Dennis L. Backman, 89, of Genoa, Nebraska, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Columbus Community Hospital.

No public services are planned. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

Dennis was born on May 9, 1936, in Genoa, Nebraska, to Elmer and Ena (Huffaker) Backman. He graduated from Genoa High School in 1954 and enlisted in the U.S. Army that same year. He served in the anti-aircraft group and spent time overseas in Germany before being honorably discharged in 1956.

On January 14, 1961, Dennis married Jeanette Wruble at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Genoa. They made their home in Genoa, where they raised their family. Dennis worked for Loup Public Power District for 32 years, retiring in March 1997. On March 15, 2024, he was honored for his many years of continuous membership in the American Legion Post 0144—recognition he was deeply proud of.

Dennis is survived by his sons, Tim Backman of Genoa and Todd (Lisa) Backman of Monroe; his granddaughters, Kendall (Tyler) Roewert of Columbus and Callie Backman of Monroe; his grandsons, Lucas (Taylor) Backman of Omaha, and Kaden Backman and Cael Backman of Monroe; and his great-granddaughters, Ryloh, Kruz, and Indie Roewert. He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Mickey of Fremont; brothers-in-law, Don Wruble of Sparta, Tennessee, and Wayne (Nancy) Wruble of Chandler, Arizona; along with many nieces and nephews.

Dennis was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette Backman; his daughter, Tama Jean Backman; his parents, Elmer and Ena Backman; his in-laws, Theodore and Eleanor Wruble; and his sister-in-law, Margaret Wruble.