Michael "Mike" James Backley

Michael “Mike” James Backley

Loved Helping People -

Michael “Mike” James Backley, age 77, of Mechanicsburg, went to his eternal home on Friday, December 11, 2020.  Mike was born on Sunday, February 7, 1943, in Llano, Texas, to the late Robert T. Backley and Stella (Siedlecki) Backley.  In addition to his parents, Mike is preceded in death by several of his beloved German shepherd pets.

Mike’s survivors include his wife of 54 years, Carol Rosene (Swartz) Backley; his two siblings: Robert “Bobby” M. Backley of Mechanicsburg, Ruth Ann Smith of Mechanicsburg; his niece, Lisa Stella DeVore, her husband Adam, and their daughter, Lauren, of Williamsburg, Virginia; his dear friend, Alexander “Al” Worchesky and wife Nancy of New Cumberland, and his one remaining German shepherd.

Mike married Carol Swartz in 1966, and lived in Mechanicsburg throughout his life.  He graduated from Cumberland Valley High School, and enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served as a sergeant for three years. Mike worked as a mechanic for Robert Condon for six years, spent two years at Chevron Oil Company in Harrisburg, followed by nine years as a guard at the former White Hill Prison in Camp Hill.  He finished his career as a mechanic with Robert Good in Mechanicsburg.  Mike could build and fix anything, and he shared his talent of mechanics with his fellow members at Hope United Methodist Church, where he served in helping others in the community.  Mike earned his private pilot license at Skyport Airport in Mechanicsburg.  He belonged to a bowling league and enjoyed hunting, fishing with his friends at the Potter County Camp, spending time with Carol, and walking with their German shepherds in the mountains.

All are welcome to join Mike’s family at his gathering of family and friends on Tuesday, December 22, 2020, from 10:00 a.m. until time of memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at Hope United Methodist Church, 6260 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050; with Rev. Dr. Richard E. Denison, Jr. officiating.  Cremation was private.

Contributions in celebration of Mike’s life can be made to Hope United Methodist Church, 6260 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050, www.hopeumc.susumc.org/home/giving.

Mike’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Mike’s full obituary, view his memorial video, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.