Brian Thomas Backman, a resident of New Bern, died October 8, 2018. Brian was born in Corona, CA. He graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1978 with a degree in Horticulture. He owned his own landscaping company for many years before returning to college to earn his BSN degree. Brian worked for 25 years at CarolinaEast Healthcare System with the Oncology Unit and later transferring to the Clinical Decision and Observation Unit. He was a dedicated nurse who spent his career caring for others.

On December 28, 2017, he married his high school sweetheart, Rosemarie Waddell Amos, the love of his life. Brian was a loving husband, son, brother, and uncle. He enjoyed hiking, tent camping, backpacking and traveling along with cycling, and kayaking. Brian was an avid reader who spent time reading with his beloved cat Gracie by his side.

His quick wit and sense of humor never waivered. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and every life that he touched. Brian is survived by his beloved wife Rosemarie Waddell Amos, parents Richard “Pete” and Dixie Backman, his sister Sheryl Adams (Jack), his brother Douglas Backman (Winnie), his sister Wendy Governale (Joe), nieces Summer Dudley and Emma Pruss, nephews Elliott Tosto, Matthew and Ryan Governale, two stepsons Brandon and Jason Amos and many cherished friends.

The colors of nature particularly inspired Brian. Therefore, the family requests everyone wear bright colors to the celebration of his life that took place on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 2 p.m. at Cotten Funeral Home, New Bern, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Colonial Capital Humane Society, New Bern, NC, American Cancer Society or American Heart Association.

We love you, Brian.

Online condolences may be made to the Backman Family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com.