Found peace and was reunited with his beloved wife Marge (nee Ochoxner) on January 15, 2024. Loving father of Kyle (Kim), Kelly and Kraig Backes. Further survived by his grandchildren, Jordan (Kaitlin) and Ryan (Emily Duelge) Backes, and his great-granddaughters, Ella and Aubrey Backes. Casey was predeceased by parents, Matt and Ann Backes (Zimmer), sisters Jean (Don) Holton, and Dorothy (Gary) Peterson.

Born on October 8, 1933, in the small town of Clayton, Wisconsin, Casey earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. Following his graduation from UW-Superior, Casey received his reserve commission as a second lieutenant in June 1958. Upon completion of flight training, he entered advanced training at Mather AFB in California. Casey was subsequently assigned to Stead AFB in Nevada for advanced survival and combat crew training. He was then assigned to the 325 th Heavy Bombardment Squadron, 92 nd Air Force Wing, Fairchild AFB, Washington. Within a year, Casey, along with his crew, was selected as the lead B-52 crew for his squadron. Casey was later assigned as an instructor at the Advanced Survival School, Stead AFB, Nevada.

In 1964, Casey served with the 6146 th Military Assistance Advisory Group headquartered in Korea. After his Southeast Asia Tour, he was assigned to the 2 nd Air Force Inspection and Assistance Team stationed as Barksdale AFB, Louisiana. In 1969, Casey joined the 917 th Military Airlift Group at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana and was soon assigned to the Supply Squadron Commander's position. In 1972, he was selected as the 440 TAW Logistics Plans Officer and serve in that capacity until he was promoted to Colonel in 1983. At that time, he was reassigned to the Deputy Commander for Resources position. Later becoming the base commander at the 440 th TAW until his retirement in 1989. After retiring from the Air Force, he took a consulting position at the Air Force Academy for a few years.

He earned his Master of Science degree in counseling psychology from Troy State University in Montgomery, Alabama. During his time with the United States Air Force, he also attended several military schools, including Squadron Officers' School, Air Command & Staff College, The Industrial College of the Armed Forces, and Air War College.

Casey's military honors include the Legion of Merit, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.

In addition to serving his country for 35 years, Casey was also an avid bowler, hunter, golfer and outdoorsman. He loved traveling throughout Milwaukee and the country to bowl in tournaments with Marge and other friends. Thanksgiving was always a chance to get back home to deer hunt and spend time with relatives. He enjoyed traveling as well, and was proud of the fact that he was able to visit almost every state. Retiring in South Milwaukee, he enjoyed days at the Grobschmidt Senior Center playing pool and dart ball.

We would like to express a special thanks to Dr O'Tool and staff, St Croix Hospice, and the caring staff at The Waters of Oak Creek.

A Memorial Gathering at the Funeral Home on Saturday, January 27, 2024, 10:00AM-12 Noon. Memorial Service at 12 Noon. Private Inurnment and military honors at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove, WI. If desired, memorials to the Grobschmidt Senior Center in South Milwaukee.