Jean Backus Lindemer

Jean Backus Lindemer passed away peacefully on July 6, 2011, at her home surrounded by her loving and devoted family. Mrs. Lindemer was born in Detroit, Michigan on April 24, 1923, the daughter of Phebe Wells Ettinger and Glen L. Ettinger. She was a 1944 graduate of Albion College, where she earned a Bachelors degree with a double major in Spanish and Portuguese languages. She was a member of Kappa Delta national sorority. She met her husband of 46 years, Ross Allen Backus, at Albion. They were married during World War II in 1944 when Mr. Backus was on leave from the United States Navys officer training school before his deployment to the South Pacific theatre of war. She is predeceased by Mr. Backus, who owned Ross Backus Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac, G.M.C , Inc., in Sebring . Mrs. Lindemer is survived by her husband of 19 years, the Honorable Lawrence B. Lindemer, former Michigan Supreme Court Justice, of Avon Park and Stockbridge, MI; son, Ross Allen Backus II of Sebring, daughter, Pamela Backus Hansen (Charlie) of Avon Park, grandchildren, Brett Allen Backus, Benjamin Ross Backus, Mari Jean Hansen Ball (Kevin) and Jenna Leigh Hansen. She and Mr. Backus resided in Owosso, Michigan from 1955-1969. She was active in the Owosso Memorial Hospital Foundation Board and a variety of local charities. She held leadership roles in Boy and Girl Scouts while her children were active in scouting, and in educational programs benefitting their schools. Mrs. Lindemer was active in many civic, educational, and political organizations and a life-long Christian Scientist. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the American Association of University Women, served as Chairman of Education for the Michigan Federation of Republican Women, Chairperson of the Republican Party of Michigans statewide speakers bureau, and a delegate to the 1964 Republican National Convention. In the 1960s, she served two terms on the Board of Trustees of Central Michigan University, appointed by then- Governor George Romney. During her tenure, especially as Vice Chair, the university made extensive strides forward. In Highlands County, she and Mr. Lindemer have contributed to the SFCC Cultural Series as sponsors of performances and supported the SFCC Foundation, among other charities. She was a member of the Avon Park Gourmet Club and Pinecrest Golf and Country Club. She was an avid reader and strong believer in life-long education and her Christian faith. Her most important and active role has been the constant and generous love and devotion to her family. A private, family, memorial service was held in her home with the Reverend Darrell Arnold, pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.