Kenneth Mannie Mills

Ken worked from the age of 14 with his dad, learning the trade of being a butcher. In his off time, he enjoyed adventures with friends and cousins, fishing and sometimes getting into a little bit of mischief.

He met Ella Belle Goodnow, and after about a year and a half of courtship, they were married on August 20, 1940 in Twin Falls, Idaho. Their son, Larry, was born in 1941. After working in the shipyards in the Portland area, Ken joined the Army in October of 1944. He became a Staff Sergeant while serving in the Philippines. He received an honorable discharge in November 1946 and returned to life with Ella Belle and Larry in Portland.

They had a daughter, Leanna, in July 1947 and moved to the Yakima area. In 1951, they moved to Union Gap where they lived for over 60 years.

He owned Ken’s Meat Market on So. 1st Street for about 20 years where his dad and Larry worked alongside him. He worked long hours but also enjoyed time with his buddies, fishing, and playing horseshoes.

His grandkids spent time fishing and camping with them summers and weekends. Their door was always open to numerous kids and relatives over the years who needed a place to stay. He and Ella Belle were an important part of the lives of many.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife of 75 years, Ella Belle, his parents, 2 sisters, and his son.

He is survived by his daughter, Leanna (Bill) Conrad; his brother, Keith (Carol) Mills; his sister, Diane; a daughter-in-law, numerous grandchildren, and several great grandchildren.

Our family thanks Cedar Hills staff for their care. In lieu of flowers, please support veterans or a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, January 12, 2017 at Langevin El Paraiso Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 13, 2017 at West Hills Memorial Park. There will be a memorial service held later this spring, in April to celebrate Ken’s life. To share a memory of Ken, visit www.lepfuneralhome.com.