Jeffrey Thomas "Bubba" Backhus

Age 31, of Ottawa, Illinois, and formerly of Morris, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at his home.

Born August 4, 1994, in Morris, Jeffrey is a son of Catherine Ann Enger of Morris and Mark Charles Backhus of Ottawa. He grew up in Morris and attended Morris Community High School. Bubba recently spent time in California, where he worked as a Behavioral Health Technician, and was most recently employed alongside his father in the family business, Gordon & Backhus Glass and Lock.

Bubba had a love for fishing and treasured the companionship of his dog, Dizzy. Known for his easygoing nature, he enjoyed conversation, made friends easily, and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He had a special way with children, and especially cherished his niece and nephews, taking great joy in being part of their lives.

Bubba will be remembered for his kind heart, his warm smile, and the many ways he brought laughter and friendship to those who knew him.

Survivors include his parents, Cathy and Mark; niece, Caelyn; nephews: Brandon, Tristan and Michael, Jr. and aunts and uncles: John (Kathy) Maddox, Tom (Sue) Sokolinski, Lucy Enger, Les (Julie) Enger, Tom Enger and Jeff (Marquita) Popidinski.

Bubba was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Charles Backhus; grandparents: Les and Mary June Enger and Charles and Ruth Backhus, and his dear great aunt, Lucy Novotne.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation and celebration of Bubba’s life at Reeves Funeral Home, 408 East Washington Street (one block east of Illinois Route 47) in Morris on Friday, August 15, 2025 between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may be made as gifts in Bubba’s memory to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Bubba’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-2500)