anytime she could with them, whether it was searching the trees for treasure or reading a book.  She loved it all.  Sue also enjoyed reading, camping, anything that pertains to the farm and ranch life, visiting, laughing, and life on the go – she never sat still!  She wanted to do and see everything!  Sue truly loved life, loved people and she spread that joy with everyone she met!

Sue is survived by her husband, Dale Backer; daughters, Jessica (Titus) Timm and Shelby (Travis) Hart; son, Justin (Brittany) Backer; 7 grandchildren; mother, Ruby (Ed) DeLair; sister, Debbie Alber; and brothers, Kenneth (Connie) DeLair, Louis (Bonnie) DeLair, and David (Sherry) DeLair.

She was preceded in death by her father; Harold DeLair; maternal grandparents, William & Eliza Moore; and paternal grandparents, Louis & Ida May DeLair.

Mass of Christian Burial – 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 14, 2025 at St. John’s Catholic Church, Kensal, with Father Sean Mulligan, celebrant.

Prayer Service – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, March 13, 2025 at St. John’s Catholic Church, Kensal.  Rosary will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Burial – St. Mary’s Cemetery, Courtenay, ND.