“I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship, and a star to steer her by…”
-John Masefield
Richard Backus MD MCFP (SEM) Dip SEM
Adjunct Assistant Professor, Dept. of Graduate Studies, UVic
Clinical Assistant Professor, UBC
Richard David Hughes Backus passed away September 4, 2025, in Victoria, BC. Predeceased by his parents, Winston and Valmai Backus, Richard is survived by his wife and best friend, Kathleen, and their treasured children: David, his beamish boy (Geneviève) and their children, Rhys, Hawksley, and Leila; Matt, his stalwart cycling sidekick (Erin); and Robyn, his double black diamond buddy (Abdel). Joanie, (another Dr. Backus in the family,) has remained his life-long friend. Richard’s siblings, Elizabeth Cook (Darcy), Robert Backus (Nicole), and David Brodie (Megan) have memories of adventures with their brother. His nephews and nieces and cousins added to the richness of his life, and Myrtle Backus, his stepmother, will remember Richard for his kindness.
Richard had many passions, and for 45 years he devoted himself to his medical practice, first in emergency services, then as a general practitioner, and later in sports medicine, becoming a founding owner of both Summit Rehabilitation and ReBalance MD. He loved medicine, he revered his colleagues, he taught university students, and he mentored residents. Above all, he cared deeply for his patients. Solving problems and enhancing their quality of life were his priorities; prescribing exercise as the best medicine in his toolbox was his trademark, because it worked. Everywhere he went, students, colleagues, and patients would stop him to speak passionately of his impact on their personal journeys.
Music, the double bass, mountaineering, skiing, hiking, running, rowing, birding, poetry, James Joyce, art, his Saturna Island hide-away and, of course, cycling were many of his peripheral passions. The great outdoors was his playground, where he found beauty, exhilaration, and a sacred serenity. Despite later setbacks, he remained happiest while walking by the sea.
In addition to his love of recreational activities, Richard was always involved in community service. The Olympics, World Championships, and the Commonwealth Games were significant contributions in his career, but his commitment to Bike to Work BC was no less prestigious. He was making a difference for anyone who was game.
Our gratitude and thanks are endless to all Richard’s skilled and compassionate caregivers. A celebration of Richard’s life will take place in the future and, in lieu of flowers, please choose to champion a cause close to your heart.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Backus/Silver” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Andy Jarema {UofA:Class of '72}
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Louise Walker My sincere condolences to Kathleen and your family. Given my location in the East, the news of Richard’s passing has just reached me via CASEM. What a loss and many are mourning with you. I will miss his humour, wonderful smile, energy and kindness. I knew Richard through CASEM and he gave so much of his time and knowledge to sport medicine in Canada and more broadly. But it was clear that his family was always his priority. I will be forever grateful for the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, dear friend.
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Hon. Dennis Patterson Hearing of Richard’s passing, I am drawn back to our years of friendship when we were in high school together in Grande Prairie, Alberta, where his parents were leaders in our then small community. Richard and I were good friends and academic rivals and we had memorable adventures together. A 50 mile walk as part of an epic journey to Kinuseo Falls, and being evacuated by the Red Cross when the river rose torrentially and impasssbly and then our return to drive to retrieve a vehicle donated by the local GM dealer. High drama when the vehicle flipped onto its roof on a curve and how we managed to flip it back on its wheels and complete the journey back to Grande Prairie. Speaking of cars, Richard and I immensely enjoyed driving about in his British racing green MG…! At our Grade XII graduation, Richard and I played a musical number – he on the clarinet and me on the piano.
Then our paths took different directions after our time together at U of A – me down east and to the north and he on a distinguished medical career on the island. I was touched by the glowing tributes to my old friend by his colleagues and friends and family.
Sending condolences to Kathleen and your family.
We were all blessed to have known such a fine man.
