Betty Jean Backes, age 75 of Prescott, WI, passed away peacefully, after her second battle with cancer on May 9, 2021.  Betty was born September 6, 1945 in Cincinnati, OH to Hezzie and Thelma (Townsend) Rogers.  On May 4, 1964, Betty was united in marriage to Bruce A. Backes.  Their lives were blessed with three children, Gale, Gregory and Brandon, and thirty-five years of marriage.  Betty lovingly raised her family and took over the family business, “Auto Tech Tune & Repair” after Bruce’s death in 1999.  She proudly operated the business until recently, when her son, Greg, became the next generation of the operation.  An entrepreneur throughout her life, Betty always found a way to use her talents.  In her earlier years, she taught swimming lessons, operated a greenhouse and ran a dog grooming business.

Betty loved being outdoors and much of her time and energy was spent meticulously tending to and maintaining her lawn and gardens.  She had a tender heart for nature and appreciated watching wildlife but was a “tough cookie” and was not afraid to grab a chainsaw and cut down a tree if needed.    Betty delighted in crafting, sewing, making silk flower arrangements and painting ceramics.  Many of her crafts are treasures for her family.  She was a wonderful cook, who enjoyed southern fried chicken and made the best eggs.  Betty was especially fond of traveling and seeing the world.  She had great intuition, with a nurturing and generous heart for others.  Betty was especially proud of her family and treasured her time with her children and grandchildren.

Betty will remain in the hearts of her children, Gale (David) Jamison of Lakeville, MN, Gregory Backes of Prescott, WI and Brandon (Julie) Backes of Prescott, WI; grandchildren:  Kyle Jamison, Parker Jamison, Justine Backes, Kaylee Backes, Leah Backes, Kevin Backes and Ashlyn Backes; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce A. Backes; parents, Hezzie and Thelma Rogers; brothers, Shirley (Bertha) Rogers and Delmer Rogers.

A Visitation for family and friends will take place 1:00 – 3:00 PM Friday, May 14, 2021 at O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home, 1339 Orrin Rd., Prescott.  A graveside service will follow at 3:30 PM at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Prescott.

Funeral services are entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Funeral Home of Prescott (715) 262-5404.  www.oconnellfuneralservices.com