Robert (Bob) Oscar Backstrom, age 89, passed away Nov. 27, 2018, at Capital Medical Center after a brief illness. He was born Feb. 26, 1929, in Montesano Wash., where he resided his whole life. He graduated from Montesano High School in 1946.

On July 21, 1951, he married Betty Pugh.

Bob worked at Picco Motors from 1947 until 1955, as a Studebaker salesman. In 1955 he purchased Price & Price Insurance and Real Estate, operating that business until he retired in 1985.

Bob and Betty enjoyed traveling, including many years of trips to Maui. They also traveled to Europe, took Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska cruises. They also relished road trips, especially to Reno and Cannon Beach, but their cabin at Lake Nahwatzel was their happy place. Bob was committed to serving his community in many capacities, including serving as an Assistant District Representative for Montesano Little League, Board Member of the Timberland Bank and a term as President of Montesano Chamber of Commerce. He was named Citizen of the Year in 1972. Bob and Betty’s lives always centered around family. Golf with his boys, attending and cheering on all his grandkids at their school events, proudly wearing school sweatshirts to match the child. Bob, Mr. Social, was loved by all and touched so many lives in a positive way. What a legacy he has left us all.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Betty; sons David (Laurel) of Olympia, and Mark (Susan) of Ridgefield, and daughter Lori (Craig) Gabler of Centralia; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held on Dec. 7, 2018, at 11 a.m. at the Wynoochee Cemetery. Following the graveside service, the family will greet friends at a reception at the Montesano Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Montesano Fire Department, American Heart Association or Salvation Army.

To share memories or express condolences visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com. Harrison Family mortuary is honored to assist the family.