Esther M. Backstrand

Esther M. Backstrand passed away quietly on November 17, 2015 at the age of 104. The daughter of John and Dena Turnquist, Esther was born outside of Aberdeen, Washington on July 19, 1911. She grew up in Aberdeen and was a member of the Covenant Church there. She attended Weatherwax High School and a local business college before joining her father to run a branch office of AA Star Transfer Company in Tacoma. Later she managed the office for the Blue Mountain Logging Company. In 1939 Esther married Dr. S. Edward Backstrand of Portland, Oregon. They lived in Portland the remainder of their lives where they were active in both the First Covenant and West Hills Covenant churches. Esther was preceded in death by her husband, her sister Ellen Claus and her brother Ernest Turnquist. She is survived by her son, The Rev. Brian (Marilee) Backstrand of Mineral Point Wisconsin; by three grandchildren--Brenna (Paul Dirkswager) Backstrand, Sean Backstrand and Jennifer (Dale) Freitag along with five great-grandchildren. Esther is remembered especially for her gracious spirit, her positive outlook, and her deep faith. She was keenly interested in all of the lives of her family and extended family and was always proud of them. A memorial service will be held for her in the Terrace Auditorium, the auditorium of The Willamette View Terrace, 12705 SE River Road, Milwaukie, Oregon 97222 on Saturday December 12th at 1 p.m. The family asks that memorials be directed to Providence Hospice. Let light perpetual shine upon her.