Gene W. Backstrom, age 80, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2009 at Home Place in Burlington, Washington. He was born March 27, 1928 in Everett, Washington to Carl and Vera Brotten Backstrom.
Gene grew up and attended school in Everett and during WWII he served with the Sea Bees in the Philippines.
While courting his wife Lois, he flew a seaplane from the Everett area and landed on the Skagit River. They were married on May 7, 1949 in Sedro-Woolley and he has resided here since.
Gene worked for Skagit Steel for 34 years as an assembly supervisor and after his retirement he worked as a consultant for them traveling overseas.
Family, Military Service, Work, Hunting, Fishing, and Camping were important to Gene as well as being there for his children with his laughter and a helping hand. He also enjoyed woodworking and gardening.
Gene is survived by his wife, Lois Backstrom of Sedro-Woolley. His children, Barb Backstrom and her companion Dale ‘Ed’ Buss of Ferndale, Diane Backstrom of Colville, Gene Backstrom of Kenai, AK, Katy Stall and her husband John of Sutherlin, OR, Glenn Backstrom and his wife Jen of Sedro-Woolley and Amanda Hall and her husband Greg of Sedro-Woolley. 10 grandchildren, Chad and his wife Holly, Jeremy, Zac, Nick, Gavin, Lane, Michelle, Andrew, Katie, Emily, and 2 great-grandchildren, Kyle and Ashley.
He is survived by his brother, Byron Backstrom and his wife Robinette of Everett and numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving are his sisters-in-laws and camping and fishing partners, Bernice Oakes and Joyce and Finn Amundson. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bob Backstrom, a sister, Gwen Paige and and his favorite uncle, Ron Brotten.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Home Place for the special care given to Gene.
Memorial Services will be held Saturday, January 10, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Cascade Christian Church in Sedro-Woolley with Pastor Tim Farnham officiating. Memorials are suggested to Arthritis Foundation 3876 Bridge Way N. #300 Seattle, WA 98103 or your favorite charity. Arrangements and Services under the care of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.
