Gertrude M. Backhaus, "Gertie", age 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2015 at Kathy Hospice. She was born on May 3, 1928 in Milwaukee to Fredrick and Anne (nee Foley) DeLorme. Gertie was raised in Milwaukee, WI and later moved to Manitowoc where she graduated from Manitowoc High School in 1946. She met Myron "Cisco" Backhaus and they married on December 27, 1958 at Holy Innocence Catholic Church in Manitowoc. Gertie was employed as a teacher in the West Bend and the surrounding school districts for 42 years and retired from Badger Middle School. She was also a long time forensic coach in the state.

She and Cisco were long time members at HON-E-KOR Country Club in Kewaskum, where they enjoyed golfing and socializing with friends. They also enjoyed trips to the West to visit their daughter, and trips to Northern Wisconsin in the fall. She enjoyed golfing, bowling and traveling through Europe and the U.S. with her friend of many years, Lu Freeze. Gertie was an avid reader. She volunteered at the Washington County Historical Society for 21 years and also at the West Bend Food Pantry.

Gertie's pride and joy were her grandsons Brett and Brady who helped take care of her these last few years.

Gertie is survived by her children Mark Backhaus of West Bend and Kristin Backhaus of Gillette, WY; grandsons Brett and Brady; siblings John (Anne) DeLorme and Patricia (Ken) Doughman. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Cisco, her parents, and many dear friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Frances Cabrini (1025 S. 7th Ave. West Bend, WI 53095) on Tuesday, July 14th at 4:45 PM. Visitation will be held at the church from 3:00-4:30 PM. Interment will take place at Washington County Memorial Park in West Bend on Thursday, July 16th at 11:00 AM. As an expression of sympathy memorial contributions may be sent to The Albrecht Free Clinic (P.O. Box 632 West Bend, WI 53095), The Washington County Historical Society (320 S. 5th Ave. West Bend, WI 53095), St Frances Cabrini Church (1025 S. 7th Ave. West Bend, WI 53095), or the Kathy Hospice (3232 Pleasant Valley Rd. West Bend, WI 53095).

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Kathy Hospice.