The Skeena
It was a sad day in August 2020 when Paul Backhouse lost his life.
The Smithers local was cycling when he was struck and killed by a vehicle.
His legacy lives on in a new award called the Paul Backhouse Memorial Fund, which was given out for the very first time earlier this winter.
The recipient is Smithers’ own Edge Learning Centre, which is known for “creating unique learning opportunities and education programs for Bulkley Valley youth.”
The award will specifically support a project aimed at avalanche safety.
Before he passed away, Blackhouse was an important part of the community.
He moved with his family to the Bulkley Valley in 2015 and became Crown Counsel for Smithers.
“Paul’s commitment to justice and service was evident in the principles he upheld as a legal professional and his deep concern for the challenges faced by marginalized populations in the community,” reads a description of the new award.
“Paul’s passion was finding wilderness adventure in the many ways the northwest offers in abundance – making fresh tracks in the mountains, rock- and ice-climbing, mountain biking, and white-water paddling,” it says. “Those with whom he shared these experiences appreciated his sharp wit, integrity and good company. Paul was deeply committed to his family and finding ways to make his young son smile was his greatest joy.”
Edge Learning Centre is thrilled to keep Backhouse’s legacy alive, calling its selection for the award “great news”.
