Mark J. Backstrom, 73, of Volant, PA and formerly of Russell, PA, died on Friday, March 8, 2024, in New Wilmington, PA. Mark was born October 9, 1950, in Warren, PA, the son of the late Donald L. and Carol Dickinson Backstrom. Mark was a 1969 graduate of Eisenhower High School. He was a U.S. Marine during the Vietnam War. He was employed as a guard at the Mercer State Correctional Facility, from which he retired. Mark was also a member of the Mercer Volunteer Fire Department. Mark was always collecting odd things, and he enjoyed raising Monarch Butterflies. He also enjoyed his feline companions, Mabel and Tiny. Mark is survived by a sister, Martha J. Backstrom, Russell, PA; a brother, James Backstrom, and his wife Dorinda, also of Russell; three nephews, Dan Scott, Jeremiah Scott, and Donny Backstrom; a great nephew, Ethan Backstrom; and several other great nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the Peterson-Blick Funeral Home Inc., 1003 Penna. Ave. East, Warren, PA on Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 12 noon until 1:00 pm, at which time a funeral service will be held, with Rev. Joel Dingeldein, pastor, Calvary Baptist Church, officiating. The family suggests memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association Pittsburgh Office 2835 E. Carson Street Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 Those wishing to send online condolences may do so by visiting www.petersonblickfuneralhome.com