Our Story

History

Kiyokawa Family Orchards is rooted in over a century of perseverance, care for the land, and a deep sense of family. That family extends beyond generations of the Kiyokawa name—it includes the employees who have brought their own families, the farming community who have worked alongside them, and the customers who support the orchard year after year. Together, they have shaped the farm into what it is today.

Randy is a third-generation orchardist from Parkdale, Oregon. His grandfather emigrated from Japan in 1905 and, through hard work, began farming in the Hood River Valley in 1911.

Randy’s parents, Mamoru and Michiko, met in an internment camp during World War II. After serving in the U.S. Military Intelligence Service, Mamoru returned to Hood River in 1951 with Michiko and purchased a 25-acre orchard in Parkdale—the foundation of today’s 207-acre farm. There, they raised five children, including Randy.

In 1987, Randy returned home earlier than planned to help care for his father during an illness—a decision that would shape the future of the farm. Just a few years later, the 1989 Alar scare devastated apple growers across the country. Although Kiyokawa Family Orchards never used Alar, demand for apples collapsed.

Out of necessity, Randy placed a simple sign by the road: “Apples 5¢ a pound.” What began as a way to survive became something more. Families started stopping by, and children asked to pick apples from a nearby tree. Seeing their joy, Randy reimagined the farm—removing old pear orchards and planting a wide variety of apples.

What started with 28 varieties has grown into over 120 today, many of them unique and difficult to find elsewhere. Over time, the farm expanded into farmers markets, wholesale partnerships, and a diverse mix of fruit including peaches, pears, cherries, and cider apples.

Family

Family continues to be at the heart of Kiyokawa Family Orchards. Randy credits much of his success to those around him—especially his mother, Michiko, who lived to 102 and was known for her thoughtful guidance and honest feedback. His four sisters—Becky, Margie, Nancy, and Connie—still return each year to help during the busy fruit stand season.

Randy’s children have each taken their own paths, while staying connected to the farm. Cameron, a firefighter in The Dalles, lends his mechanical and welding skills when needed. Catherine lives in eastern Oregon with her husband and family, where she enjoys ranch life and a close-knit community.

Rebecca has returned home to help lead the next chapter of the orchard. Deeply involved in the agricultural community, she is committed to carrying the family legacy forward while helping the farm continue to grow and connect with future generations.

Randy’s partner, Badri Azar, brings warmth, compassion, and a strong sense of family to the orchard. Born and raised in Tehran, she and Randy often say, “It was fate that brought this big city girl and small-town farm boy together”.

The true backbone of the operation is its 45+ employees—many of whom have been with the orchard for over 30 years. At Kiyokawa Family Orchards, “family” includes the people who have dedicated their lives to the land, often raising their own children here alongside the Kiyokawas. Over time, the orchard has become more than a workplace—it is a place where families grow, connect, and belong.