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Mitchie Backiel, 90

July 27, 2025

In Loving Memory of Mitchie Backiel

September 15, 1934 – July 27, 2025

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Mitchie Backiel, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and veteran, passed away on July 27, 2025, in Williamstown at the age of 90.

Born on Sept. 15, 1934, in Northampton, Mitch dedicated his life to service and education. He served honorably in the U.S. Army Medical Corps as a medic, teacher, and researcher, instilling in others the same discipline and compassion that defined his life.

After his military service, Mitch devoted decades to teaching biology and chemistry at Mount Greylock Regional High School. Education was his path forward and his passion — he found deep purpose in inspiring young people to believe in themselves and recognize their potential.

He was married to Mary Ann K. Backiel for 69 years, and together they built a loving home filled with learning, laughter, and strength. Mitch was a fighter, enduring numerous health challenges throughout his life with courage and humor. A longtime sufferer of colitis, he often joked about writing "The Best Bathrooms in America" — always finding light even in hardship.

Above all, Mitch was a family man. He was deeply proud of his children — Mark, Matthew, and Martha — and adored his grandchildren Hannah, Brennan, and Alex.

His legacy lives on in the countless students he inspired, the family he cherished, and the example of resilience and kindness he set every day. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.

Recollections & Sympathy For the Family
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We are so sorry for your loss. Mitch was a fun colleague and teacher.
from: Bill and Pat Girard	on: 08-12-2025

I am sorry for your loss. May warm memories and good thoughts help you through this difficult time. I remember when I was in community studies at Mt. Greylock and we went to Cape Cod. Mr. Backiel was a great teacher and friend. He truly cared about his students, and he really wanted them to thrive and succeed. R.I.P. Mr. Backiel
from: Jim "Cricket" Wondoloski, Jr	on: 08-11-2025

Mr B was funny - smart - caring n cool - rip Mitchie
from: Ginny Fuller	on: 08-09-2025

I remember him as a gifted teacher, so smart and
from: Deborah Burns	on: 08-06-2025

He was the best teacher I ever had and that includes the numerous ones I had in undergraduate and graduate colleges. He passed his love of biology to me and I received a Biology degree and a Criminal Justice masters degree due to his early impression on me at Greylock. I enjoyed his humor as well. I did not know he had served in the military, but as a veteran myself, I am truly honored to have known him. He was the best.
from: Susan Semon Iverson	on: 08-06-2025

Mitch and MaryAnn together in life and the afterlife. It was meant to be. Some of the nicest people that I have come across in my line of of work. Always great conversation. Just nice people that I was so happy to see on occasion. I never knew their life story from years ago….. if only I could Rest easy together now my friends.
from: Debbie Mendel	on: 08-06-2025

After Sputnik, Mitch was recipient of Nat’l science Foundation Fellowships; his devotion to superior academics crossed disciplines as he inspired faculty to have high standards. I treasure a book he gave me “So Human An Animal” by Rene Dubos.
from: Martha Dailey	on: 08-05-2025

Mr Backiel's Biology class was my most favorite part of the day in high school - he made complicated dry science into such meaningful, life affirming, fun. Grateful for him! My condolences to his family.
from: Sacha Yanow	on: 08-05-2025

Mitchie was one of a kind. Irreverent on occasion but so very right most of the time. Working with him, knowing him was absolute pleasure. He was a superb teacher with high standards. His legacy is sufficiently strong to live on for many years.
from: Donna Wied	on: 08-05-2025

My sincere sympathy on the loss of both of your parents. Like countless others, I was his student and loved the class. He was brilliant, funny and dedicated. Because I remained here in Williamstown, I counted Mitch as a friend. He was a true gentleman and an inspiration. I am sure you have a million memories; cherish them. Sharon
from: Sharon DeMyer Nemser	on: 08-05-2025

Mr. Backiel was a true OG, as the contemporary saying goes. Excellent teacher and I feel fortunate I was a student of his. Condolences to your family for a pair of profound losses recently. Peace to you.
from: Ross Ackley	on: 08-04-2025

Mark, Matthew & Martha, I am so sorry for your loss. Your loss is heavens gain. Mitch was an outstanding guy and cared for all of his students. Good and faithful servant! The world is a better place for him having been here. Class of 1980 and one of many!
from: PATRICK M MCCOLGAN	on: 08-04-2025

Very sad to read of Mr Backiel's passing. He was one of my favorite teachers.
from: Robert Shoestock Sr	on: 08-04-2025

My sincere condolences for Mr. Backiel. I fondly remember his biology class at MGRHS back in the 1960's. May he rest in peace.
from: Carl Villanueva	on: 08-04-2025