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John M. Backstrom

John Backstrom Obituary

John M. BACKSTROM John Marvin Backstrom, beloved father, grandfather, friend and mentor, was called home to the Lord on July 7th, 2008 at 6:45 PM, at the age of 68, after a brief but brutal fight with small cell cancer. John fought hard - again - but this time there was too much stacked against him. John was a loving, caring and generous man who always expected and hoped for the best in people. His energy, enthusiasm and creativity inspired others. He will be greatly missed. Born to Ralph Victor Backstrom and Marjorie (Gillespie) Backstrom on January 21st 1940 in Biwabik Minnesota. John is survived by his brothers Jim Backstrom and Steve Backstrom; three children - John M. Backstrom, Jr., Jeff R. Backstrom and Jennifer L. (Backstrom) Deeny. John had six beloved grandchildren - John M. Backstrom, III; Patrick J. Deeny; Wesley R. Backstrom; Jessica L. Deeny; Mara S. Backstrom and Joseph T. Deeny. Also very special to John were his nieces and nephews and their children - Amy (Backstrom) Murphy, Sara (Backstrom) Hollands, Ingrid Backstrom, Arne Backstrom, Ralph Backstrom, Will Murphy and Caleb Murphy (for Will and Caleb he was "Grunkle John") John was a successful businessman in Seattle having been a partner in Washington Transit Advertising and most recently, a spin off, Washington Graphics LLC (Formerly Washington Sign Company). If you had asked him "what do you do?" - John would have said "I'm a salesperson" For the last 25 years of his life, John was an active part of the recovery community, as per usual for John, he jumped in with both feet - and his heart. His motivation, inspiration and honesty helped thousands of people turn their lives around. Other than his family, John would have said this was his life's greatest work. John requested that no funeral be held; he has been cremated and his ashes will be interred in all the many places he held dear - Samish Duck Club, Cripple River Camp in Nome, Alaska, Camp Backstrom, etc. A celebration of his life will be held on August 23rd, at 2pm, at the Magnolia Lutheran Church, 2414 31st Ave W, Seattle, WA. If you knew John and would like to help celebrate this wonderful man's life, please feel free to come - John would love to see you! In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be sent in his name to; The John Backstrom House, C/O Seattle's Recovery Support Center, Alfred White, 435 SW 126th St, Seattle, WA 98146, 206.412-2053; or The Virginia Mason Cancer Institute, 1100 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98111 Life Memberships: NRA, Republican Party, Lost Dutchmans Mining Assoc., Washington Prospectors Assoc. and he absolutely loved the United States of America and Rush Limbaugh!

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Seattle Times from Jul. 16 to Jul. 17, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for John Backstrom

Sponsored by John, Jeff and Jenny.

15 Entries

Alfred White

July 10, 2025

Dear Family and Friends of John Backstrom,

On this anniversary of John´s passing, I am moved to share a memory that continues to shape my life and the lives of so many others. Being remembered truly matters, and John´s legacy is one of transformative love, unwavering kindness, and profound impact.

A Mentor, Guide, and Father-Figure
John entered my life during a time of profound vulnerability. I met him while volunteering at Seattle´s Union Gospel Mission, New Vision Faith-Based 9-month inpatient Behavior Modification Treatment Program. I had just emerged from the depths of addiction and incarceration, facing overwhelming odds and the weight of a fractured past. John saw beyond my circumstances-he saw my potential, my worth, and my humanity.

Acts of Unconditional Love
John´s generosity was legendary. I will never forget the evening he stood before the men in our program and announced that he would buy each of us a suit, shoes, socks, ties, shirts, and belts at Nordstrom. For many, including myself, this was the first time we had ever owned something so dignified. John´s gesture was more than material-it was a message: "You matter. You are worthy."

He welcomed me into his home, invited me to AA meetings in Magnolia, and made me feel like family. In every act, he modeled what it means to lead with compassion and to love without condition.

The Power of Presence
John often called me his hero, but the truth is, he was mine. He guided me through the darkest moments, celebrated my victories, and never let me forget that healing and transformation are possible. His belief in me fueled my journey from addiction and adversity to becoming a leader, mentor, and advocate for others.

A Lasting Legacy
Today, as I reflect on my journey-from a foster child and survivor of trauma to a graduate, leader, and founder-I know that I would not be the man I am without the love and support of John Backstrom and his family. His spirit lives on in every life he touched, every act of kindness he inspired, and every story of redemption that echoes through our community.

I am forever humbled, grateful, and full of life because of John´s love. May we all continue to honor his memory by carrying forward his light, his generosity, and his unwavering belief in the power of second chances.

