Donna Jean Backlund

Donna Jean Backlund, beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away on July 15th, 2026. She was 88 years old. She was born on September 06, 1937, in Emery, Utah. She had a troubled young childhood. After being adopted at the age of 6, she was blessed with a loving mother who raised her to be a wonderful woman. When she was older, she was introduced to John Earl Cutchen by a mutual friend. They fell madly in love and were married on May 22, 1955

In November of 1956, they were blessed with their first son David Michael Cutchen. Over the next 7 years, they would have 3 more sons, Matthew Lynn, Mark Andrew and John Mitchell Cutchen. Their happiness was tragically interrupted when, in 1967, her husband, Earl, was killed in a motorcycle accident. Throughout this ordeal, Donna demonstrated extraordinary strength and courage as she devoted herself to raising her boys.

In 1971, Donna married Frank Presho, with whom she worked at Pacific Bell telephone company. They divorced 7 years later but remained friends until Frank’s passing.

In 1981, she found love once again and married Edmond Backlund. Together, they shared 30 wonderful years of marriage. They traveled extensively, creating cherished memories and enjoying a life filled with adventure, laughter, and companionship. In 2005, her son, Matt, passed away after battling Crohn's disease for many years. That loss was a particularly difficult trial. Years later, on November 20th, 2011. Ed passed away. She was devastated and lonely.

After some time, she decided that she hated being alone and started dating again. She met Larry Offe, whom she dated for nearly 15 years. Donna possessed a rare grace and beauty both inside and out. She had an infectious smile and a genuine love for others. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, appreciated and loved.

Donna leaves behind her sons, Mike, his wife Karen, Mark, and Mitch, and his wife Sue, 7 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild, with 2 more on the way. Nothing brought her more joy than being with her family.

Donna’s life is a beautiful reminder that love, faith, resilience, and kindness can overcome life’s deepest sorrows. She had an unwavering faith in her Heavenly Father and his Son, Jesus Christ. I’m sure she is having a wonderful reunion with those who preceded her in death. Donna will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and will remain ever in the hearts of those she left behind.

The family will have a gathering to meet with friends and family just before the service at 10:00 am, and Donna’s celebration of life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 25th, 2026, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on 5269 E Guadalupe Rd. Gilbert, Arizona. 95234.

For those wishing to honor Donna’s memory with a plant or flowers, they may be sent to 1269 N. Renee Ave., Gilbert, Arizona. 85234