Carolee Kissel Obituary

Carolee Joanne (O'Green) Kissel, passed away Sunday, July 13, 2025, peacefully at the age of 91. She was a shining example of faith, love, and service-always putting others before herself and living out her days with grace and kindness.

She was born on March 29, 1934 in Mason City, Iowa to Arthur and Arlene (Walter) O'Green. Carolee met the love of her life, Ronald L. Kissel, in 1950. After years of writing each other, the two married on November 9, 1952 and Carolee moved from the city in Iowa, to a farm in Ohio with her husband.

A member of the Child Conservation League, the silver sneakers and The First Church of the Brethren in Mansfield, she enjoyed reading, and bowling as well as square dancing.

Mom touched so many lives through her warmth, her strength, and her unwavering devotion to her family, church, and community. Whether she was crocheting hats for NICU babies, teaching Sunday school, working with Disaster Relief or offering a comforting word, her heart was always open. Carolee was a devout Christian, and everything she did was with purpose and to serve the Lord. A special mention to Donna Bourne for the love and care during Carolee's illness.

While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the incredible legacy she leaves behind. We are grateful for the memories, lessons, and love she poured into all of us.

She is now resting in the arms of the Lord she served so faithfully.

Carolee is survived by her four children, Joyce (Terry - deceased) McKown of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, Jerry (Debbie) Kissel of Shelby, Wayne (Cheryl) Kissel of Shelby, Bonnie Bishop of Johnsville, Ohio; 24 grandchildren, 52 great grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; sister Rebecca O'Green of Mason City, Iowa, numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Kissel in 2013; daughter Pamela Hoffman, son Michael Kissel, granddaughter, Jennifer Hoffman, two great grandsons, Ethan McKown and Harley Kissel, and sister Sharon Newman.

Friends may visit at the Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory in Shelby Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held the following day at the funeral home, Thursday at 10:00 AM. Her son, Pastor Wayne Kissel will officiate, with interment held in the Franklin Church Cemetery in Mansfield.

In place of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve at 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110

Memories and condolences can be left for the family online at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com.