Nancy Backer, 79
Nancy Kay Backer, 79, of Brandon, passed away Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Ava’s Hospice House in Sioux Falls. The family will be present for a memorial visitation from 5-7 p.m. Friday, July 17 at George Boom Funeral Chapel in Brandon. Her memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026 also at George Boom Funeral Chapel in Brandon. Following the memorial service, the family invites all to join them for a celebration at the Brandon Golf Course.
Nancy Kay Horn was born May 16, 1947, to Lyle and Twila (Spencer) Horn in Lincoln, Neb., raised by Leslie and Ruth (Mackey) Horn on a farm in Allen, Neb. She attended school in Allen until the seventh grade. The family moved to South Sioux City, Neb., where Nancy graduated from high school in 1965. Following her schooling, she worked a short time at Zenith and Kalins Heating & Air Conditioning. On April 16, 1966, she started work at Northwestern Bell- where she retired 36 years later. Nancy married Steven F. McArthur, Nov. 26, 1966. They had two children, Stacy Lee and Matthew Mark. Nancy and Steve divorced in 1992. Nancy met Gerald E. Backer on March 17, 1993, and they were married on March 17, 2001. She gained three stepsons, Kevin (Georgia), Keith and Kurt (Kristan) Backer. Nancy had seven grandchildren, eight step grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
After their marriage, she joined Jerry at his business, Brandon Plumbing and Heating as the office manager. Also at that time, she volunteered at the VFW Auxiliary, where she contributed many baked goods for the bake sales. Nancy was well known for her pies. She was also the treasurer for the Brandon Golf Association. In 2005, Nancy and Jerry sold Brandon Plumbing and Heating and became snowbirds, wintering in Gold Canyon, Ariz., for the next 17 years. They met many friends there and enjoyed entertaining. Prior to buying their home in Arizona, they enjoyed time at their home on Lake Madison.
Nancy enjoyed golfing, bowling and playing cards, but most of all she will be remembered for her cleaning. he always wanted everything to be neat and clean – house, car and yard. Her kindness and generosity to all grandkids, nieces, nephews and friends will also be remembered.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Connie, Judy and Susie.
For online condolences, visit georgeboom.com.
