Richard C. Backman, 82, of Cathlamet, died November 7, 2018 at the Community Hospice in Longview. He was born on Puget Island on March 31, 1936 to George and Geneva (McCoy) Backman. He was raised in Cathlamet and graduated from Wahkiakum High School in 1955.

In August of 1959 he joined the Army National Guard and was discharged in 1965. He married Roberta Mitchell on March 25, 1961 in Centralia. He and Roberta lived in West Seattle where Dick worked for Boeing for several years. After that he began building homes and duplexes which he did until 2006 when they moved to Cathlamet.

He enjoyed fishing and loved his work. He was a member of River of Life Church in Cathlamet.

Dick is survived by his wife Roberta at home and his children Steven Dill (Debra), Mark Backman, Sally Hudson (Lloyd), Heather Backman and son-in-law Robert Eaton, two brothers Bob (Signe) Backman, Gary (Martha) Backman, nine grandchildren, one great grandchild, two aunts, Bonnie and Betty, many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

A funeral service was held on Friday, November 16 at River of Life Assembly of God with burial at Fernhill Cemetery in Skamokawa. Memorial donations may be made to Community Hospice. Dowling Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.