It is with profound sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of William “Bill” (Papa) Bishop, who departed this life on February 18, 2026, at the age of 70. Bill passed peacefully in the home he built, surrounded by the family who cherished him. Born on Christmas Day in 1955 in Lansing, Michigan, Bill moved with his family to California as an infant. Even as a young boy, his natural curiosity and mechanical mind were unmistakable. He was the child who took things apart just to understand how they worked, and by elementary school, he was already repairing small appliances and developing the hands‑on skills that would shape his life’s work.

Bill graduated from Hayward High School in 1974. At age 20, he met the love of his life, Catherine (Cathy) Kremer. The two were married on November 13, 1976, beginning a partnership built on devotion, teamwork, and unwavering love. They purchased their first home in Hayward in 1978, and soon after welcomed their children—son Michael in 1979, daughter Carrie in 1981, and in 2011, Sabrina, completing their family.

Throughout his life, Bill worked in many trades, each one reflecting his talent for building, fixing, and creating. He worked as an auto mechanic, cabinet shop owner, installation technician, and appliance technician. Eventually, he owned and operated Ralph’s Appliance in California, a business known for honesty, skill, and the kind of customer care that came naturally to him. After moving to Twin Falls, Idaho, in 2001, Bill fulfilled a lifelong dream in 2009 by designing and building the “forever home” where he and Cathy would spend their years together.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great‑grandfather. Nothing brought him more joy than time spent with family—sharing stories, offering guidance, and exploring new business ideas to support the people he loved. His hands built and repaired countless things, but his heart built a legacy of generosity, loyalty, and love.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy Kremer Bishop; his children Michael John Bishop, Carrie Louann (Bishop) Costa, and Sabrina (foster) George Henderson; and his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren Mandy Costa, Jonny Costa, JJ Foster, Savannah Costa, Kayanna Costa, Maxine Costa, Amethyst Costa, and Evie Costa. He is also survived by his siblings Jackie, Jeanie, Bobby, and Gary.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his son‑in‑law Ricky Costa; his grandson Klaus Costa; and several siblings who went before him.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on June 20, 2026, at the family home: 378 Buchanan St, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301
In lieu of flowers, Cathy kindly requests donations toward the purchase of a fruit tree or seed packets to plant a vegetable garden in Bill’s honor—an enduring tribute to his love of building, nurturing, and creating life around him.

Bill’s legacy lives on in the kindness he shared, the skills he passed down, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the guestbook section below