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Dr. John Randolph Backman
Dr. John Randolph Backman
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John Backman Obituary
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Born in Brooklyn, NY in 1946, Dr. Backman grew up in Scarsdale. After graduating from New York University School of Medicine in 1972, where he was a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, he completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Albert Einstein School of Medicine. Drawn to the sun and temperate weather, he moved west to complete his fellowship in cardiology at the University of California, San Diego.
Dr. Backman was a Fellow of The American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, American College of Chest Physicians, American College of Sports Medicine, and the American College of Physicians. He served as physician and medical director of many road races in San Diego and was race director of the Easter Seal Race for five years. He was also part of the medical team for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials. He will be posthumously awarded the President's Award at the United in Wellness Gala in conjunction with Project Access for his work with low-income communities.
A competitive hurdler in high school and swimmer in college, Dr. Backman took up long-distance running in 1980. He ran over 190 marathons and almost a dozen triathlons. Additionally, he completed 37 Los Angeles Marathons since the race's inception in 1986, every Honolulu Marathon since 1982, five Boston Marathons, and various marathons across six of the seven continents. His passion for running led to his establishment of the Pony Espresso Running Club, which he actively led until his passing.
A dedicated physician, Dr. Backman refused to entertain the notion of retirement. He continued to see patients at his Encinitas practice up until his passing. When he wasn't running or seeing patients, Dr. Backman was an avid patron and collector of the arts in all of its forms, including literature, opera, the theater, paintings, and sculptures.
Dr. Backman was laid to rest on April 3, 2025, in the El Camino Memorial Park.
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Valerie Webster
June 26, 2025
I use to work for scripps and Dr Backman was always so kind and sweet to me we would talk about the plays or movies he would go see and talk about running. He finally got me out running with him and would always be so impressed with my run which I always thought was cool since he was this huge marathon runner. He not only was kind but always took the time to say hi and talk. I´m very sad to hear that he has passed and my condolences go out to his family. He will be greatly missed by all.
Kathy Neimiller
June 25, 2025
My heart is truly saddened with the news of Dr Backman´s passing. I unfortunately had to cancel my appointment in March and regret not having the privilege of one more reassuring checkup, goodbye hug, and opportunity to scratch Daisy. My sympathy goes out to all the family as they navigate days without his presence; but I know there must be many wonderful memories that will warm their hearts since he always made his patients feel they had his utmost care and consideration. You will be dearly missed Dr Backman!
Phil Piper
May 27, 2025
Dr Backman was a kind ,wonderful individual. Having first seen him in 1987, he cleared me for a Triathlon in Big Bear. 2025 ,cleared me for back surgery. We had mutual Doctor friends. Such a nice Man . Thank you so very much, Dr. John Backman
John Leone
May 11, 2025
I was saddened to hear of Dr. Backman´s passing. He was the doctor that ultimately diagnosed a heart condition that several others could not figure out. For that I am truly grateful. But more than that he was a kind, compassionate, caring man who was always there for me. In a day where many in the medical field are interested in getting patients in and out, Dr. Backman always spent as much time as needed to do things right and always made me feel more like a friend than just another patient. Condolences to his family and all those that worked with him. He will be missed. RIP Dr. Backman
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Heather Holdorf
May 5, 2025
Dr Backman took care of me for almost 30 years, beginning at the tender age of 22. He saved my life twice. He always made me feel like I was the most important patient he had. And I will miss him very much. I appreciated that he never made me feel like a sick person, but one that could do absolutely anything I wanted. I always expected that one day I would be able to thank him from the bottom of my heart. And I didn´t. I regret it. I will never forget this precious man.
Dale Warren Rasmussen
April 30, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mimo
April 21, 2025
My deepest condolences to family and friends of Dr. Backman, who came into my life when I needed not only a cardiologist, but a wise friendly runner to reassure me that you can still safely be a runner regardless of your diagnosis... He guided me through those first few months of diagnosis and testing, which also led to my half marathon PR (with a baby aspirin on board and another one under my Garmin watch strap, just in case) and my first ever age group title. Anyone who has dealt with heart condition understands that our psychological state is affected and having a calm, wise and knowledgeable cardiologist, like Dr. Backma, by your side is priceless. We mourn a loss of a great physician, but, perhaps even more importantly, a great human being! Again, my deepest condolences to his family!
