Christopher "Len" Ayres, 66, a resident of Kennewick for 32 years, passed away on June 29th, 2009 . He was born April 21st, 1943 in Missoula, Montana.

Len enlisted in the United States Navy in 1961 after graduating from Helena High School. He was stationed in the Philippines, Whidbey Island and Kodiak, Alaska. After his service in the Navy he returned to Helena where he met the love of his life, Priscilla Morrell. They married December 26th, 1965 and continued to live and work in Helena and Missoula until relocating to Kennewick in 1977. He worked for Safeway and then for IGA in Kennewick for 13 years until his retirement in 1992.

Len enjoyed his time with his family, grandchildren and friends. Len and Priscilla enjoyed traveling, going to the Wildhorse Casino, and watching their grandchildren play in sporting events. Len was proud of his family and their accomplishments. His family was the center of his life. His amazing laughter and strong handshake will be missed by everyone who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Cleona and Eugene Ayres of Helena, MT and his beloved dog, Holly.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years Priscilla "Pretty"; children: Lori Terwilliger, Bill Nancy Ayres, Lisa Brock Zucker, Lenda Scott Linschoten, Lenny Jennifer Ayres, Troy Amy Ayres, Jeff Angela Ayres. grandchildren: Christopher, Deserea, William, Cade, Bryson, Lendsey, Ashlen, Garrett and Clayten. Brothers: Bob Arlene Ayres and Rusty Susan Ayres. In-Laws: Susan Larry Krug and special friends Bud Shaw and Tod Kreutz

Services will be held Thursday, July 2nd at 11:00 A.M. at South Hills Baptist Church 3700 W. 27th Ave. Kennewick, Wa with a reception to follow.

At families request in lieu of flowers donations can be made in Len Ayres' name to Alzheimer's Assoc-Inland Northwest Chapter - 910 W. 5th Ave Ste 256, Spokane, WA 99204. 509-473-3390; www.inwalz.org