Claire Heinl Bissell

Claire Bissell, age 95, passed away of natural causes on August 27,2026 at her home in Boca Grande. She was an Active Boca Grande Community volunteer. Working closely with, The Women’s Club, Art Alliance, Yacht Club, and The Catholic Church.

Claire was a woman of grace and beauty. She was the Matriarch of her family and a source of love and strength to all who knew her. From the desert of Edward’s Air Force Base and the coastal warmth of Newport Beach, to Michigan Landscapes of Grand Rapids and Harbor Springs. Claire found her most comfort in her retired years in Sun Valley, and Boca Grand, her final resting place. Her positive influence and legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Born in Charlotte, NC on May 7,1931 to the late Sadie and Robert Heinl. Claire grew up with a deep appreciation for family, art, and travel. She carried those passions throughout her life, becoming an accomplished artist and world traveler. Claire graduated from Cortland State University of NY, with a degree in Primary Education.

Claire was the beloved Wife of John M. Bissell for 74 years. Their marriage was defined as a partnership built on mutual respect and enduring love. Her proudest accomplishment was raising her four outstanding sons. Claire dedicated her life to her family and cherished the time spent watching them grow. Her sons brought to Claire’s loving arms, Six Grandchildren, and Fifteen Great Grandchildren.

Beyond her role as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Claire was a competitive sailor and enjoyed racing while living on the Long Island Sound, Newport Beach, and at Macatawa Bay in Michigan. Claire was also a docent for the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Claire was actively in her Boca Grande Community as a volunteer and philanthropist. Friends and family will remember her for her radiant smile, unwavering kindness, and quiet strength.

Claire is survived by her loving husband, John, of 74 years. Four loving sons, John (MJ), Matthew (Vicki), Mark (Cathy), and James (Lisa); six Grand Children, Brandon, Alissandra, Adam, Max, Morgan, and Meric; fifteen great grandchildren, Ava, Sloan, Carter, Emerson, Carter, Blake, Eleanor, Madison, Collins, Kaia, Anna, Lydia, Brody, Aila, Brooks and Hallie.

A Catholic Mass for Family will be held in her Honor at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Boca Grande Florida, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 10 AM. A celebration of Life for friends and Boca Grand Islanders will be scheduled for some time in November. The Family asks that in lieu of flowers, please support Bissell Pet Foundation @ https://www.bissellpetfoundation.org would be welcomed and acknowledged.