The Red Cross mission isn’t possible without the selfless workers behind the scenes who collect lifesaving blood products that give patients a fighting chance. The Idaho and East Oregon biomedical team lost a champion earlier this year when phlebotomist Chris Bollar passed suddenly in April. He was a dedicated father, husband, son, co-worker and shoulder to lean on.

Recently, family members and colleagues came together to host a two-day blood drive in McCall to honor his memory and the impact he had on so many people in Idaho and beyond.

"He has always had a passion for the medical field,” said his mother, Jo Ellen. “He enjoyed knowing his work helped save lives. He was a loving, caring person and loved his Red Cross family.”

Before joining the Red Cross, Chris spent more than a decade in emergency services. After knee injuries changed his path, he found another way to do what he loved: help people.

When asked what he liked most about his role as a phlebotomist during a mobile blood in 2024, Chris replied, “I would say the donors. They’re always friendly, always have a good time, it’s nice to see them. And all new donors, the new people coming in, seeing their faces, making their day, and letting them know that they’re saving lives.”

"He was proud to be part of something that could make a difference and help people when they needed it most,” said his daughter, Bria.

Chris genuinely loved his job, his team, and the donors. Above all, his heart was connected with the mission of the Red Cross.

“It’s a great organization. Just positive people, positive energy,” he said in 2024. “The message behind it is huge, saving lives is also a good thing.”

He was proud to roll up his sleeves and work hard while inspiring colleagues and donors to do the same.

“He loved his co-workers, who became his family,” said Chris’s wife, Ashlie. “They put a smile on his face every workday. There wasn't a better crew that I could've asked for him.”

Chris’s passing was sudden, but his presence lives in the hearts of those who knew him and provides hope not only to patients, but the loved ones waiting anxiously by hospital bedsides.

"He loved his work and was so passionate about getting every donation possible so he could save a life. This wasn't just a job. It was a purpose and a way he could give to those in need,” Ashlie said.

A serious car accident delayed the first day’s start, leaving just three hours for donations, but Chris’s spirit led his crew once more. Despite multiple setbacks, the team collected 120 units of blood over two days.

“I also had more than one donor and volunteer compliment the team on how well organized the drive was,” Collections Manager Rebecca Cisernos said. “They couldn't believe how quickly they all set up and tore down, and how well everything was arranged. That directly reflects their skill and teamwork.”

Photos, life-size cutouts, hugs and shared memories of Chris filled the drive in McCall, a place close to his heart.

"This drive means so much to me because it honors my dad in a place that was special to him," Bria said. "Knowing his memory is helping bring people together to help others means everything to me."

“The Biomed team did a great job. So many wonderful touches such as life-size cut outs of Chris and lots of photos of him,” said Regional CEO and Executive Director Nicole Sirak Irwin. “His lovely family showed up big time and are so grateful that everyone in Chris’s life is keeping his big energy spirit going.”

Thank you to everyone who paid tribute to Chris’s memory with such care; his compassion and kindness united and inspired people once again.

"It means the world to me and the rest of his family. Having him honored has been such a blessing because he put his soul into his work,” Ashlie said. “Keeping a piece of him alive is comforting in a way that's hard to describe. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart." 

Below is a poem written by colleagues who considered Chris family.

The McCall Mission: A Tribute to Chris and a Tale of Determination

There once was a crew headed up to McCall,

To honor dear Chris, beloved by all.

Eight Mobile Collection heroes set out with great cheer,

Not knowing what adventure awaited within the day.

With Nicole P., Sage H., and Rebecca A. joining the team,

From Boise and Nampa, they chased a noble dream.

Nicole I., Rebecca C. and Steve D. left leadership's chairs, 

Rolled up their sleeves and said, "We're helping out there!"

But the highway had plans that were not on the chart,

A car accident decided to play a small part.

The road was shut down, traffic stood still,

And a three-hour delay tested everyone's will.

Donors were waiting, schedules were tight,

The team kept their cool and continued the fight.

Phones started ringing, appointments were moved,

And everyone's flexibility was certainly proved!

"Day Two will be bigger!" the Account Manager Margee S. cried,

As she shuffled appointments with teamwork and pride.

No panic, no whining, no throwing a fit,

Just Red Cross determination and a whole lot of grit.

The next morning came with a beautiful view,

The mountains stood tall and the donors came through.

They remembered Chris Bollar, so gentle and kind,

The big brother and protector still present in mind.

As units were collected one donor at a time,

The team found their rhythm and got into their prime.

Whole blood was flowing, the Power Reds too,

With lifesaving donations from an incredible few.

They counted up eighty-nine Whole Blood units with pride,

And thirty-one Power Reds right alongside.

One hundred twenty donations by the end of Day Two,

A remarkable accomplishment from this dedicated crew!

Chris likely was smiling and looking down near,

Saying, "That's my team. Way to persevere!"

Through closed roads, delays, and schedule confusion,

They delivered on their mission with no hesitation.

So, here's to the team who answered the call,

Who climbed every obstacle, standing proud and tall.

To Nicolle P., Sage H., Rebecca A., Rebecca C., Nicole I, and Steve D. too,

And the eight Mobile Collection superheroes who saw it through.

The numbers are impressive, the achievement is grand,

But the real success came from helping hand in hand.

For every unit collected tells a lifesaving story,

And honoring Chris was the heart of that glory.

So, raise up a cheer and let the applause roll,

For this hardworking crew that gave it their soul.

One hundred twenty lives touched, perhaps many more,

By a team that turned roadblocks into reasons to soar.

In loving memory of Chris Bollar, whose spirit of compassion, teamwork, and unwavering support for others continues to inspire every mile traveled, every donor welcomed, and every unit collected. His legacy lives on through the lives touched and the mission carried forward by those who had the privilege of knowing him. With heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation, thank you to Robert V., Airika H., Clara L., Dana W., Eli S., Parker M., Rickie H., Denise W., Sage H., Nicolle P., Rebecca A., Nicole I., Rebecca C., Margee S., and Steve D. for your dedication, teamwork, flexibility, and commitment to making the McCall blood drive a tremendous success.