Mary Georgine Backstrom

Mary Georgine Backstrom, of Fairfield, passed away quietly, on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at her home in Fairfield.

She was born Mary Georgine Cook on June 20, 1922 at Granite Falls, Washington, daughter of George Arthur Cook and Edna Elsie Johnson. She attended schools there.

She proudly served her country during World War II, in the US Navy.

Mary married Paul Backstrom on August 1, 1944, and they established their home at Lake Stevens, Washington, where they lived for 40 years. Son Jeffrey was born in 1950.

After retiring as a manager for GTE Corporation in 1980, Mary and Paul enjoyed Arizona winters, grandchildren, and travel. Mary became so enamored with travel that she visited all seven continents.

Volunteering was an important part of Mary’s life.  In Fairfield, she was the secretary for Habitat for Humanity for several years. Her volunteer service included knitting for charitable causes. Mary also served as a blood donor ambassador at blood drives in both Washington State and Iowa for 4 decades. She herself was a regular donor.

Paul Backstrom preceded Mary in death in 1986.

She is survived by son Jeffrey Backstrom and daughter-in-law Cielle Cindy Backstrom of Fairfield, two grandchildren, Lars Backstrom of Redwood City, CA, and Elsa Backstrom of Santa Fe, NM, and three grandchildren.

A private Celebration of Life service will take place on Tuesday, November 10, at 11 am CST, by the First Lutheran Church of Fairfield. The service may be attended online on Facebook    https://www.facebook.com/FirstlutheranchurchFairfield

A recording of the service will remain on the church's Facebook page for viewing in the future.

Memorials may be made to Greater Fairfield Habitat for Humanity or First Lutheran Church in Fairfield.