Dr. Kenneth Alan Sorensen
Dr. Kenneth Alan Sorensen, 81, of Raleigh, North Carolina passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026. Surrounded by family and the place he loved the most NC State.
Ken was born on August 11, 1944 in Providence, Rhode Island to Christian and Helen Sorensen. Dr. Kenneth Sorensen graduated with a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Rhode Island and with a Master's and PhD from Kansas State University. He worked as an Extension Entomologist in fruits/vegetables for NC State University for over 36 years. He was known for his integrated pest management work, specifically on strawberries, muscadine grapes, and sweet potatoes, with farmers, county extension agents, students, and colleagues locally and internationally.
Ken was passionate about building connections and helping others by volunteering his talents and time while holding several presidential and leadership roles on countless committees starting from a young age being in The Grange in RI, Boy Scouts, Swift Creek Exchange Club, NC Agricultural Consultants Association, Entomological Society of America, Knights of the Vine, Swifters and within Macedonia United Methodist Church. His work and volunteerism has been honored through many achievement certificates and awards throughout the years. He is also known for his award-winning honey, 4H insect collections and working at the NC State Fair and at the voting polls each year. Ken and Joyce both enjoyed bingo, bowling and square dancing together.
He tended an acre garden annually, which he shared the produce with many and was an avid beekeeper. He especially loved traveling, making it to all 50 states and visiting many countries around the world. He was so proud of his kids and grandkids cheering them on at all their sports endeavors with his endless support. His most treasured memories were of family get-togethers, holidays, and reunions and attending NC State football, basketball and baseball games for over 55 years!
Ken is survived by his beloved wife Joyce of 57 years of marriage, adored and admired by his loving daughters Heather Sorensen (Brad Odell), Christina Hester (Matt) and Kylene Bilderback (Tim); his most precious grandchildren Haleigh, Wyatt, Kenny, Charleston and Sage, his big brother David Sorensen (Linda) and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Christian and Helen Sorensen.
The funeral, followed by the Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 27th at 3:00 pm at Macedonia UMC, in Cary, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Macedonia United Methodist Church (https://www.macedoniaumc.org/) and the Swift Creek Exchange Club (mail checks to 5404 Millrace Trail, Raleigh NC 27606 Memo line: In Memory of Ken Sorensen).
We are reminded of his goodness in service, graciousness in volunteering, devotion to life, family and friends, his career and enthusiasm for NC State University and his unwavering faith!
Not a day goes by without something you shared, taught, gave, or created reminding us of you. We carry a piece of you in the memories you left and the traces of your love woven into our lives.