Vernon "Sonny" C. Backlund

Vernon C. “Sonny” Backlund, Jr., 82, Superior, died Saturday, July 3, 2010 in St. Mary’s Hospice in Duluth, MN surrounded by his family. He was born on December 30, 1927 in Superior to Vernon and Astrid (Bergren) Backlund, Sr.

Vern graduated from the former Central High School in 1945. He served in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Alaska. He had been employed as a Lineman for the Superior Water Light and Power Company. Vern was a founding member of the Tri-State Racing Association where he was active for many years serving in a variety of offices. He was also a member of the American Legion, the Superior Men’s Bowling Association where he served as Treasurer and the Superior Moose Lodge #606. Vern was an active outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was also a Green Bay Packer fan and a Milwaukee Brewers fan.

Vern is survived by three daughters, Laura (Garry) Lapenskie, London, Ontario, Canada, Linda (Beryl Bushaw) Backlund, Superior, Rosie (Tom) Kiiski, Superior; one son, Donald (Debra) Backlund, Superior; three step-daughters, Judy (Bob) Raaflaub, Superior, Patricia Dyer, Superior, Shellie (Tim) Johnson, Superior eight grandchildren, Shaun (Jill) Lapenskie, Shannon (Allen) Ash, Angela (Mike) Dodge, Alissa (Franklin) Romero, Kevin (Mandy) Backlund, Joseph Backlund, Jeremy Backlund, Adam Jacobson; six step-grandchildren, Cynthia Myers, Jason and Candince Glaus, Craig, Chris and Carie Dyer; seven great-grandchildren, Jadyn and Gracie Dodge, Norah and Paige Lapenskie, Eric (Lapenskie) Ash, one on the way and Keileigh Cooper Backlund; four step-great-grandchildren; Jaylynn and Cole Glaus and Juellie and Jenna Dyer; two sisters, Marla Ryan, Superior, Diane (Phil) Allison, Fridley, MN; two brothers, Dale Backlund, Superior, Jimmy (Mary) Backlund, Superior; one brother-in-law, Dick Glonek; one sister-in-law, Margie (Bob) Palumbo; longtime special friend, Lois Rookey; several nieces and nephews and his canine companions 2nd Chantz, Sassy and Love Bug. He was preceded in death by his first wife Lorraine, his second wife Joyce; three sisters, Carol Jarzomski, Sandy Greely Patsy Thompson and two brothers, Marvin and Raymond Backlund.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM until the 10:30 AM Memorial Mass in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Churchon Saturday, July 10,2010 with Rev. Fr. James Tobolski, as celebrant. Military Honors will be accorded at the church by Superior Combined Honor Guard. Pallbearers for the service will be Jeremy Backlund, Adam Jacobson, Joe Backlund, Franklin Romero, Mike Dodge, John Rice, Dick Glonek, Duane Anderson and Les Buchanan and Vern’s grandchildren will be recognized as Honorary Pallbearers. Vern's family would like to thank St. Mary's Hospice for their care and compassion during his stay.

Should you like to send a condolence or sign the on line guest book, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.