Irene F. Backlund

Irene Florence (Hatlestad) Backlund, 98, of Fargo, ND, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025, at Eventide Fargo, where she had been a resident for the past several years. Raised on a farm south of Hickson, ND, Irene lived a life full of warmth, laughter, and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Irene was born on May 28,1926 to Clarence and Myrtle (Mattson) Hatlestad. She attended school through the 8th grade in Hickson. Irene was known to many for her infectious and distinctive laugh that could light up any room. Whether in the kitchen, with family and friends, or at community events, her laughter was a signature sound, spreading joy wherever she went. But perhaps Irene’s most beloved legacy was her reputation as the “Pie Lady” at the Sons of Norway, making up to 20 pies for Thursday’s Pie Day.

Irene married Wallace Backlund on June 21, 1947 at the Hickson Lutheran Church. They were about to celebrate 65 years of marriage when Wally died in 2012. Wally and Irene loved to dance, travel, and volunteer at the Sons of Norway making lutefisk, lefse, and of course, pies. In 2023 Irene was awarded the Sons of Norway Kringen Lodge “Golden Membership Award” for her long and faithful service. They were members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fargo. Irene and Wally farmed in the Hickson area for nearly 40 years. Irene had a tremendous work ethic and was an extremely hard worker. When not on the farm, Irene was involved in many community activities including serving as a 4-H Leader, Sunday School Superintendent and Teacher, Ladies Aid, and the Hickson Senior Citizens. Irene worked at the Elim Nursing Home in Fargo first as a nurse’s aide and then head cook.

Irene was a loving wife, aunt, and friend. She had a heart as warm as the ovens she spent so much time by, always offering a listening ear and a gentle word of encouragement. This past September, Irene participated in Eventide’s Daydream Project and got to take her first helicopter ride, touring the city of Fargo from the air.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Wallace, her parents, and sister Clarice. She is survived by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Irene’s life will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND, on Friday, February 7, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Sons of Norway or to a charity of your choice.

Irene will be remembered for her laughter, her pies, and the immense love she shared with all who knew her. She was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed.

A special thank you to the staff at Eventide and Ethos Hospice for their loving care of Irene.

Arrangements by Wright Funeral Home Interment burial will be held at Lower Wild Rice Red River Cemetery