Kenny Lance Harrison

Kenny Lance Harrison passed away on March 31, 2026, at the age of 83. Known best In Walla Walla for his founding of the Abeja Inn and Abeja Winery, he left behind a legacy of thoughtful projects and philanthropy. Raised in Westfir, Oregon, he attended Oregon State University where he earned a Master's Degree in Psychology, Sociology and Education in 1966.

Ken served as Chairman and CEO of Portland General Electric and remained in Oregon until his retirement in 2000. After relocating to Walla Walla, he and his wife, Ginger, purchased the estate now known as Abeja. They meticulously restored and updated every original farm building on the property, simultaneously planting and cultivating vineyards with the ultimate goal of establishing a world-class winery.

Ken and Ginger have participated and donated to countless causes in the region, including the Blue Mountain Humane Society, Power House Theatre, and the Marcus Whitman Hotel. Although Ken struggled with health issues in the last few years, he continued in business, retaining a minority interest in Abeja. Most recently, he and Ginger established a generous fund with the Blue Mountain Community Foundation and have applied to develop the MC Gateway project, an urban planned community in the city of Walla Walla.

Ken is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ginger; their two children, Mathew and Heather; two granddaughters, July and Jasper; and so many friends, colleagues and employees who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Ken's memory with a donation to the Kenny and Ginger Harrison Foundation via the Blue Mountain Community Foundation's website.