“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.
52 Responses
A life well lived indeed. Our love and condolences Kathleen.
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.
Farewell Richard, mentor, fellow cyclist and musician and friend. You are missed.
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.
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.
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
We always enjoyed meeting up with Richard on our neighborhood walks
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.
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.
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.