“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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
We will always remember the great times spent with you and Richard. Rest in peace our friend – Gerry and Lois Gass
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.
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.