LaVell “Betty” Missman
1928 - 2012
LaVell Missman, beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed
away suddenly on April 16, 2012 at the age of 84, surrounded by her family after
suffering a stroke. LaVell was born in Boise on February 26, 1928 to Edward R.
and Lillie Barker. She attended the old
Franklin School from elementary through high school. In 1946 LaVell married Gene Missman. They built their home in Boise’s north end, where
they raised their three daughters.
LaVell cherished every memory of time she spent with her
mother, Lillie. LaVell wrote in her journal,
“She gave me love, as well as life, so whatever goodness I may bring to earth,
began with the gift of my Mother’s heart.” LaVell gave that same kind of unconditional
love to her daughters and grandchildren.
Her grandchildren loved to help ‘Grandma.’ She had unending patience
with them. Not worried about flour on
the floor (and walls), they made decorated cookies, did sewing projects, colored
pictures, and listened to stories. . .memories they will cherish forever.
LaVell shared 65 years of love and friendship with Gene; she
will forever be his “Sweetie Pie”. She was “Sis” to her three brothers whom she
loved deeply
. Throughout
her life she remained close with her many cousins and sisters-in-law Hellen and
Pat. She was exceptionally kind and generous;
she was the perfect role model, friend and confidant. Anyone who knew her was touched by her love.
She was a homemaker and wonderful cook. Friends and relatives looked forward to
receiving one of her gift packages filled with delicious homemade cinnamon rolls,
chocolate chip cookies or banana bread. She
also enjoyed canning, sewing and reading. Gene and LaVell built their cabin in Lowman
where the family spent most weekends enjoying the river, mountains, and being
together. LaVell loved gardening and
grew gorgeous flowers. She took great pleasure
in providing beauty for others to enjoy.
As a member of Boise Friends Church, she created stunning floral
arrangements for the congregation. She
also taught Sunday school and headed the Cradle Roll Department. Her faith and
devotion to God remained strong throughout her life with daily bible reading
and prayer.
LaVell is survived by her husband Gene; her daughters,
Jeanie Largen (William) of Rainier, WA, Jannis Cloud of Nampa, and Judy Bowns
(Dennis) of Boise. Grandchildren: Jodie
Moon, Kevin (Diana) Cloud, Ryan Cloud, Jeremy (Kim) Cloud, Keri Cloud, Amber Clark
and Derek Clark. Great grandchildren: Haden,
Erika, Jarrod, Jessica, Natalie, Delainey, Star, Hunter, Andi, and Rachel. She is also survived by her brothers, Jim
(Hellen), Joe (Patricia), and Ed (Marie) Barker; numerous nieces and nephews; and
her friend of 78 years, who she considered a sister, Phyllis Bertram.
A celebration of LaVell’s life will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial donations may be made to
LaVell’s favorite charity, the Boise Rescue Mission Ministry Center, 308 S. 24
th
St., Boise 83702.