Martin Spencer Backer

Martin Spencer Backer, beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away on December 5th 2023 after a long hard battle with heart failure.

The oldest child of Martin August Backer and Phoebe May Spencer, Marty was born on August 4th, 1948 in Salt Lake City. He was blessed with loving parents, three siblings, and a happy childhood. He grew up in the family business, Mrs. Backers Pastry Shop, working there from a very early age, until his passing. He and his wife, Renee, bought the business from his parents in 1983. In the years since he received many recognitions for his beautiful and delicious work including the "Governor's Mansion Artists Award of Excellence," "Best in State," and was an "Honored Professional" in the Who's Who of Executives.

Although he loved the bakery, his greatest joy was his family. He married Renee Garber Rowlette in 1973 in the Salt Lake Temple and they were blessed with two sons and two daughters. He adored his children and nine grandchildren, spending as much time with them as possible. He loved being a father and a grandfather. His children Wade and Stefanie, worked alongside him in the bakery for many years and he was very proud of them when they purchased the business and added many of their own strengths and talents. 

Marty was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a mission to the Central States including Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Iowa and Illinois. He held many church callings over the years but particularly enjoyed serving and teaching in the young men's program. He was always involved with service projects, scouting and sports. And he taught countless lessons by his example and generosity. 

He loved horses- riding, raising, training and even competing with them. Going for long, leisurely horse rides brought him relaxation and peace. Often, hours spent riding horses also involved having long conversations with children, grandchildren, and friends. 

Marty was a remarkable survivor even when he knew the end was near, he used his remaining strength working to benefit his family and lighten their load.

His greatest heartache and sadness was the passing of his oldest daughter, Tammy, in 1984 and his youngest son, Ty, in 2017. It was a void that he felt every day of his life.

Dad, your work clothes are worn out. Put them aside, leave your weary body, climb on your horse and ride home. Have a joyful reunion with your son and daughter and be at peace. Until we meet again…

Martin is survived by his wife of 50 years, Renee Backer, son M. Wade (Sandy) Backer, daughter Stefanie (Dan) Anjewierden and Daughter in law Jamie Backer, sister Betsy Backer and Brother Gerry (Bear) Backer and grandchildren Jenessa, Harvey, Luke, Emabelle, Jane, Martin, Blake, Avelynn and Quentin He was preceded in death by his daughter Tammy Renee Backer son Tygh John Backer, Parents Martin and Phoebe Backer and brother Russell Backer.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, December 11, 2023 at the LDS Ward Chapel, 1930 North 600 West, West Bountiful, Utah. A viewing will be held Sunday evening from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful and Monday morning 9:45-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to services.

Services will be streamed live on Russon Brothers Mortuary Facebook page and this obituary page.