Jon "YANK" Backman 7/24/1957 – 11/29/2012 Jon Backman, 55, of Fort Payne, AL,  formerly of Ilion, NY passed away on November 29, from the results of a motorcycle accident. He was the son of the late Roy Backman and Joyce Backman, of Fort Payne, AL. Jon is survived by three daughters, Jasmine Vega, Holly Backman and Chelsea Vega, of Bakersfield, California, 12 grandchildren that he adored, and a special nephew, Army Special Forces, Donald LeRolland who he raised beginning in 1984.  He also leaves behind a brother, Gary and his wife Ellen, and three sisters, Judy Matteson, Linda and her husband Vic Wood, and June and her husband Paul Keddell, with countless nieces and nephews. He also leaves to mourn his memory, hundreds of Motorcycle club buddies who loved him. He was preceded in death by his sister Sharon LeRolland and his brother Roy Backman. In addition to being a life-long, skilled carpenter, Jon was a self-less philanthropist avidly raising money to support cancer patients and Toys-4-Tots.  Jon was an awesome fisherman and hunter who prepared his game with the skill of a master chef. He never met anyone who didn't become a good friend because he was so easy to love. We will all cherish our memories of him. Local arrangements are with the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home Inc. 100 Otsego St. in Ilion. On line condolences may be sent by going to www.whiter-hendrix.com.