Karen Lynn Backer

Karen Lynn Backer, age 72, passed away at her home on Tuesday, July 11, 2023.   Born in Ithaca, NY on March 31, 1951, she was the daughter of Dick and Betty (Morris) Backer.  Karen spent her early life in Glens Falls NY before returning to Ithaca after her father was hired as the Principal of Boynton Junior High School.   She graduated from Ithaca High School in 1969, where she played violin in the orchestra and swam on the swim team.  Karen matriculated to SUNY Potsdam where she earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education.

Karen taught in various local school systems before pursuing a second career as an Insurance/Financial advisor with the Prudential Insurance Company.  In 2001 Karen returned to teaching in the Dryden School System.  In 2008, she earned a second master’s degree in special education, and she taught children with special needs until she retired in 2012.

In 2001, Karen married the love of her life, Edmund Dellert, and they made a happy life together in their log cabin home where she enjoyed gardening and cooking.   She was a skilled cook and all who entered her home for a meal were certain to return.  Karen will be remembered as dedicated caregiver and fierce advocate for her children.

Karen is survived by her children, Graig Baker (Rachel Rasby) of Washington, DC and Patrick Baker (Kyra Coleman) of Ithaca, NY; stepchildren, Laura Dellert (Peter Rice) of Trumansburg, NY, Todd Dellert (Heidi) of Lanexa, VA, Gregg Dellert (Melinda) of Harvest, AL, and Mindy Dellert (Bill Hutley) of Derby, CT; grandchildren, Shelley Baker, Myles Baker, Chad and Casey Mehlenbacher, Taylor and Emma Rice, Kale and Karson Dellert, Eliza Dellert;  and sister Susan (Jeffrey) VanDeCar ; brothers Joe (Roxy) Backer, Jeff (Alison) Backer and sister-in-law Becky Backer.  She was predeceased by her daughter, Shelley Baker; husband, Edmund Dellert; brother Dick Backer.

A memorial service will be held privately by the family, at a later date however memories, stories and photos of Karen can be shared with the family at karenbackermemorial@googlegroups.com

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Bangs Funeral Home, Ithaca, NY.