The trick I've evolved to over the years is to use a small scratch awl to both push out the pin, but also its very handy when installing - get everything in place then use the scratch all to lock in the handle etc. Then from the other side use a forceps or needle nose and push the pin in. As the pin goes in, the awl comes out. That probably doesn't make much sense but trust me, once you mess with these things, especially with the spring behind the escutcheon - you'll want to perfect a method!