Phillip Tebbetts Backer, 80

Phillip Backer passed away on Sept. 24, 2014, from the ravages of Alzheimer's.

Phillip was born on Oct. 22, 1933, in Los Angeles, Calif. He attended EI Rodeo Grammar School and Beverly Hills High School, where he played football and was a member of the swim team where he excelled at the backstroke. He was a member of Corsairs, a high school fraternal group which until recently had a reunion every year since high school.

Phillip had four wonderful years at Stanford University, which were enhanced by his association with Alpha Delta Phi fraternity. Many brothers remained friends throughout his life, especially Bud Barnes who remained in contact through all the years of Phil's illness. After graduating from Stanford University he proudly entered the Marine Corps and remained in the active reserve for 23 years, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel.

While stationed at Camp Pendleton, Phil met his wife Patricia in Laguna Beach, Calif. They remained married until his death, and would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on Oct. 12.

Patricia and Phil enjoyed three wonderful years in Charlottesville, Va., where Phil attended the University of Virginia Law School and where Randon was born. Upon graduation, they returned to Los Angeles where Kendall was born, and Phillip enjoyed a tenure with the District Attorney's office before entering the law firm of Kirtland and Packard. He retired a partner in 1991 to enjoy the beauties of Northern Idaho. Life in Idaho was made all the more enjoyable by membership in the Hayden Lake Country Club where so many wonderful friends have expressed their bereavement at his passing.

Phillip enjoyed skiing and golf, but most of all travel. Every year saw trips to some part of the world, but mostly Europe and especially France, often with dear friends.

Phil had a smile for everyone, even during the almost eight years that he suffered from Alzheimer's; a disease that ravaged his body and mind. He will be missed by so many - even the wonderful caregivers who held his hand as he deteriorated. Even though they never had the chance to know the total Phil, his spirit showed through to the end. And for those who really knew him, Phil will always be remembered for his warm smile and joyful laugh.

He was the beloved husband of Patricia, the father of Kendall, and was preceded in death by his son, Randon. Phillip lost his older sister, Barbara, the preceding year. His older brother Tom, and cherished twin sister Valerie, reside in Southern California.

He will be so missed.

A celebration of Phil's life is planned from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Hayden Lake Country Club, 2362 E. Bozanta Dr., Hayden Lake.