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Norgrove & Anne Penny Rich was my friend, colleague and partner in all things sports medicine since our arrival in Victoria in 1978. He was loved by his patients and his colleagues and epitomized a wise, caring and gentle physician. His contribution to our community was enormous, particularly in all the people he trained and who now carry on his work. We will celebrate his life on October 17 at UVic Faculty Club. A life well lived. For Kathleen and all the family, our condolences as you move forward. Lots of Love.
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Meghan Newcombe Dr. Richard Backus was an incredible mentor to those of us lucky enough to do a rotation with him as a resident in Victoria in the 2000s. His passion for his work was infectious and I regularly pass on the stretches he imparted for certain MSK maladies to my patients. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him and send sincere condolences to his family. Such a legacy!
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Denise Avard Eef Harmsen Richard was a real friend. Thinking of him brings me down memory lane including thoughts about our Cambridge days at the Cavendish Laboratory with our many fun and highly stimulating discussions. Back again in Canada, we maintained contact whether from Calgary, Ottawa or Montreal, because distance means little between friends.
Richard, you were an eclectic person with a passion for classical music, sports, evidence-based medicine, gardening, social policies and always interested in trying new things. Not least was your great hospitality, including generously offering us your car to visit Yellow Point Lodge to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Kathleen you are an integral part of all this. We will miss you Richard.
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Denise Avard, Eef Harmsen Richard was a real friend. Thinking of him brings me down memory lane including thoughts about our Cambridge days at the Cavendish Laboratory with our many fun and highly stimulating discussions. Back again in Canada, we maintained contact, whether from Calgary, Ottawa or Montreal, because distance means little between friends.
Richard, you were an eclectic person with a passion for classical music, sports, evidence-based medicine, gardening, social policies and always interested in trying new things. Not least was your great hospitality, including generously offering us your car to visit Yellow Point Lodge to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Kathleen you are an integral part of all this. We will miss you Richard.
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Veronica Planella I am deeply saddened by this news.
I knew Richard’s health had been declining, yet he continued to celebrate life and persevere with daily efforts—walking every day with his wonderful Kathleen along Willows Beach, where I would often see them. He always carried a calm and insightful presence.Richard was instrumental in developing PacificSport’s athlete and coach services, which in time evolved into the Canadian Institute of Sport Pacific. In particular, he orchestrated the alignment of sport science and medicine with training schedules, guided by a clear vision of optimal health and performance strategies. I was honoured to be mentored by him and to work closely alongside him over many years—first reviewing Dr. Wenger’s valuable proposal for sport science services, including strength and conditioning, physiology, psychology, and nutrition, and later engaging with coaches’ perspectives and listening to athletes’ needs.
This collaboration led the National Triathlon Centre to embrace Richard’s initiative to integrate a modified athlete education toolkit and medical insurance system. Under his guidance, we began to see real impact. Within a year, “away-from-training time” decreased significantly as athletes learned to care for themselves more effectively and coaches supported the benefits of this integrated approach. The initiative was soon replicated across all PacificSport’s National Sport Centres.
In time, Richard’s work laid the foundation for what coaches and athletes identified as the most important sport science and medicine services at the time. Each national sport centre would include a lead doctor who coordinated all services and maintained a national athlete database—Richard played a key role in linking these files across Canada and between providers. This database became essential for supporting athletes who moved or trained in different provinces. Athletes also gained access to physiotherapists and physiologists responsible for testing, monitoring, and collaborating within the medical team. Over the years, additional services such as nutrition, biomechanics and psychology were integrated into the sport science and medicine programs available to athletes and coaches.
Richard continued to work closely with rowing, leading regular meetings between sport science, medicine, coaches, and athletes. He was a true professional—dedicated to serving the sporting community and advancing academic programs.
I remember him riding his bike to the lake, then back downtown to the clinic, and later to UVic.
He played music.
He shared his knowledge and experience generously.
And he always carried a quiet strength—a presence that spoke of integrity, loyalty, and a deep care for his family, the athletes, coaches, and community he served so faithfully.With deepest sympathy and respect to Kathleen and the family.
