Alumnus, former IU trustee dies

Former IU trustee Stephen A. Backer, died Sunday morning after battling a brief illness. Backer was currently serving his second term as the  Carmel Clay School Board President.

Backer earned his undergraduate degree from IU in 1968 and received his law degree from IU in 1971. While at IU, Backer was a member of the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity and the Student Athletic Board.

In 1994, Backer was appointed to his first term as an IU trustee. His second term expired in 2004.

“We are all deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Backer," said Superintendent of Schools Barbara Underwood in a news release. "We send our thoughts and prayers to his family, including three of his children who are currently enrolled in our district. Mr. Backer was a dedicated public servant who spent tireless hours dedicated to our students, faculty and staff. His loss will affect us for many, many years to come, and we will always remember his service to our entire community.”

Backer's funeral will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Oak Hill Mansion, 5801 E. 116th St., Carmel, Ind. Memorial contributions may be made to The Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, 1201 E. Third St., Merrill Hall 003, Bloomington, Indiana 47405 or the Carmel Clay Education Foundation, 5201 E. 131st St., Carmel, Indiana 46033.