Paula Backemeyer

Paula Backemeyer, 98, of Terre Haute, IN, passed away on March 26, 2023, at Regional Hospital in Terre Haute, IN. She was born on July 9, 1924, in Palestine, IL, the daughter of David LeRoy "Roy" & Pauline (Clayton) Fox, both of whom preceded her in death. She married Gilbert "Gib" Backemeyer on August 22, 1952, and he preceded her in death on October 20, 2001. She is survived by her sister & brother-in-law, Lee & Dick Vehling; by her nephews, Steve, Keith, and Ty; and by her nieces, Carla and Marcia.

Paula grew up in the Palestine area and was a graduate of Palestine High School. She would further her education at Eastern Illinois University, where she received a Bachelor of Home Economics degree. Following a stint with L.S. Ayres in Indianapolis, she worked in consumer relations for Indiana Power & Light before finishing her career at Allison Transmission, where she worked in administration.

Much of her time away from work found her with a needle and thread in hand, and she even made many of her own dresses through the years. An exceptional cook, Paula was known to make everything from scratch. Her beef stroganoff, in particular, was the stuff of legend and was enjoyed by family and friends alike. They could each speak to her interest in all things nutrition and supplements, and it's hard to argue with the results! Though we are thankful that she lived a long life, we are even more grateful that Paula Backemeyer filled her 98 years with real and genuine living.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 30th, at the Palestine Cemetery, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice, with envelopes available at the cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine is in charge of these arrangements.