Systems (1974-1977), and member of the NRC Committee on Renewable Resources for Industrial Materials, Fiber Panel (1975-1976).

His achievements are reflected in his more than 90 papers, contributions to three books, and seven patents. For his scholarly publications and lectures and his public service he received numerous honors and awards: Harold DeWitt Smith Medal; ASTM D-13 (1962); first Academic Fiber Society Lecturer (1964-1965); Honorary Member, ASTM (1972); Honorary Life Member, European Council of Textile Research Directors (1972); TIUC “Backer” Award (1972); Honorary Fellow, Textile Institute (1973); the first Kenneth L. Hertel Lecturer (1976); Edward E. Schwarz Memorial Lecturer, ASME (1979); Gossett Lecturer, North Carolina State University (1981); Honorary Member, The Fiber Society (1986); Member, National Academy of Engineering (1992); the first Carothers Medal, Textile Institute, UK (1992).

After a long and distinguished career in teaching and research, at the age of 69, Stan retired to become an emeritus professor and senior lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. This remarkable, brilliant, unforgettable person and man of honor respected all others and helped many to pursue their education, careers, and even personal lives. His love for his colleagues and students is apparent in his last publication, 100 Years of Textiles at MIT, a volume that contains brief biographies of most of those who were touched by him.

He is survived by his wife, Esther Backer; his sons, Richard and Jonathan Backer; his grandsons, Samuel, Jacob, and Saul Backer; and his brother, Morton Backer.