Brian Backlund, who was 65 years old, was born February 4, 1957 to Arthur and Arvilla Backlund in Callicoon, NY.  He is survived by wife, Anne Backlund, son Jeremy and daughter Tara. 

He is also survived by Jeremy’s wife, Stephanie, and two children, Blake and Clare; and Tara’s partner, Richard Traviss.  He is also survived by sister Greta Schwesinger, brother Randy Backlund, and he was predeceased by his brother, Keith Backlund.  He leaves behind many, many nieces and nephews.

He was a resident of 4092 River Road Equinunk, PA – The Soaring Eagle Campgrounds – and the homestead where he was raised and lived for a collective of 40 years. He left his parents’ house as a young trade school mechanic, thirsty for adventure, to explore the world and create a life with his new wife Anne.  He traveled west to explore the possibilities and expand his knowledge and horizons, though ever the loyal son he was to return from his travels after a few short years to help and support his parents and in-laws as they aged.  This sense of honor would be applied to his every decision in life.  It was woven into his callings and passions, first as an independent mechanic serving the community for a decade and later as the leader of the campground which he established by 3 generations of Backlund's in the year 1995. Soaring Eagle Campgrounds Inc. was conceived beside his wife Anne, his elderly parents, and his children; partnering to create a business that was a dream held by the family for over 20 years before it was actualized by the efforts and talents he possessed.

The success of the campgrounds was a singular focus for Brian until his last breath. His legacy is alive and strong in the family.  His knowledge, genius, undeniable charisma, wild sense of humor, deep internal strength, creative drive, and leadership shaped the business and the land. With a team of family to work beside him, he was at the center of a great mission. I can say with certainty his willful determination was the guiding force of all the success found by all that worked with, for, and beside him. His wisdom lay not only in his visionary analytical ability but in his discernment, sensitivity, and ability to make everyone laugh.  

His wife Anne is and was a balancing, kind, and willful force that complimented, and reflected the values they cultivated in their life together, family and business.

He will be greatly missed.  Every step our family takes without him will be in honor of his memory, with deep gratitude for his sacrifices and love.

Brian was loved and respected by all that knew him. Always kind and ready to lend a helping hand to his neighbors and friends with all his talents. 

"Strength - It is easy to slink away from tough situations, but it takes real strength to surmount one's obstacles and press on. It is possible to be indomitable. By being resolute through difficult times and sustaining a strong impenetrable core you can forge on indefinitely, constantly renewing your horizons. Do not be afraid. Fear is the mind-killer. You need only to believe yourself unconquerable for it to be so."

He conquered many of his fears and he certainly was not afraid of death in all its unknowns.  May the next phase whatever that be, be as grand and as glorious as his presence was here.

He was a loving brother, friend and father figure to more people than can be mentioned. He will be missed by many.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Stewart-Murphy Funeral Home in Callicoon to leave a condolence or for further information please visit stewartmurphyfh.com 845-887-4900.