Kenneth Lewis Green

Kenneth Lewis (Kenny) Green was born July 2, 1933 in San Diego, California to Melvin and Maude Mary Green. He passed away October 2, 2015 in Astoria, Oregon. Kenny grew up in California, Washington, Idaho and Oregon. He attended Grant Union High school in John Day, Oregon while living with his foster mother May Ledgerwood and her children. He moved to Knappa, Oregon to live with his sister, graduating from Knappa High School in 1954. May 14, 1955 he married his high school sweetheart, Claire Ann (Tanny) Lee. He built the family home in Knappa where they raised their four children. Kenny worked in several local industries, including Bradwood Sawmill, American Can Company and Wauna Paper Mill, retiring as journeyman millwright after more than 30 years. Kenny's interests included: hunting, especially in Halfway, Oregon, refereeing basketball and football, and coaching youth sports. He coached several generations of Knappa Babe Ruth baseball players, winning many tournaments and championships. He and Tanny loved and supported Knappa High School sports teams, following them to games and tournaments statewide. They especially loved the state tournaments in Pendleton, Oregon. After retirement Kenny and Tanny took many happy trips with their fifth-wheel trailer all over the country. Kenny is survived by his wife of 60 years, Tanny, their children: Lynn (Gary) Van Bladeren, Teri (Jerry) Arguello, Tami (Ben) Gardner, and Scott Green. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren: Daniel (Holly), Kari (fianc Garette Rochester), James and Tyler Green; Chris and Lisa Van Bladeren, Josh and Cassie Gardner, Deena (Steven) Dowler and Sarah (Mike) Telfer; as well as nine great-grandchildren. Kenny's greatest pride and joy in life was his family. A Graveside Service will be held on October 7, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Prairie Cemetery in Knappa. The family will receive visitors at the Wickiup Grange in Svenson immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Knappa Summer Recreation or Knappa High School Athletics.