Pirjo Kyllikki Appling

Pirjo Kyllikki Appling, 77, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Jalasjärvi, Finland, to Sauli and Lempi Uusitalo, Pirjo's life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and service to others.

Raised first in Australia and later in the United States, Pirjo embraced a rich and adventurous life. It was in the U.S. where she met the love of her life, Bruce Appling. They were married for 58 wonderful years and built a beautiful life together.

Pirjo was a devoted mother to Heidi Byrd of Kalispell, Montana, and Leif Appling and his wife Christina. Her love extended even further to her cherished grandchildren: Jason, Aurora, Elora, Angelia, and Julieanna, all of Kalispell, Montana.

After graduating from high school, Pirjo pursued her passion for fashion by earning a degree in Fashion Design from LA Trade-Tech. She worked as a talented seamstress and later transitioned into tax preparation, showing her versatility and dedication. Throughout her life, Pirjo sewed a wide variety of garments, from ice skating outfits to warm outerwear. She was especially proud to contribute her skills by sewing for the Special Olympics, a cause dear to her heart.

Pirjo's creativity didn’t end with her profession—her hobbies were just as inspiring. She was a master of spinning, weaving, knitting, crocheting, and beadwork. Her handmade creations were gifts of warmth and love to many. She also gave her time generously, volunteering with the Marion Fire Department Auxiliary.

Pirjo is survived by her beloved husband Bruce; her children, Heidi and Leif (Christina); her grandchildren, Jason, Aurora, Elora, Angelia, and Julieanna; and her siblings, Pirkko O'Clock, Paula Uusitalo, and Pekka Uusitalo. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sauli and Lempi Uusitalo.

Pirjo will be remembered for her deep love of family, boundless creativity, generous spirit, and unwavering support of those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, dedication, and kindness that will live on in all who knew her.

A memorial service is pending at this time.