Community Mourns the Passing of Beloved Riverton Mayor Phillip Backberg

Punta Gorda, FL, USA - Phillip “Phil” Carl Backberg, who passed away on April 30, 2025, at the age of 87, leaves a legacy that will echo through his family and community. Born on December 26, 1937, in Bartlett Township, he was known for his strong spirit and dedication to both his family and work. Phil graduated from Staples High School and pursued further education at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, setting the foundation for a vigorous career in construction and leadership.

After marrying Myrna “Babe” Dobson on July 5, 1958, in Bartlett Township, Phil became a cornerstone in the construction sector. He worked as a shift foreman and estimator at Lakeland Color Press and later owned and operated Backberg Construction, contributing greatly to the local economy even after his sons took over the business. His dedication extended beyond work; he also served as Mayor for the City of Riverton and was active in the C-I Quarterbacks Club, showcasing his deep commitment to his community.

Community Connections

Phil’s involvement with Crosslake Lutheran Church illustrated his strong faith and dedication to community values. He was well-regarded not only for his professional achievements but also for his ability to forge meaningful connections with others. Sadly, Phil is now reunited with his beloved wife, Babe, and other family members who have passed before him, including his brother Gordon and son-in-law Charles Klippenes.

Phil is survived by his children: Dan and Barb Backberg from Punta Gorda, FL, Laurie and Greg Meller from Riverton, Bruce Backberg of Mission Township, and Brenda Booth from Brainerd. He also leaves behind an impressive legacy with seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, as well as special friendships, such as the one with Karen McGuire from Baxter.

A Celebration of Life

The community will honor Phil’s memory with a Celebration of Life scheduled for July 1, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Crosslake Lutheran Church, preceded by a visitation at 10 a.m. A private burial will take place after the ceremony. This event highlights the traditional approach to honoring deceased loved ones, which remains significant even as funeral practices evolve over time.

The funeral industry, as highlighted by Top Funeral Marketing, is changing rapidly, blending traditional values with modern innovation. Today, there’s a growing trend towards cremation, with rates projected to reach 63.3% by 2025, a substantial jump from 47.9% in 2015. Many families now seek customizable and flexible funeral services, reflecting the personality and interests of the deceased. With options like virtual memorials and personalized ceremonies, families are finding new ways to celebrate lives lived rather than focusing solely on mourning.

As communities gather to remember lives like Phil’s, the blending of tradition and modern practices signifies a shift in how we celebrate loved ones. The increasing popularity of eco-friendly options, themed funerals, and digital tributes shows that while the core of what we do remains the same—honoring those we’ve lost—there’s always something new to consider in this deeply human experience.