With heartfelt gratitude and love,

Alfred

Alfred White

July 10, 2019

John Backstrom is an Awesome Man, who I met while a resident at Seattle's Union Gospel Missions, Behavior Modification Treatment Program, and John has been in my thoughts on a regular basis since then. All of the John Backstrom's are Great and Poised for Society.. because of "OG" John Backstrom spiritual embrace on Life and those who may have been downtrodden too! He stop by my Home one day after our initial meeting and gave me a brand new laptop and told me it was a present from a Casino...lol...because he knew I was still going to school...well John, I have a Masters today..."Thanks to John Backstrom; Today I am living in the spiritual arms of Gods daily blessing" Because of his introduction to me about the Spiritual Principles of AA.

Julie (Jackson) Frein

August 20, 2008

I am so sorry to hear that John has left us. I had hoped that one day I would get to see him again. It's wonderful to hear he had such a full life in the program and with his family. I would have loved to have celebrated my 25th anniversary with Bill W. with him. I remember "Uncle John" as a sweet, loving man. I also remember many fun family vacations with him, John Jr., Jeff and Jennifer. My prayers are with you all.

Francis Mithoug

August 15, 2008

John's dedication and service to AA is remembered by me and the many hundreds he inspired and helped for more than a quarter century......So long John. Your place in the hereafter is assured..--- Sincerely,

Scott Cleveland

July 22, 2008

The last time I chatted with John, perhaps a few days before the Lord called him home. I was asking John if there was anything I could do outside prayer and he said, "No, do you need any more AA books?" John will always be remembered by his giving spirit and love of man.

Pete Campbell

July 21, 2008

Corky & I first met John when he and Barry came to the Magnolia meeting. It didn't take long for John to become an inspiration to many of us who had been in the program for awhile. I know he was responsible for many years of sobriety to meeting goers. We will Miss you John.
Aloha!
Pete and Corky

Linda George

July 20, 2008

I worked for Washington Transit Advertising in the early 80' for John and Bob. What a Teddy Bear of a man John was. He loved a good cup of coffee, didn't he ? As well as taking life by the tail. Here's to you John. You are one of the greats for sure.

Grady Smith

July 19, 2008

John will be greatly missed. I have watched John give of himself, his time , energy and resources for the good of others. He really cared and his life reflected his compassin and care.

Mauri Oaksmith

July 18, 2008

John was my sponsor in my first incarnation at recovery. He was honest, humerous, engaging, and a bit to the right of Atilla the Hun!! I loved him unconditionally as he provided a balance in my life to my loving but liberal wife! I know John will be missed by many, including me!!

Alfred White

July 18, 2008

I met John at the Seattle's Union Gospel Misson, New Vision Drug Treatment Program where he shared his story. Which changed my whole life, he will always have a special place in my heart. John Backstrom is the "best man" I ever met!

Karen E Christensen

July 18, 2008

Although I had known John in the business world before we both began our recovery, it was in recovery that John became a friend. To see him and spend time with him was always fun and delightful to me. We shared many similar 'before' experiences that create a strong knowing about the importance of recovery. John was a shining star in the recovery community. His energy and love will be missed by many and I look forward to the opportunity to be at his Celebration because I surely know he will be there laughing and crying with us. You were an extraordinaire man John!

Phil Idrissi

July 18, 2008

I met John, like a lot of people, at a church in Magnolia on a cold Friday night in January of 1999. He was loud, boisterous and dare I say, very particular with his instructions regaring the stowing of chairs etc. Over time I got to know him better and came to understand what made him tick. We would "bump" into each other at times it would seem when only his sage wisdom would fix whatever was broken with me at that given moment. I remember how much he looked forward to going up to Alaska every year with his dad to play in the mud looking for gold. He was like a little boy when he would talk about it. He made me laugh...everytime we talked...this was the most precious part for me...the laughter. Blessings to him and to you at this time of sadness and relief.

Kathy Backstrom

July 17, 2008

I met John over 25 years ago when his son brought me home to meet the family. As a shy, quiet and introverted 20 year old girl, I was awestruck by John's warmth, sincere & sweet disposition and his welcoming nature. Over the last 2 1/2 decades, those first impressions were confirmed time and time again. As his son and I journeyed through our lives together, no matter what our or anyone else's particular circumstances were at any time, John never ever judged any of us. His unconditional love and affection have been steadfast. All we had to do to earn his praise and approval was show up. Nothing more was asked, ever. I will miss John deeply and will work hard to carry on the lessons and principles he taught us all. Sincerely,

John Backstrom Jr

July 16, 2008

If anyone needs more information about the Celebration of Life on August 23rd at Magnolia Lutheran Church, feel free to contact me at [email protected] or 206-957-1814. I appreciate all your kind words and thoughts!

Richard Blakley

July 16, 2008

I opened up the local paper today and couldn't believe my eyes. After all John has been through, the cancer finally beat him. Every time I saw him, John had a twinkle in his eye and a good word to say. Always the optimist, John could always find the good in everyone. I hope now he's spreading his good cheer up in heaven. Richard Blakley

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