John H. Back's Obituary
Our beloved, John Back (87), having done all to stand firm during his long battle with Parkinson’s disease and macular degeneration, laid down his battle armor on April 7th and is now resting peacefully in the arms of his Heavenly Father. He was in the loving care of his family as he transitioned to his eternal home.
John was born and raised in North Vernon, IN where he resided until being drafted into the U.S. Army. He was a proud veteran, having served in Germany during the Korean War. He went on to enjoy a fulfilling career of 36 years, at Caterpillar Tractor Company. As a highly respected engineer, John served as a liaison to several plants across the country and played an integral role in designing fuel pumps that are still in use in trucks today.
John married his high school sweetheart Ruth, in 1951 and moved to Washington, Illinois where they began their family. They later transferred to York, Pennsylvania and eventually retired in Tavares, Florida.
John was a man who believed in working hard and playing even harder. Some of his favorite activities included playing; dart ball with the men’s group from church, ping pong and croquet, with his family and card games such as pinochle and bridge with his wife and their friends. After his retirement, John and Ruth enjoyed life on the golf course, traveling across the US and to several other countries, and of course square dancing.
Throughout the years, John and Ruth dedicated their time to serving others in many capacities. Whether it was volunteering to coach his son’s little league baseball team, supporting his daughter’s basketball and softball teams, volunteering to reupholster the benches and kneelers at church, or organizing an event to raise money for a non-profit cause. John put his heart and soul into whatever he was doing and he did it with excellence.
John left a legacy to many who find themselves dealing with age-related macular degeneration when he helped to start “New Vision for Independence,” a school for the visually impaired in Leesburg, Florida. But his greatest legacy was the unending love and support that he provided to his family. As a pillar of strength, with Christ-like character and wisdom, he led his family through the best and worst of times and taught them all how to fight with perseverance, until the battle is won.
John will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. But we find comfort in knowing that in God’s care John rests above, and in our hearts he rests with love.
John’s funeral will be held at 9:00am on Friday, April 22 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church 6803 Old Hwy 441, Mt. Dora 32757 A celebration of life brunch will follow immediately after the service.
The family would like to ask you to consider a donation to New Vision for Independence in John’s remembrance, in lieu of flowers. You can find further detail at www.newvisionfl.org or by calling 352.435.5040
Condolences, memories and photos may be shared on the tribute wall.
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