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Ben Backman Obituary
BACKMAN - Bengt Carl Arvid With sadness we announce the passing of Ben Backman, at home in Port Moody, BC on November 1, 2009. He fought a 9-year battle with cancer with determination and grace, never complained, setting an example for us all. Ben was born May 21, 1936 in Jacobstad, Finland. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 52 years, Carole; 4 children, Catherine (Wayne Parker), Ken, Kelley (Jeff Lovestead), Chris (Julie Karlsen); grandchildren Reiko, Nicole, Jessie, Ben, Darek, Katelin, Daniel, Stephanie, Niki, Evan, Kody, Taylor, Kadance, and Taylor; extended family, friends and business associates. His mother Aili, sister Bernice, and father Arvid predeceased him. Ben grew up in east Vancouver, became a carpenter, and married Carole in 1957. They soon established their family and general contracting company, Kingston Construction. He pursued many interests throughout his life, including lacrosse, Lions Club, golfing, sailing, traveling, and entertaining. With martini in hand, Ben was the life of the party. Many charities as well as his children's and grandchildren's activities and sports benefited from his support. Ben was respected for his contributions to the Construction Labour Relations Association of BC, including two terms as chairman, and very much enjoyed his affiliation with the CLR, CCA and other organizations in the construction industry he loved, especially the social functions and conventions. His legacy as a contractor includes enduring structures throughout BC, Alberta and the Yukon, but the most cherished legacy is his family, who will miss his wisdom, generosity and huge heart. A Celebration of Life will be held at Swan-e-set Bay Resort & Country Club, 16651 Rannie Road, Pitt Meadows, on Tuesday, November 10, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. Because Ben was a member of the Chairman's Circle, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ben's memory to the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation, 330 East Columbia St., New Westminster, BC, V3L 3W7.
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17 Entries
Saul Parker
November 19, 2009
Sorry for your loss. Saul Parker, Rockville, Md.
Brian Brackman
November 16, 2009
The Brackman family wish to off their condolences on the loss of your husband and father. Our family were old friends with the Howes,Mel,Brian and Ron send their prayers to Carol at this time.
November 14, 2009
Carole, my deepest condolences to you and the family on Ben's passing. What a fight he put up; what a legacy he leaves. The distance of these many miles don't diminish my sadness, in my thoughts I am often still there in good old Vancouver.
Marguerite (Clark) Humphries, San Rafael, California
Tammy Pigeault
November 9, 2009
My deepest condolences to the Backman family, I am so sorry for your loss.
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November 8, 2009
Dear Kelly and Family
Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.If you need anything remember its only a phone call away. Patty & Harry
Rois Harder
November 6, 2009
Ben was in my home room at Vancouver Technical a long time ago.. 1952/53 I think. He was always that kind, friendly person, and when I saw him again at Van. Tech's Reunion on April of 2005, Ben was the same as ever.. I got to shake his hand, and we shared a few memories.. Rois
Therese, Bill, Jonathon & Katrina Stewart
November 6, 2009
Dear Kelley and family
We are saddened to hear about the loss of your dad. We know that family was everything to him, and he was lucky to have all of you in his life as you were to have him in yours. Live life one day at a time and know that he will always be with you in your heart and watching over all of you.
Katelin Raiche
November 6, 2009
I cant believe my Grandpa is gone..
He was the most amazing man.. He always did everything for everyone else first.
He loved his family more then anything.
We were his pride and joy.
I dont want to go on without him.
I miss him every second of everyday.
Grandpa, we will take care of Grandma..
I love you forever and always..
Your now the angel watching over me.
November 6, 2009
Mr. Backman's support and ralationship with our business is one which we will always be grateful. It is with sincere sadness that I give my condolances to your family.
Regards,
Norm Raitt
Krista Langtry
November 5, 2009
Carole, in the handful of times I enjoyed social engagements with you, Ben and my parents I always enjoyed Ben's company. He was so much fun to be around. As I walk along Alderside I will miss seeing Ben drive by; always with a smile on his face.
Sincerely,
Krista Langtry (Dennett)
Ron & Roni Wosk
November 5, 2009
For the Backman Family
Our thoughts are with all of you coping with this huge loss. We fondly remember his laugh, positive attitude and martini wielding hand.
Bengt will be missed by all who knew him!
gordon and margaret ion
November 5, 2009
Carole how very sad we are to hear of bens passing, l know with time so many happy memories will prevail. Our thoughts are for you and your family. Will contact you when we return from apia, samoa
Shelly Kean
November 5, 2009
Dear Kelley ~ What I will remember most about your dad was his enduring joie de vivre; he always laughed easily, heartily, and often (and God knows, he had to to stay sane through all our teenage years!)
Ben's larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this sad time.
Love,
Shelly
Jim Tonn
November 5, 2009
Carole; I was very sorry to hear of Ben's passing.He was a good man and will long be remembered. My prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Kathy Wipf
November 5, 2009
Kelley and family:
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad.
Life brings tears,
smiles and memories.
The tears dry,
the smile fades,
but the memories
live on forever.
Please know we are thinking of you at this time.
Love Rob and Kathy Wipf
Lianne Wilson
November 5, 2009
Kelley and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope the love of friends will comfort you all through this difficult time and the days ahead.
Christine & Tony Passalacqua
November 5, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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