Obituary of Elsie Backa

July 17, 1931 - September 23, 2025

Elsie Mary Rose Backa (Pronovost), age 94, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Elsie was born on July 17, 1931, in Bridgeport, Connecticut to Joseph and Marie Anne (Rousseau) Pronovost. The family later moved to Shawinigan, Quebec. There, Elsie completed a business course as part of her high school education and worked as a secretary for Consolidated Paper for 15 years.

She married Mauno Backa on September 12, 1964, and together they raised two children. Early in their marriage, Elsie participated in a bowling league and a curling team. Additionally, she enjoyed sewing and knitting. Mauno worked as an electrical engineer for Quebec Hydro and Bechtel Corporation. His career led them to live in many locations across Canada and the United States including Quebec, California, Ontario, Connecticut, and British Columbia. Elsie and Mauno enjoyed travelling and spending time with family and friends. They particularly cherished time with their grandchildren. In her later years, Elsie enjoyed playing Bingo, doing word search puzzles, and watching the birds and butterflies in the garden.

She was predeceased by her husband, Mauno; her sister, Rolande Pronovost; and her brother, Wallace Pronovost (the late Aline). She is survived by her son, Karl Backa; her daughter, Dr. Evelyn Backa (Patrick Kelly); her grandsons, Phoenix and Xander Kelly; her sisters, Lillian Jack (the late John) and Arline De Lagrave (the late François); and many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Boyce Funeral Home Ltd., 138 Daniel Street N., Arnprior. A graveside service will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026 at Arnprior Albert Street Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow at the Boyce Reception Centre.