The Gift to the World of Pokey Pete


Ernest "Pokey Pete" Petersen brought his beautiful red train for children to ride to nearly 25 Nordic Fests in Decorah. He started attending based on a handshake with Gary Svenson, who brought fellow Nordic Fest founder Harry Olson with him to Cedar Falls to ask Pokey to start joining Nordic Fest to ensure there were more options at the event for children.

When Pokey retried, he gifted one of his trains to the Decorah Lions Club, who still lovingly care for the train and continue to share it with children at Nordic Fest. 

Pokey Pete's legacy of giving is inspired and almost unsurpassed. A 30-minute YouTube video that explores his legacy may be viewed here. 

That initial handshake created a special bond between the Petersen and Svenson family. In this approximately 1982 photo, DiAnn expresses the warmth, love and affection for Pokey that echoes the feelings of the countless lives he touched with his rides, philanthropy and beautiful spirit. 

Pokey Pete remains a tremendous gift to the world. 

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