Obituary of Karl Alfred Backstrand

Karl A Backstrand was born on September 1st, 1937 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was the only child of Karl and Agnes (Johnson) Backstrand. They moved to the family homestead farm in Ortonville, Minnesota. He lost his dad early in life but gained another steady, loving influence when Agnes married John Rieppel. Karl helped his step-dad and uncles on the farm and attended Ortonville High School. He left school with a group of life long friends whose friendship has spanned the years of his life.

Karl made a lasting impression on his future wife, Colleen Backstrand, while roller skating at Sioux Historic Pavilion. They were an energetic, fun-loving couple. He and Colleen were married on January 25, 1958 at the United Methodist Church in Odessa. The couple were blessed with 7 children, Colette, Kevin, Kim, Cara, Kent, Craig and Kelly. They shared 66 years of marriage and were a living example of commitment and devotion, through thick and thin, to their children.

Karl loved his family, the farm, cars, woodworking, music, and Menards among many other hobbies. Over the years he and Colleen raised children, chickens, pigs, cattle, sheep and even a llama. Karl began employment at Ottertail Power Company, first in Ortonville and then moved to the Big Stone City plant. He loved his job as a plant operator, and his coworkers. He retired from Ottertail Power. In retirement he and Colleen enjoyed camping and road trips, after many modifications to the Roadtrek, visiting children, grandchildren and friends.

Karl is survived by his wife, Colleen (Morrison) Backstrand, his children, Colette Backstrand, Kevin (Becky) Backstrand, Kim (Jim) Klancke, Cara (Kevin) Siebigteroth, Kent (Susie) Backstrand, Craig (Amy) Backstrand, Kelly (Brian) Essington; and his grandchildren Luke Backstrand, Cody (Jenny) Backstrand, Matt Oslie, Mike Oslie, Marissa (Chris) Anderson, Lauryn (Ryan) Nelson, Andrew Klancke, Keylen (Meghan) Siebigteroth, Kendra (Brandon) Forister, Melissa (Leon) Lavigne, Lindsey Davis, Alex Davis, Niki (Nick) Braaten and Adam Essington; his beloved great-grandchildren; Lola, Vayda, Fiona, Milo, Owen, Autumn, Helen, Logan, Callista, Sienna, Isabella, Genevieve, and Olivia.

Karl was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on April 14, 2024. He will be remembered for his love of all things sweet, his pride in his Swedish heritage, his love of gadgets, being a snappy dresser, his ability to direct the fixing of all things, his loyalty, and his warmth. He loved country and gospel music, there was always music playing, inside and outside. It wasn’t quiet at the house; it was full of sound and activity and he loved it that way. He loved well and is loved well and will be missed ‘on this side’ of heaven. No immediate service arrangements; they will be planned for a future date.