Adeline Borghild Backsen

Adeline B. Backsen, 96, Mandan, passed away May 21, 2016, at Sanford Health, Bismarck. Burial will be at Peace Church Cemetery, New Salem.

Adeline was born Aug. 29, 1919, along with her twin sister, Evangeline, at Almont, to Tobias and Olevine (Christiansen) Olson. She graduated from Almont High School, and earned a teacher’s certificate from Dickinson State College.

On June 11, 1943, she married William Backsen in Glendive, Mont. They farmed and ranched in the New Salem area, before moving into a new home in 1975. At that time, she became the activity director at Elm Crest Manor Nursing Home. She enjoyed working with the residents. Her favorite activities were devotions, sing-a-longs and rhythm band. She always said, “music is the best therapy.”

Adeline taught herself to play the piano and enjoyed it very much. She also enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing bridge, quilting and dabbling in art. She loved to paint scenic and floral pictures. She was a member of Peace Church, Women’s Guild, Pioneer Club, Bridge Club and the American Legion Auxiliary. She also volunteered at Elm Crest Manor — usually playing the piano for church services.

She is survived by one daughter, Shelley Backsen, Mandan, who was her very special friend; three sons, Toby (Patty) Backsen and Jerris Backsen, both of New Salem, and James (Judy) Backsen, Lake Ozark, Mo.; one sister, Winona McCoy, Glen Allen, Va.; one sister-in-law, Louise Olson, Bismarck; eight grandchildren, Billie (Curt) Leingang, Jamie (Travis) Hande, Dusty (Mindy) Backsen, Bridget (Nathan) Gerhardt, Sydney Backsen (Mitch Swede), Ashley Backsen, Chad (Whitney) Backsen, Brook (David) Hopper and Jared (Noni) Mason; and 10 great-grandchildren, Connor Leingang, Jorga Hande, Cauy Kling, Kinley and Crue Backsen, Ava and Mya Backsen, Django, Geivan and Nicodemus Mason and Brody and Cali Gerhardt.

Adeline was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William; 10 sisters; and three brothers.