Molly Backlund was a teacher to hundreds, a mentor to many and an advocate of education for all children. She passed away on Wednesday afternoon, September 1, 2021 while surrounded by family.
Molly was born in Hurley, Wisconsin to Celestin "Lefty" and Margaret "Peg" Trier, the eleventh of twelve children. She frequently talked about her cherished memories growing up with such a large family: dancing, singing, family gatherings, and celebrations.
After high school she met Dale Backlund, and they married on November 3, 1962 at St. Mary's Church in Hurley, WI. Molly and Dale had three children; two daughters, Sharon (Vance) Kniffin and Carolyn (Pete) Hopkins; and one son, Dale (Stephanie) Backlund.
Molly loved to travel, golf, and spend time with her family. She also loved the holidays and celebrating special occasions with family.
In her mid-thirties, Molly decided to go to college and pursue a degree in education. On her 39th birthday, she graduated from The Ohio State University. She began her teaching career at Blessed Sacrament School in Newark, OH. She taught 7th and 8th grade math and spent much of her time volunteering on school committees and activities. Upon retiring she enjoyed reading, painting, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.
Molly is survived by her sister, Lou Semo; her three children; and her four grandchildren, Bridget Backlund, Rory Hopkins, Halley Backlund and Izabella Backlund. Molly is also remembered by her loving and supportive nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dale Backlund; her six brothers, Francis Trier, John Trier, David Trier, Timothy Trier, Celestin Trier, and Michael Trier; her four sisters, Margaret Ramuta, Flora Pavlovich, Patricia Leinon, and Catherine Caruso.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament with Father Anthony Lonzo, celebrant.
Family and friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at Vensil & Chute Funeral Home, 1850 W. Main Street, Newark,.
The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Campolo and Dr. Charles Botti for providing excellent care for our mom all of these years. The family would also like to thank the ICU and Pallative Care Group at Riverside Methodist Hospital.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Center for New Beginning.