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Jennifer West It is with deep gratitude and sadness that I honour the life and legacy of Richard, a remarkable mentor, and friend who (along with lovely Kathleen) has left an indelible mark on my life.
Richard was a true guide and sage advisor. His encouragement opened doors I never thought possible and his mentorship shaped my career, creating wonderful opportunities.
I remember the twinkles of mischief in his sparkly eyes, his quick wit, and the joy of sharing a laugh. Those moments of levity and humour reminded me that wisdom and playfulness can live side by side, and that laughter, too, is a gift of healing.
Rest peacefully, Richard.
Thank you for everything you gave us.
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Lee Ann and Pierre Dil Richard was such a warm and witty character. He was so tall, handsome and athletic. Amazing on his bike! He was kind, smart, talented, a fine musician too. He put his many talents to good use to make the world a better place. I first met him when I had a sports injury years ago and then got to know him through my friendship with Kathleen. He was grateful for his family and most of all, his supportive, encouraging, love of his life, Kathleen. Rest in peace Richard. Our sympathy and love to Kathleen and family.
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Margaret Melvin What an amazing and wonderful man! I didn’t know him well, but you have occasion to be his patient a few times and was struck by his pragmatic approach and gentle humor. My heart goes out to you, Kathleen, I know you and your family will miss him terribly.
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David Hopkins Thanks Richard for almost 50 years of friendship and inspiration. Whether it was pioneering a new route in Nepal or the Cascades, or in navigating the vicissitudes of the life of a committed individual, you were always a paragon of strength, reliability and wisdom. There was no ego, just a joy in sharing challenges and aspirations with a kindred spirit. My life is impoverished by your passing.
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Dan Devlin Recognizing Richard’s contributions to so many people and on so many levels is hard to express. He truly was a man of extraordinary talents and character. Many people enjoyed their success to having Richard in their life.
Thoughts and prayers to all Richard’s family.
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Mike Wilkinson Kathleen and all of Richards loving family THANK YOU for sharing such an amazing human with the rest of us. Richard was a mentor and guiding influence for so many of those he touched and guided in life (taught doesnt do justice), especially in Sports Medicine. The world is a far better place thanks to Richard and we are all far richer through his caring, mentoring and friendship. We will miss his love of life, humour, intelligence, gift of caring for any patient, passion and music.
Thank you Richard we can only hope to have a portion of the wonderful impact you made on the world.
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Tony Wakelin Kathleen and family,
I read the obituary for Richard and was struck by all that he achieved and gave to others. Richard was one of the most outstanding individuals I have ever met. He helped me through a few sports injuries that could have been life altering. Richard was an outstanding musician and played with me on several occasions – even though my timing drove him nuts at times. Richard and I enjoyed many a bike ride with others – the best of times. His depth of character, presence and compassion is beyond what can be expressed with words. Richard will be missed by many – deepest condolences to you, your family and those who were close to him.
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Dave and Lisa Maxwell From the beginning of Summit in 1994, Richard was a business partner, a mentor and a friend. He epitomized compassion and providing excellence in Healthcare. He was truly someone we all looked up to and our world was a better place with him it. Our deepest condolences to Kathleen and the family
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Rob Crisp As a relatively new physiotherapist starting out at Summit, I always appreciated Richard’s welcoming face, great sense of humor and willingness to share his expertise. He truly helped to create a team environment where everyone was valued. Cheers to Richard and condolences to Kathleen and the entire Backus clan.
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Derek Hoskin Sorry to read of your loss, Myrtle. May God bless you and your family with peace and comfort as you mourn the loss of Richard.
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Bonnie Laird Dr Backus treated me for a painful knee from cycling. He prescribed exercises and stretches and even came outside to see my bike and measure the angle of my knee to the frame of my bike when I was peddling! What a fantastic Doctor and this was 25 years ago and I still remember how kind and caring he was. A very genuine and compassionate Doctor. My condolences to the family in your loss.
