Kenneth " Ken" Garrison

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ken Garrison, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend, who left us on October 27, 2026. Born on September 2, 1937, in Grants, New Mexico, to Ralph and Mabel Garrison, Ken lived a life rich in adventure, love, and community.

Ken’s early years were spent in Illinois, where he graduated from Macomb High School in 1955. He fondly recalled his senior year, boasting of their undefeated football and basketball teams. This enthusiasm and team spirit would follow him throughout his life.

Ken’s life was a tapestry of diverse experiences and ventures. He owned restaurants, companies, and properties across the United States, leaving a mark in every endeavor. With his wife Joan, whom he married in Las Vegas, Nevada, during one of their many adventures to Mexico, he traveled extensively. Together with their daughter Jeanne, they explored the country in a 35-foot bus, importing goods from Mexico and selling them at carnivals. In 1982, they settled in Centralia, Washington, where Ken’s entrepreneurial spirit continued to thrive. He sold rock band T-shirts and delivered Avon products, which serendipitously led him to discover a mobile home park for sale in Mossyrock. With his daughter Jeanne managing it, they later purchased the Viking Cafe in 1996.

Ken was known for his infectious curiosity and sharp mind. Whether it was engaging in lively debates about government policies, solving mechanical problems, or sponsoring race and derby cars, Ken brought passion and knowledge to everything he did. His evenings often included a seat at the blackjack table at the Lucky Eagle Casino or a chat over coffee at the Viking Cafe, where he could easily strike up a conversation with anyone he met.

His love for his family was profound and unwavering. Ken was predeceased by his beloved wife Joan, his son Bruce Spangler, his infant daughter Kendra Garrison, and all six of his siblings. He leaves behind his children, John (Karen) Spangler of Wylie, Texas; Kent Garrison of Edmonds, Illinois; Beth (Bill) Standridge of New London, Iowa; and Jeanne (David) Threlfall of Mossyrock, Washington. Ken was a proud grandfather to 12 and a great-grandfather to 17. He also leaves behind his extended Viking Cafe family, adopted family, and poker buddies, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on November 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Mossyrock Community Center in Mossyrock, Washington. The family invites all who knew him to join in remembrance and kindly asks attendees to bring their favorite dish to share. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a charity of your choice.

The Garrison family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses at Centralia Hospital who provided exceptional care to Ken in his final days. Ken’s legacy of love, laughter, and tenacity will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him.