Clarence J. Backstrom

Clarence "Dad" Backstrom passed away peacefully at his home October 10, 2010. He was 92. Clarence was born and raised in Cannon Township, Lake Bronson, Minnesota. On October 25, 1947, he married the love of his life, Joyce (Berg). They were married 61 years. They lived on Clarence's grandfather's farm and worked morning, noon and night, 365 days a year. They continued to farm until 1956. In November 1956, they moved to Long Beach, CA. Clarence went to work at Douglas Aircraft as a mechanic, retiring in 1983. He was active with Long Beach Little League, his church University Lutheran (Hope Community), where he had been a member for 52 years. Clarence could capture an audience immediately just by saying, "I remember" or the times he would pull out his harmonica or guitar for he truly loved music. Clarence and Joyce had an "open door" policy. They loved to visit, with family and friends. Clarence was proud of his 20 grandchildren and their spouses, five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Clarence is survived by his children, Craig and Wendee Backstrom, Bryan and Lori Backstrom, Neil Backstrom, Kirk Backstrom, Joy and Jon Anderson; and brother, Harold Backstrom. Clarence was preceded by his loving wife, Joyce; son, Dana; and grandson, Carl. "Dad" will be greatly missed, he left us with this thought, "As our offspring's go through life, my one advice is don't lose touch with each other because there is nothing like family. Love and help each other. Friends are great, but in the time of need there's nothing like family." Visitation will be held Sunday, October 17, 2010 at Forest Lawn in Cypress from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Services will be held Monday, October 18 at 12 p.m. at Hope Community Church, 1429 Clark Ave., Long Beach, CA. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the foundation for Parkinson's research, donations@michaeljfox.org.