Kenneth Wayne Sapp, 93, passed away on October 4, 2026. He was born on May 5, 1933, in Springfield, Missouri, to Morgan and Geneva Sapp. He grew up in Springfield alongside his sister, Barbara Joan Sapp Manes.
On November 3, 1956, Ken enlisted in the United States Army. He served on active duty until May 2, 1957, and was subsequently assigned to the Ready Reserve for six and a half years. After completing his active-duty service, he attended Northwestern University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He later continued his education at UCLA, earning a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1965.
A gifted engineer with an exceptionally analytical mind, Ken was recognized for his academic achievement through membership in several engineering and mathematics honor societies. His 1965 UCLA master's thesis explored the use of numerical control and automation in machining, reflecting an early interest in engineering and technology that would continue throughout his life.
Ken went on to spend 30 years as an engineer at Hughes Aircraft. Following his retirement from Hughes, his lifelong fascination with computers led him to a second career as a computer programmer at CFS Income Tax.
Ken was first married to Nancy, with whom he had three children, Suzanne, Michelle, and Kathleen. He later married his beloved wife, Carole, on September 2, 1966, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ken and Carole had two children together, Scott and Jennifer, and shared 60 years of marriage filled with love, companionship, travel, and a deep devotion to one another.
In 1971, Ken and his family made their home in Granada Hills, California. In 1988, Ken and Carole moved to Simi Valley, where they made their home for nearly four decades.
Ken was a quiet and thoughtful man with a brilliant mind, an extraordinary memory, and a remarkable work ethic. A man of few words, he was someone who always showed up when needed. He was dependable, loyal, and deeply devoted to his family.
He remained curious throughout his life and had a particular love of computers and technology. He also appreciated good food, travel, and a good mystery — especially the classics. He and Carole traveled extensively together, experiencing places around the world and creating a lifetime of memories along the way.
Ken is survived by his wife, Carole; his five children, Suzanne, Michelle, Kathleen, Scott, and Jennifer; his eight grandchildren, Stephen, Jason, Shane, Kelsey, Brianna, Jake, Jordan, and Zeke; and his five great-grandchildren, Makenna, Cameron, Christian, Catherine, and Zoey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morgan and Geneva Sapp; his sister, Barbara Joan Sapp Manes; and his first wife, Nancy.
Ken lived a long and full life, defined not only by all that he accomplished, but by his deep love for his family and his unwavering presence in their lives. His quiet strength, brilliant mind, loyalty, and devotion will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.
