Ken Jespersen

Ken Jespersen 73, of Grants Pass, OR went to his Heavenly Home on Monday January 4, 2016. Ken succumbed his life long battle with the genetic lung disease, Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. He would tell all the nurses “After what Jesus went through for me, this is nothing.”

Ken was born in Atascadero, CA on November 18, 1942 to Francis and Edna Mae Jespersen. Ken grew up on a ranch and dairy farm where he developed a great love for agriculture. He graduated from Paso Robles High School in Paso Robles, CA, then attended Fresno State before enlisting in the National Guard.

On October 29, 1966 Ken married the “cutest and most fun loving girl” Lorna Catherine Margaroli at Zion Lutheran Church in San Luis Obispo, CA. Immediately after their honeymoon they moved to Merrill, OR and started their new life farming with his Dad, Fran, and Uncle Lawrence. Shortly thereafter cousins Larry and Leonard joined the family business known as the Jespersen Edgewood Ranch in Swan Lake east of Klamath Falls, OR.

Ken, was a member at Zion Lutheran Church, and a founding member of Christ Lutheran Church. His love for kids drew him to become the head of the youth group at Zion. He also held church council positions at both congregations. Ken was also a member of the Klamath Falls Rotary Club until he retired and moved to Grants Pass, OR, where he became a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Besides making people laugh and pulling off practical jokes on his friends, family members, employees, and even new acquaintances, Ken’s passions included restoring classic cars, wowing guests with his BBQ skills, and lighting off illegal fireworks. His laugh was contagious, unique, and could be heard often. He developed a love for fishing after residing on the majestic Rogue River. Never has a day pasted that he didn't comment on the beauty of his outdoor surroundings, the weather, and deep appreciation for God's creation.

Ken is preceded in death by parents Francis and Edna Mae Jespersen and J.J. Parish. Survived by his adored wife Lorna, his daughter Kristina Dibbern and husband Andy (Ashten and Aristen), his #1 son Kirk Jespersen and wife Cherie (Kaitlyn, Laci and Jaynie Pie Pony), his daughter Sarah Bastian and husband Todd (Braxten, Aksel & Hayden Elsa). He also leaves a sister Bev Steinbeck and her husband Howie of Paso Robles, CA; and brother and sister-in-law Chuck and Jane Margaroli.

Funeral services will be held at Hull & Hull Mortuary on Saturday January 9th at 2pm.

If desired, memorial gifts can be made in Ken’s honor to the Alpha 1 Foundation, 3500 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134.