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Lois and Gerry Gass We will always remember the great times spent with you and Richard. Rest in peace our friend – Gerry and Lois Gass
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Mary F. Smith Richard’s presence and contribution in the bass section of the Victoria Chamber Orchestra and his loyalty to the ensemble were noteworthy. He held his finely made instrument with pride and provided a smooth foundation for our music making. His generosity and contribution towards the VCO’s evolution extended well beyond this. He is fondly remembered by his fellow musicians who also read in the bass clef.
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Bryn Thompson So much has been said as to what an exceptional Man Richard was, and now I too add my name to list. Deep gratitude for exemplifying compassion and lightness in places of challenge; sober thoughts when needed; and humanness in moments of possible disconnection. Thanks for the guidance Richard, I certainly wouldn’t be where I am now without your thoughtful reflection. Travel well.
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Maureen Dunkley A lovely memorial to a man who truly made a difference in the lives of so many people. He will be so missed by his family and friends.
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nancy angermeyer Dear Kathleen. What a tandem ride with Richard you have had from start to a very hard finish. Ride on Richard and you too Kathleen. Our thoughts are with you and your family. You are both very much missed on Cliffside.
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KIER MACMILLAN I spent one week with Richard 35 years ago. That one week changed my life more than he might have ever known. The nature of his approach to life, work, play and his very being, left a mark on me that guided me for the rest of my life. I am certain that I am not alone in this. While we had only seldom crossed paths since that time, I have always known where to find him, and I have always looked up to Richard as a role model. I am saddened of his passing. He will be missed by a vast number of people from many walks of life. Best wishes in the journey for his family and all those who knew and loved him.
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Michele & Trevor We loved playing with Richard in the Victoria Chamber Orchestra and Raven Baroque. He was such a talented person who generously shared his life in many directions. Richard will always have a special place in our hearts!
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Ronald Reznick I am so sorry to hear of Richard‘s passing. What an amazing man he was.
Richard was a accomplished physician who was such a wonderful mentor to myself and so many other physicians in the sports medicine world.. He taught us all so well.
Richard always talked about exercise as being so important and I will always remember our conversations.
Richard made many visits to salt Spring Island to give multiple sports medicine lectures to the physicians here which were always so enjoyable and interesting. Usually, after these talks Richard and I would go for a nice run.
I also enjoyed many bike rides with Richard over the years. He was always very kind and respectful, to his colleagues and patients.
I considered Richard a great friend .
My condolences to Kathleen and family.
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Martin Wong Thanks for being part of our Sports Medicine Community. You motivated many of us
Into that aspect of Medicine. Thank you for what you gave us. You will be missed. Rest in peace.
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Mary Clarke My condolences to the Backus family.
You will be missed. RIP Mary Clarke
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Rob Backus Thank you all for these accolades. I remember my brother for our conflicts, and how in the end he would protect me from the bullies in kindergarten. He used to think it was funny to make me laugh just as I was eating peas and drinking milk, and the peas would come out of my nose. However, he was a wonderful clarinet player, and introduced me to the music of the jazz artists of our youth. (ie look up Pee Wee Spitelera on youtube) As we got older ( and wiser) our relationship smoothed into being able to depend on each other without trying to compete. I’ll miss that reliability. Thanks for the great brother he was!
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Bruce MacKay Thank you Richard for the profound impact you had on my life. At work you were a scientist, at play you were an artist. Everything I saw you do was done with humility, humour and grace. Your memory will stay with me the rest of my days. My condolences to the Backus family.
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Joy Coughlin To kathleen and family,
I’m privileged to have known and worked with Richard. I wonderful man, compassionate and inclusive. I still remember his welcoming smile on my first day at Summit. He was the person to go to , door wide open and big ears. I’m very grateful for your support. You will be missed by many. RIP Richard.
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Ron and Maureen Parks A life well lived indeed. Our love and condolences Kathleen.
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Stu Gershman The first doc I called when I arrived in Victoria in 1989. I owe alot of my career to my friend and mentor. He was always there when I needed him, and boy, sometimes I sure needed him. I think of him every day in my medical decision-making as his voice is in my head-“Always be a doctor first”. He touched me deeply and always will.
