Michael Joseph Backowski

Obituary of Michael Joseph Backowski
The world is short an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. On January 19, 2022, Michael (Mike) Joseph Backowski Sr. passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones in Portland, Oregon. Mike was born on September 14, 1954 in Cleveland, Ohio to Raymond and Jane Backowski. Growing up the youngest of three children, Mike always spoke fondly of his older siblings and his childhood in Ohio. As an adult, he was frequently on the hunt for specialty Polish foods to share with his wife, children and grandchildren, while telling stories of why they were nostalgic to him.
In his twenties, Mike relocated to the Pacific Northwest where he met the love of his life, Felicia. They married in 1983 in Olympia, Washington, and continued to live in Washington with their six children until 1999, before settling in Portland, Oregon. Mike and Felicia were inseparable, other than when Mike traveled for work. Even then, they spoke daily by telephone and maintained their close connection as best friends and soulmates. Mike made Felicia laugh daily, whether purposefully or not.
Mike was often the smartest person in the room without being arrogant. He was the best at trivia, caring and loving, effortlessly hilarious, and always there for anyone in need. He chauffeured his grandchildren around town to their various camps, events, and practices, while chit-chatting over muffins, doughnuts, and a cupholder full of candy corn. He was a master of creating nicknames for everyone he met and an expert in jewelry. Mike was highly organized and preferred to have everything in its place – he even sorted his candies by color, brand, and size.
Mike absolutely loved:
Mike did not like:
Mike is survived by his loving wife, Felicia, and his children Andrew Backowski (& Courtney), Amanda Newman (& Ryan), Nicholas Backowski (& Lauren), Michael Backowski Jr. (& Kathleen), Kristen LaLonde (& Travis), and Desiree Tarpeo. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Willow LaLonde, Amara LaLonde, Kyra Backowski, Sophia LaLonde, Michael Backowski III, Emma Backowski, Rocco Tarpeo, Rosalie Backowski, Daphne Backowski, Ivy Backowski, Miles Newman, and Baby Boy Newman (arriving April, 2022). Mike's siblings, Marilyn Ratusnik and Ron Backowski, survive him as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. His passing has left an enormous hole in his family that will be refilled through gathering, reminiscing, laughing about all the hilarious things Mike said, and eating his favorite foods and candies.
Mike did not want anyone to be sad at his passing and did not want a funeral. He wanted to be at peace and wanted everyone to celebrate his life on his favorite holiday, Independence Day, on the beach, watching fireworks. So, that is what his family will do every year and they will continue to honor his wonderful life every day in between. It was a life well-lived.