Plymouth – Gerald R. Backlund, age 90, of Plymouth, formerly of Fairfield CT, passed away on Sunday, March 24th, at Stafford Hill in Plymouth.
He was the devoted husband of the late Charlotte (Knapp) Backlund. Loving father of Susan McCombie and her husband Joe of Indiana PA, and Doug Backlund and his wife Dawn of Duxbury. Grandfather of Paige, Joe III, Claire, Caleb, Brad, and Dan. Great grandfather of Joe IV and Dawson. Brother of David Backlund, and the late Philip Backlund.
Born in Framingham MA on February 4, 1934, son of the late Alfred and Dorothy (Jones) Backlund. Jerry grew up in Southborough MA, later moving to Clinton where he graduated from Clinton High School. He went on to graduate from the Worcester Polytechnic Institute class of 1955.
Jerry made his career of 42 years as a chemical engineer for American Cyanamid (later called Cytec Industries), as well as 28 years with the United States Army Reserve, achieving the rank of Colonel. His career brought him to Maplewood NJ where he and Charlotte raised their family.
Later moving to Kalamazoo MI, Fairfield CT, and finally retiring to The Pinehills in Plymouth. Jerry was a devout Catholic and faithfully attended St. Bonaventure Church. He was also a Eucharistic minister at the church and BID Hospital in Plymouth. Jerry was fiercely dedicated to his work and family. He will be deeply missed.
A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 10:00am at St. Bonaventure Church, Plymouth (Manomet) on Saturday May 11. Burial will follow at Mayflower Cemetery, Duxbury. Donations in Jerry’s memory may be made to St. Bonaventure Church, 803 State Road Plymouth, MA. 02360.
Cartmell-Davis Funeral Home of Plymouth assisted with arrangements.