Donald Manweiler
April 19, 2025
Dr. Backman was a fine gentlemen and extraordinary physician. I will miss his gentle nature and kindness. My condolences to his family, and to Daisy.
Jonathan Fredricks
April 18, 2025
My condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Backman. As a patient, I experienced his wisdom, kindness, compassion, commitment and humor. He is "one of a kind" and will be sorely missed. I hope that you know that my appreciation for him is merely one of thousands of lives he touched for the better. Godspeed Dr. Backman ! Jon Fredricks
Eve Ducati
April 18, 2025
I first met Dr Backman in the 80´s he helped me through a very trying and confusing time.. with the best advise from any Dr at the time.. very sad and shocked to hear this.. Condolences to his family and many friends
Haynes L. Kendall Jr.
April 18, 2025
I am just devastated to learn of the passing of my friend and cardiologist Dr. John Backman. The marathon maniac (the name of the club he was a part of )had a certain charm and charisma that made him so unique field.
The old truism about" patients don´t care how much you know until they know how much you care " Definitely applied to him. I considered him a friend and trusted advisor, as well as being a very competent physician.
Haynes Kendall
Jef G
April 17, 2025
No words can adequately describe the depth of my gratitude for Dr. Backman or the profound and unexpected loss felt by those who had the privilege of knowing him. I'm deeply thankful for the opportunity to have spent the past 15+ years getting to know both Dr. Backman and his trusty sidekick Daisy, and I will always cherish his honest straight forward opinions and shared wisdom.
Andrea Testa
April 17, 2025
I am so very saddened at the passing of Dr Backman. He was a lovely person whom helped me tremendously. He was a pleasure. Sending my best to his loved ones. He will be dearly missed. Andrea Testa
Rich Qualls
April 17, 2025
I´m in total shock at Dr. Backman´s passing. I loved him; he was an inspiration to me. I am so saddened-I extend my condolences to his family. We had some deep intellectual conversations and I loved his enthusiasm for tech. I will miss seeing Daisy during my appointments.
Paukl Carlomagno
April 16, 2025
Doctor John R Backman helped me through some difficult times. He prepared me for racing mountain bikes as an expert in my age group: 55-59. He will always shine as a pillar to our community. I will miss him deeply. Paul Carlomagno
Claire Knox
April 16, 2025
Just received notice of Dr. Backman´s passing. I am truly devastated and feel the loss deeply. My twice yearly visits with him and adorable Daisy were something I looked forward to for many years. He was from Scarsdale and I was close by in Bronxville so we had so much in common. RIP to a wonderful person.
Sandra Munoz
April 15, 2025
I cried! Dr. Backman has been my cardiologist for over 20 years. I looked forward to seeing him on my bi-yearly visits. We always talked about running OR about knee pain! He was always so positive and reassuring. I always left the office so happy to have seen him. I will miss him dearly. Rest in Paradise, Dr. Backman
Bob Tay
April 15, 2025
For many, Dr. Backman was more than a doctor-he was a trusted advisor, a kind listener, and a source of comfort in times of need. His commitment to healing and his genuine concern for the well-being of his patients left a lasting impact on countless lives including our family's.
He will be remembered not only for his medical expertise but for his warm smile, gentle manner, and the kindness he extended to all who crossed his path.
May God bless his soul.
Tay & Shirazi Family
Rick Bickford
April 15, 2025
So sad to here of Dr Backman's passing. A patient of 18 years, he was not only a great doctor, but a wonderful human being. He always had a smile and a story to share. He was an inspiration for me to take better care of myself. He made a difference in my health and my life. I always told him
" who needs a primary care doctor when I have you" he would laugh. He will be missed. I' m sending love and prayers to the family. God bless.
Samantha Marlowe
April 15, 2025
My mother was a patient of Dr. Backman until she died in 2017. She loved him and felt very lucky to have him as her cardiologist. I used to take her to all of her visits, and I loved him, too! He was a thorough, highly intelligent, caring, talented doctor. My husband is a current patient of Dr. Backman. Sadly, he actually has an upcoming appointment scheduled with him. We just got a letter from his office today, and we are shocked and full of sorrow to hear of his passing! May he rest in peace.
LAWRENCE EISENHAUER MD
April 15, 2025
I practice alongside John Bachman for both of our careers at SCRIPPS Encinitas, although in different specialties. We shared good times and bad times of the advancement of medicine and I enjoyed his information a great deal. He was a good companion and pier. I will miss him. LAWRENCE Eisenhauer MD.
