Carol Ann Bissell

Carol Ann Bissell was born on December 27, 1942, in Boise, Idaho, and spent her early years in Deadwood, Idaho, where her parents Clarence and Gladys Hoopes worked at the Deadwood Mine, then operated by the United States Army. After the end of World War 2, the family eventually settled on a small Boise Bench acreage where her brother Wayne was born. They were raised in a Christian home. Carol attended Whitney Friends Church until her graduation from high school.

At the age of 15, Carol met Roger Bissell, her algebra tutor, and soon they were dating. After Carol graduated from Borah High School, Carol and Roger were married on May 10, 1963, in Moscow, Idaho, where Roger was attending the University of Idaho. They began their life together in Boise, with a brief two-year assignment in Corvallis, Oregon, where Roger pursued his engineering career at CH2M Hill and post-graduate studies at Oregon State University.

Carol loved all furry animals, especially horses and dogs. As a child, she rode and jumped her horse Trigger, and throughout her life, she formed deep bonds with many dogs, each leaving a special mark on her heart. Her most recent canine companion, Jakers, was with her until the end, a loyal friend who brought her great joy.

Carol loved to shop and was a lifelong antique collector. She enjoyed decorating and filled her home with her special acquisitions. Carol loved shoes and fashionable clothes. As a young woman, she enjoyed sewing and made her own dresses and suits. Later in life she turned that talent to needlepoint and counted cross-stitch.

Carol’s commitment to her faith in Jesus was evident throughout her life. Joining Bible Study Fellowship in the 1980’s was transformational for Carol and her family. She faithfully served as a BSF Group Leader for 20 years. Carol consistently prayed for her family, friends, and loved ones.

Carol enjoyed the Idaho outdoors with her family. Camping in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, hiking the Boise foothills, picnicking near Banks, or simply looking at the full moon from her window were some of her favorites. Of course, being outdoors was always better for her with a hot cup of coffee.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the incredible care team who made it possible for Carol to stay in her home with her beloved Jakers. The team who sacrificially surrounded her in her final two weeks truly demonstrated the compassion of Jesus. Their dedication, kindness, and prayers provided great comfort, and we are especially grateful they allowed her beloved dog, Jake, to be by her side even when he made their jobs a bit harder.

Carol passed away at home on July 28, 2025. Her surviving family members include her son, Kevin Bissell, and daughter-in-law, Katy Bissell, of Boise, as well as her daughter, Crystal Bissell Pirtle, and son-in-law, Thomas Pirtle, also of Boise.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Eagle Christian Church (Surprise Valley Campus, 4601 S Surprise Way, Boise, ID 83716).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice.