Michael Backovich, 65, went to be with the angels on February 19, 2017, with his family by his side in Escalon, California. Michael was born on December 28th, 1951 in Vallejo, California. He was raised by his two loving parents, Pete and Kay Backovich, and alongside two siblings, Randy and Diane. While Michael was the youngest of the lot, he always maintained that he was the best looking. Michael attended college at the University of the Pacific, where he played baseball and made lifelong friends. Mike graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies, and a minor in drawing X’s and O’s on white boards.
Shortly after beginning his career as a teacher and coach, Michael met the love of his life. Only 12 days after meeting Teresa Thompson, he proposed to the woman whom he would spend the rest of his life asking to go fishing with him. Teresa never could say no to his beautiful blue eyes. Michael and Teresa raised two sons, Marc and Scott Backovich. Michael taught and coached at Escalon High School for over 30 years. Whether he was coaching basketball, softball, or football, Coach Backo always strived to create great players and even better people. He will forever be remembered for the example he set and the attitude he promoted. He will also surely be remembered by the teams he always beat. Michael is survived by his wife, Teresa, his two sons, Marc and Scott, and his two siblings, Randy and Diane. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, extended family, and many close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that a donation be made to Escalon Sports Boosters at P.O Box 251, Escalon, CA 95320. A service will be held on Monday, March 6th at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church in Escalon, California, with a celebration of life immediately following. We would have had it on a weekend, but Michael wanted to make sure all who attended were able to call in “sick” to work and have a day off.

The Escalon (Calif.) Times
March 1, 2017