Crystal Gayl Backman

Crystal Backman was born on March 11,1981 at the Chilliwack hospital to Laurie and Wayne Backman, a brand-new little sister for Tara. She was named after the country singer Crystal Gayl. Laurie said she loved Crystal Gayl and Lorretta Lynn; Tara’s middle name is Lynn so it would only follow that Crystal be named after Loretta’s sister. Crystal was loved immensely by her parents.

Tara acknowledges that Crystal was the sweetest little girl. Tara recalls that her friend Beth and cousin Julie used to call her “Pooh Bear” for the fact that she was just so cute, like a little teddy Bear. Although Crystal was Tara’s little sister, Tara realized that Crystal was more like a big sister to her. Tara would call Crystal “lil big sis”. Tara loved Crystal beyond words.

Crystal was a “Jane” of all trades. She would do anything for anyone. Crystal was always helping people around Soowahlie, Cultus Lake and Agassiz. She enjoyed helping others and was there for anybody in need of assistance. She had a heart of gold, and everyone knew it. We can’t say enough about her beautiful smile. With it, she could light up a room. She could make someone feel better just by seeing that smile.

Crystal received training through the Sto:lo Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Program where she participated in the Culinary Arts as well as the Landscaping program. She loved yardwork and would use her acquired skills in her own yard as well as others.

In 2005, Crystal went to the Yukon with her cousin Sheila. She was amazed by the beauty of it, and the friendly people that she met there. Her auntie Markie as well as a few cousins made sure she got to see the sites and all the beauty that the Yukon has to offer.

When Soowahlie took on a pilot project to raise chickens, it was Crystal that took on the role of caretaker. She excelled at caring for the chickens. When the truck came to process them, there was one that was just too chubby to be processed so she kept it as her own.

When Crystal was the receptionist at Soowahlie in 2007, she was the one who suggested to Brenda that she apply for the Band Manager position. Brenda applied and has been in that position ever since. Crystal liked to remind Brenda of this from time to time.

Crystal loved her boys Devin, Raven and Wayne as well as her daughter Sage so very much. She was so proud that the boys are learning their cultural ways and are involved in drumming, singing and canoe pulling. The following are quotes from two of her boys:

From Devin: I love you mom; you were my best friend growing up. We were so close; I enjoyed every minute I spent with you. I wish I was able to spend more time with you. I love you mom forever and always. -Devin

From Little Wayne: I love you mom, forever and always. Mom4L (for life)

-Little Wayne

Crystal was a big sister to the younger generation. She made sure that they were okay, and she provided a safe place and a shoulder if it was needed. Crystal was an advocate for the underdog and was there to protect and support them. She had great respect for her elders and treated them with a kind heart.

Crystal was strong and humble and had the most beautiful soul. She will be missed dearly by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Rest in sweet paradise.

A visitation for Crystal will be held Monday, September 18, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Funeral Home, 45865 Hocking Ave, Chilliwack, BC V2P1B5. A prayer service will occur Monday, September 18, 2023 at 7:00 PM at Tzeachten Longhouse, 46520 Roberts Place, Chilliwack, BC V2R0M2. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Tzeachten Longhouse, 46520 Roberts Place, Chilliwack, BC V2R0M2. A graveside service will occur Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 11:30 AM at Soowahlie Cemetery, Sweltzer Creek Road, Chilliwack, BC V2R0M2.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.woodlawn-mtcheam.ca for the Backman family.