Merton Peter Backlund

Merton “Pete” Backlund, 86, of Woodbury, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, with his family by his side.

Pete was born on August 16, 1939, to Albert and Bernice Backlund in Grasston, MN. He spent his early childhood on the family farm before moving with his mother to St. Paul following his father’s passing. Pete graduated from Wilson High School in 1957, and went on to serve four years in the U.S. Air Force. After his military service, he attended the University of Minnesota, earning an Associate of Arts degree. Upon graduating, Pete began a long, dedicated career at Sperry Univac/Unisys, where he worked as a technical writer and manager until his retirement. As a lifelong learner, Pete completed his Bachelor of Science degree at Northwestern College in business administration in 1996.

In 1965, Pete married the love of his life, Betsy. Together they adopted two children, Mark and Cindy. As his children grew, Pete was deeply involved in their lives, managing their soccer teams and volunteering to write local newspaper articles highlighting youth sports.

Pete was a man of many passions. As a lifelong Ham Radio operator, he connected with people all over the globe, a hobby that eventually led to a trip of a lifetime to South Africa. He and Betsy shared a deep love for travel, most notably celebrating their 1st, 25th, 50th, and 60th anniversaries in Hawaii. In his retirement, Pete combined his love of history and service by volunteering at the Air National Guard, where he helped restore vintage military aircraft. He also had a sharp creative eye, enjoying photography with a special fondness for covered bridges and the Minnesota state flower, the Showy Lady's Slipper.

Above all, Pete adored his six grandchildren: Annika, Audrie, Bryce, Riley, Amelia, and Khadijah. A proud veteran, he never missed an opportunity to attend their school Veterans Day programs.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Bernice; his brother, Richard Backlund (Mary); and his sister, Arlene Holland (John). He is survived and dearly missed by his beloved wife, Betsy; his son, Mark Backlund (Kristin); his daughter, Cindy Backlund; and his six grandchildren.

Service Information: Services will be held at Resurrection Lutheran Church of Woodbury (9925 Bailey Road, Woodbury) on Monday, July 6th, with visitation beginning at 2:00 PM and the funeral service at 3:15 PM.

Pete will be laid to rest on July 7th at Fort Snelling National Cemetery (7601 34th Avenue South, Minneapolis), with a short service commencing at 9:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to these organizations Pete held close to his heart. · The Minnesota Air National Guard Museum · American Heart Association · Alzheimer’s Association