WORCESTER-James A. Backstrom, Sr., 83 formerly of 5 Gould Hill Road, died Friday, October 17th at the Radius Health Care Center, Worcester. He leaves his wife of 59 years Barbara (Sottak) Backstrom, 2 sons and their wives James A., Jr. and Deborah (Seeley) Backstrom of Cherry Valley and Peter and Linda (Maniero) Backstrom of Worcester, a daughter Diane wife of Howard Capen of Worcester, 8 grandchildren, Matthew and Amanda Capen, Jeffrey, Jennifer and David Backstrom; and Erica, Kyle and Joshua Backstrom; nephews and nieces. 3 brothers, Nils, Oke and Gunnar Backstrom predeceased him.
He was born in Worcester the son of Gustaf and Augusta (Karlson) Backstrom. He graduated from Lowell High School, and was a World War 2 Marine Corps veteran, serving in the Pacific theater. Mr. Backstrom worked as a wire tester for Thompson Steel and Wire for 35 years, retiring in 1981. He was a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church, and once served as a trustee and as a choir member of the Cherry Valley Methodist Church. Mr. Backstrom had been a member of the AFL-CIO; coached Ty Cobb Little League, and enjoyed bowling, golf and was an excellent swimmer.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 25th at 1:00 PM in Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1048 Main Street. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Memorial Fund of the Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1048 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01603 or to the Activity Fund of Radius Extended Care Center, 119 Providence Street, Worcester, MA 01604. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is directing arrangements.