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Paddy McCluskey Farewell Richard, mentor, fellow cyclist and musician and friend. You are missed.
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Kathleen Rafferty Few people can live with such enthusiasm for their own experiences and at the same time do so much good for others. Wishing you all peace and comfort.
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Colin Landells Richard, you have been my mentor and my friend since we first met. Your commitment, compassion and skill will always remain as an inspiration to me & to all who were privileged to work with and to learn from you.
Thank you.
You are missed.
Be at peace my friend.
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Chris Edwards To Richard family l am sorry for your loss.
l was lucky to have Richard as my doctor while he was in private practice.
We enjoyed talking about sports
Also had many times to see him play his double stand up bass.
Rest in peace Richard
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Jon and Bonnie We always enjoyed meeting up with Richard on our neighborhood walks
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Sue Lott A wonderful and brilliant man. He touched so many. Grateful to have had the privilege to work with him. He was an amazing mentor and teacher. I will remember that time fondly with his love of life and the special gift he was constantly willing to share. Kathleen, sending my love your way.
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Sheree H I was lucky enough to have worked in the same Clinic as Dr. Backus. He was a true gentleman, not just a gifted physician. He always had time for someone with a question. The world has lost a truly wonderful man, healer, co-worker and obviously a vital family member to all his family.
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Milena Gaiga To Kathleen and family,
Sending you all a big hug. Richard not only guided me when I was an athlete, he gave me my first chance at working in injury rehabilitation. I so appreciated his gentle approach, his sense of humour and his heart- warming smile. He was one talented and accomplished person who always had time to chat and have some fun.
Rest in peace Richard.
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Stefan Fletcher He made a big dent in our lives- such a fine physician and mentor – love to his whānau
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Cassandra Backus Beautifully written, thank you. His legacy lives on in all those whom he touched with his generous spirit and humour.
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George What a life lived. He always seemed so calm, cool and collected. A brilliant mind and a fierce cyclist, I always enjoyed my time spent with Matt at his mom and step dad’s place. Cherish the memories.
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Annette Barclay A renaissance man indeed! It was an honour and a privilege to have known him.
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John McCracken Richard was a fantastic medical partner and an amazing friend. His intelligence and humor sparkled. I loved him and I will miss him a lot. I think he’s up there with Monty Python now.
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Carol Halligan Richard was indeed a most amazing, kind, talented, courageous man. He was blessed and grateful for his family and most of all, his supportive, encouraging love of his, life, Kathleen. My condolences and love to his wonderful family.
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Carolyn Neary Richard was an amazing human. The world was a brighter place due to his presence.
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Rosemary He was a passion to all of us. Especially you Kathleen.
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Elizabeth Cook What a beautiful and perfect description of Richard. He leaves a wonderful legacy for us all
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Joan Backus What beautiful words to celebrate a life well lived.
So sorry to learn of Richard’s passing. Tho’ I lost track of Rich, after Med School, {Class of ’72}, I still have vivid memories of our eclectic little group that hung out in the earlier years, debating & cajoling each other, not infrequently with a brew or two in hand; & in those days, perhaps even also a ciggie drooping from the corner of one’s mouth! We were idealists – I’m reminded of a community medicine project that turned into a summer elective, that Richard championed, resulting in six of us being sent separately & exposed to indigenous northern (remote in some cases) communities, reporting back on our experiences & including some basic research! We learned together, partied together, & experienced undergrad life together as a close knit group > that basically shaped who & what we were to become in years to follow! There’s no getting around the camaraderie that resulted in those early years – wonderful to reminisce; but sad under the current circumstances. It is indeed heartening to acknowledge all of the tributes attached, reflecting “a-life-well-lived” & truly portraying an accomplished renaissance man! My condolences to the family & especially to Kathleen ; & somewhat of a lament, that we weren’t able to cross paths in subsequent earlier years to renew old acquaintances & reflect on our journey together! God Bless!