Margaret Jennings
April 15, 2025
Dr. Backman was my cardiologist for over twenty years. He saw me through my heart conditions with skillful management of medications. But more than that he became a friend. He shared pictures of his art collections and always took time during my visits to ask and listen to how my life was going. He and Daisy were a welcome pair in the exam room. No "white coat hypertension" for me, and best of all, a hug to say goodbye.
Dr. Barry Bluestein!
April 15, 2025
I am shocked and saddened at the notification of the passing of Dr Backman. As a long time patient (20 years) I would look forward to our twice a year appointment with Dr Backman and his sweet four legged assistant Daisy. May he rest in peace. I will miss him We had alot in common from family background, profession, and love of animals. May he rest in peace.
Sharon Anderson
April 14, 2025
I was so surprised and saddened to learn of Dr. Backman´s passing. He has been my doctor for over 10 years and I will miss him. Knowing I, too, came from NY, he recited Ogden Nash´s NY poem during our first visit. This memory makes me smile. Rest In Peace Dr. B!!
Sharon Anderson
Gail Ryan
April 14, 2025
I´m in shock! I am so sorry!! I hope he didn´t have to suffer!! I just saw him in February!! My deepest condolences to his Family!! I always appreciated his insights and helpful advice!! Again, I´m so sorry!! We lost one of the Really "good ones!!"
Michelle Weaver
April 14, 2025
I am still in shock. Dr Backman was so caring and took great care of me. You are gone too soon. See you on the other side.
Michelle Weaver
Barbara Nitzberg Greebel
April 14, 2025
Hello to my Scarsdale friend´s family, Your Dad and Grandfather was a wonderful person. He was extremely friendly and always had a broad smile. My husband and I enjoyed his company at our last reunion in June and we were looking forward to seeing him at the LA Olympics in 2028. You are now running your marathon in heaven. XOXO
Dr. Mike Myers
April 13, 2025
Rest in peace John. Thank you for saving my life...twice. I love you man.
Rachele Pease
April 13, 2025
Dr. Backman has always been such a kind and caring person. He always made me feel welcomed into his office. He made you feel like family . I was always impressed with all his marathon medals and made me honored to be his patient. He was such an inspiration to me. He will be sorely missed. Much love to his family, Rachele
Cyd Shaw
April 12, 2025
Dr. Backman has taken care of my Father, Sid Shaw, my mother LaVerne Shaw and myself Cyd Shaw over many years. He and his running group of friends met in front of Surf Cleaners in downtown Encinitas to go running. We had many wonderful conversations about the "good old days". May you rest in peace my friend.
Michael Urbano
April 9, 2025
Robin Reid Anderson
April 8, 2025
As a patient of Dr. Backman, I am so saddened at the news of his passing. He was a very attentive, kind and caring doctor, and always had time to talk to me. I will miss him and Daisy in the office. My condolences to his family.
Pastor Bill Harman
April 8, 2025
Dr Backman has been my cardiologist for the past 43 years. My appointments with him were always filled with his expertise, sharing of beliefs & stories, petting his dog and feeling well cared for as a patient. I will miss him as my doctor and as a person whom I would meet in the swimming pool at the gym or previously in Scripps hospital when he was more active or on the streets of Encinitas at Halloween where he never failed to dress for the holiday and enjoy the street crowd. May his memory be blessed as he gave so much expertise to me and so many others over the years. God has blessed Dr. Backman for his fun personality and creative approach to being a cardiologist. Pastor Bill Harman, Encinitas
Kevin McNamara
April 8, 2025
Dr Bachman was my cardiologist for years.... Incredible Dr as well as a runner and very pleasant man....Will miss our appointments /talks.....
John simone
April 7, 2025
DR. Backman was my doctor for 25 years. I always looked forward to my visits with him. I will miss him very much. God Bless John Backman.
American Heart Association
April 4, 2025
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Scott Fagergren
April 3, 2025
John has been my Cardiologist for 35 years, ever since he admitted me into Scripps Encinitas ER in 1988 at age 44 with my Heart attack. We were the same age and through the many years he was my primary guide to my health and well being. His care and friendship will always be remembered not only by me, but I am sure by all his many patients. We have all lost a dear friend and mentor. I offer my sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time and can only thank them all for sharing John with us patients and friends. I will sorely miss John, his welcome smile, and his many stories about current events and especially his dear family and sporting events.
Sincerely, Scott Fagergren
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