Keith A. “Hoopy” Backus, Sr., age 75, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at his Monaca residence following a brief illness. He was raised in Weirton, West Virginia, and lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, service, and devotion to his community.

Hoopy was the beloved husband of Patricia Crawford Backus, to whom he was married on June 5, 1971, and with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children, Heidi and her husband Chris, Keith, Jr. and his wife Donna, Russell and his wife Christine, and James and his wife Rachelle; and his ten cherished grandchildren, Matt, Lindsay, Kayla, Dominic, Angelina, Elizabeth, Allison, Madison, Russell, and Mason. He is also survived by his sister, Elsie Donnelly; his brother, Roy Backus; his brothers-in-law, William Crawford and Thomas Crawford and his wife Denise; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Elma Backus, and by siblings Charles, Wade, Russell, Judith, and Bonnie. He was one of eight children and carried the bonds of family with him throughout his life.

Hoopy worked as a truck driver hauling furniture and freight, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and dependable nature. He was a member of the Western Pennsylvania Teamsters Local Union #249. In 1968, he joined the Merchant Marines in Bayonne, New Jersey, answering the call to serve his country with courage and commitment during the Vietnam War. He was also a member of the National Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Weirton V.F.W. Post #2716, affiliations that reflected his pride in service and his connection to fellow veterans.

A man deeply rooted in his community, Hoopy devoted 25 years to the Monaca No. 1 Volunteer Fire Department. He was also a member of the Western Pennsylvania Firemen’s Association and the Beaver County Fire Fighters Association.

In addition to his service and work, Hoopy found great joy in the experiences he shared with his wife, Patty. Together they especially enjoyed traveling around the country as part of the Civil War Re-enactors First Battalion Hospital group. These travels created treasured memories and reflected their shared interest in history and companionship.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 11th from 1 – 8 pm at the Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca where a service will be conducted at 8 pm with his friend and chaplain of the Civil War Re-enactors, Lance Bender, officiating.