Carol Applen

Carol Ann Applen, 77, passed away on October 20, 2026. She was born in Rochester, MN, on July 21, 1949, to Raymond and Marcella Bale.  

She married John "Jack" Applen in April of 1969 at Chatfield Lutheran Church. Carol spent her life in the countryside, where she flourished as a homemaker and farming wife. Together with Jack, they raised their twin daughters on the farm. They were hardworking people who dedicated themselves to the farm. When she wasn't busy with farmwork, she enjoyed baking delicious sweets and homemade pies. Carol enjoyed sewing, quilting, gardening and canning. Carol had many crafts she loved. Her and Jack also enjoyed going to events with the Drifters Car Club in their Street Rod. 

Carol worked as a patient appointment coordinator at the Mayo Clinic for many years. She enjoyed making others feel at ease, both at work and at home. Carol adored the farm life, tending to her garden and preserving vegetables for her family's meals, making sure to take care of her family. 

Carol is survived by her daughters, Christine (Robert) Schmidt, Catherine (Scott) Baker; grandchildren, Ashley (Dawson) Durst, Mikayla Baker, Jared Baker, Benjamin (Anna) Pressnall, Gavin Pressnall; great-grandchildren, Declan Durst, Ainsley Durst, Grayson Pressnall, River Pressnall; and brother, Jim Bale. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Marcella Bale; and husband, John "Jack" Applen.  

Visitation will be held at Hoff Funeral Home in Chatfield on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 4 PM to 7 PM. Her funeral service will take place on Monday at 11 AM at Chatfield Lutheran Church, with visitation beginning one hour prior. She will be laid to rest at Orion Cemetery.