Leon M. Backer, 72, of Elsmere, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 18, 2021, after a brief illness. Mr. Backer was born on February 14, 1948 in Bryn Mawr, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon J. and Elizabeth Backer (née Myers), and siblings Joseph and Cecilia Backer. Mr. Backer, a U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran, served his country and the DE Army National Guard. He retired as a Major. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Wilmington College in 1974. Mr. Backer was a Fourth Degree Knight, Past Faithful Navigator, of the Knights of Columbus, Archbishop Fitzmaurice Assembly, #0148. He served as Grand Knight of Blessed Sacrament Council, #3751. He was a Scoutmaster and Campmaster with the DelMarVa Council, B.S.A., an avid fisherman, and a car enthusiast. Mr. Backer is survived by his wife Susan (née Crawford); his children Amy Anderson, Leon D., and Emmy Backer; sister Mary E. Backer; brother Christopher J. and wife Helen; and sister-in-law, Carol Backer, Joseph's wife; nieces and nephews Matthew, Bridget, Daniel, Christopher J. Jr., wife Cait, and their sons Christopher and Jude; and his granddaughters Haille and Keira Anderson. Interment at the DE Veteran's Memorial Cemetery will be private. A memorial mass will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank the staff at Season's Hospice and Christiana Hospital for their professionalism and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society. Arrangements under the care of Mealey Funeral Homes & Crematory,.