DE BACKER – Francois “Frank” of Blasdell, 81, passed away peacefully in his home September 21, 2018 surrounded by his loving family members, after succumbing to Alzheimer’s disease, which he battled in recent years.
Francois was born in Aalst, Belgium, and emigrated to the United States with his parents Achille and Magdalena at the age of 14 in the aftermath of WWII. During high school he met his future wife Lottie Chmielewski on a blind date, who he married after serving abroad in the US Marine Corps from 1956-1958. He enjoyed 20 years of retirement after working 35 years at Ford Motor Company. He spent his time traveling with his wife and they enjoyed winters at their home in Kissimmee, Florida.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Lottie; daughter Karen (Michael) Gillette; and sons Frank and Mark (Shannon); as well as six grandchildren: Andrew, Alexis, Michael, Monica, Christian, and Sarah. Francois was always active and loved working around his home and garden. He loved his family dearly and will be forever missed.
Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Southtowns Chapel) 3060 Abbott Rd. near Lake Ave. on Thursday from 4-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church 3148 Abbott Rd., Orchard Park on Friday morning at 11:30 AM. (Please assemble at church) Entombment Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Francois De Backer Tribute Fund through the Alzheimer’s Association
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