Harold James Bissner Jr.

RIP Harold Bissner Jr. He was interesting, clever and kind. We were fortunate to have met him after we'd just bought one of his fantastic "pole" houses, built in 1978 on Rancheros Place, Pasadena. Harold (and his son Jamie) graciously came to visit us at the house because we wanted to meet him and know all about the house and contruction details. His architectural legacy lives on.

Another year has passed and now son Jamie has joined Harold, an event which rekindles my memories of Harold. He was always principled in the way he treated other people and was a wonderful friend. His architectural talents still shine in the Pasadena community.

It has been two years since Harold passed from our lives, and now his daughter Susann has joined him. A sad time for his family to which he was devoted. This is a time to remember each of their places in our lives and how much they meant to us.

I joined Harold and Lela in their den for lunch on one of his last few days. Hard to believe that was just over a year ago, What a year since then! I am thankful that he went in peace untouched by the hardships of this past year. Great memories of his life remain.

We are belatedly sad to hear this news of Mr. Bissner's passing, who was the architect of our previous home (The Harold Olsen House), and we believe that he may have been the architect of our current home in Kinneloa Mesa. His attention to the setting of the home into the environment to create an inviting sanctuary for living was extraordinary. We wish his family as many wonderful years as he spent in his life. Wendy and Dana Alden

Harold was a close friend for over 50 years. I first met Harold when he was designing with "windmill" restaurants for Van de Kamp's. My husband was the Van de Kamp's attorney. Soon we were getting together constantly: dinners at each other's homes (Harold was a great cook), going to Dodger games and USC football games, visiting the Bissners at their Palm Springs get-away. I remember the dinner picnic we had squatting just off the street on the hill where Harold was preparing to build the pole house which was his home for the rest of his life. Another wonderful memory was the trip to the Greek Islands. So many memories, so much we shared. Harold, you are truly missed. Judy Graven

We will miss our friend Harold . He was a talented architect & creative soul who led a fascinating long life. The lovely home he designed in So Pasadena for he & his wife Lela
was a testiment to his Artistry.

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I personally met Harold and Lela in August 2019 when they visited my house. They attended a little luncheon I had in my house. Harold came mainly to see my house, because it was built by Harold Bissner senior. He was a kind man and it was a pleasure a meeting him. I am saddened by his passing away. As a realtor I have visited many houses built by the Bissners. May he rest in peace!

Teri, Justy and your family. Joy overtakes me as I read the beautiful tribute to your father, father-in-law, grandfather and wonderful husband. What a great creative man who has such a vision! I know very well where you get your talent!!! May your hearts be filled with joy as you always remember. Smile often as you look at his works and reflect on his memory for smiles and laughter is what keeps them alive in us! Hugs to you all, Fondly Ellen and Tadpole Tad' Ross McGarry(typed with a smile!)

My dad "Harold Bissner" was the best father a daughter could have ever hoped to have in their life.He was always there for all of us and worked so hard to provide for his family.He will always be cherished in my heart with great memories of chasing butterflies,digging for trap door spiders, going to the beaches and mountains, fishing, target practice in the desert.Going to work with him on his architectural job sites. Then there was horseback riding lessons and providing me with my own horse which become a career.When I ran the LA marathon he was waiting for me at the finish line. I know he will be waiting for me when my life is finished and I will be reunited with my father once again.Happy trails to you dad,until we meet again.Love you with all my hear!

My condolences to you and your family Jamie. I thoroughly enjoyed talking to your dad the few times I was able to over the last few years.

Beautiful tribute. Your father was an amazing man. So sorry for your loss. Much love to you and your family.

Beautiful tribute to your father. Our continued prayers for you and your family.