Ken passed away peacefully at home with his wife and daughter. He was born in Cambridge, Iowa, to hardworking Norwegian parents, Christine and Reuben Apland.  He was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church of Alsen. He spent his childhood and school years on the Apland-Severson farm in Alsen, North Dakota. Ken was active in 4-H, raising award-winning shorthorn cattle. He developed a lifelong love of basketball at Alsen High School, where his team placed 4th at the State Championship in 1941.

            After graduation in 1943, Ken joined the Navy and served on the aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt. He used his GI bill to attend the Kansas City School of Watchmaking and Jewelry Repair. Ken worked for Parker Jewelers in Everett, Washington for three years before purchasing his own store in the 38th Street district of Tacoma. There he met and married Marlene Berger in 1955. They have four children: Jan Curtis (Richard), Ken Allen Apland (Kathy), Judy Apland, and Karen Apland.

            In 1965 he moved his family to Cottage Grove, Oregon, where he owned Apland Jewelers, retiring in 1998. In 2005 Ken and Marlene moved to the Charbonneau district of Wilsonville, Oregon, where he enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels in the backyard and playing golf. He took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren, and he was totally charmed by his great-grandchildren.

            Ken was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his wife, Marlene, his four children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for November 18 at Community of Hope Lutheran Church on Stafford Road at 11AM. Donations may be made in his memory to Community of Hope Lutheran Church or Shriners Hospital for Children.