Theresa Ann M. Backlin

MANSFIELD, OHIO - Theresa "Ann" M. Backlin, age 94, of Mansfield, Ohio and formerly of Portland, Maine, passed away March 17, 2014. Theresa was born December 28, 1919 in Houlton, Maine. Those who knew Theresa (Fortier) Bowen Backlin referred to her as "Ann." After becoming Mrs. Bert Backlin she lived 30 years in Canada before moving back to the states after the death of her husband in 2009. The last 3 years, Theresa has resided in Mansfield, Ohio. She was always considered a great cook and loved cooking for her family and friends. Growing plants was another great interest of hers, and what a green thumb she had! She had a great love for reading from a very young age. As a child she could be found reading a book under the dining room table, and as a ninety-four year old she was often in her wing back chair reading a large print book. Cats and dogs had a special place in her heart as well as her home. Most recently, it was Oreo who filled her days with unconditional love. She spent a considerable amount of time each day praying for people around the world. In her final days, she prayed for her family and her beloved dog companion, Oreo, that the Lord would give them all peace upon her passing. Her family knew that they could depend on her to be their prayer warrior. Ann was a member and pillar at the Christian Missionary Alliance Church in North Deering. She was very involved with the choir, taught Sunday school, planned and led Vacation Bible School every summer as well as Christmas and Easter programs. Ann did it all for the love of Jesus and serving him. Though her family is large, she made them all feel special. Ann never forgot a birthday or anniversary of her family members. She is survived by three daughters; Linda Bowen Hartzfeld of Mansfield, Ohio, Beatrice Bowen Darling of South Portland and Mary-Lyn Bowen Wilson of New Gloucester; a brother, Earl Fortier of West Virginia and a sister, Alice Libby of Florida; nieces and nephews; and 15 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband Raymond Edward Bowen and her second husband Bertil Backlin, a son, Raymond E. Bowen, Jr. and ten brothers and sisters. A memorial service will be held in June. Arrangements by Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland, Maine.Online condolences may be expressed below.