Phyllis Leseth in 1969 with the family car she and her husband Hubie had rosemaled by Laura Hoeg to support the Nordic Fest. Photo courtesy of her family.
Nordic Fest could not have found a more loving, dedicated or passionate "mother" than the one it had in the late Phyllis Leseth. The only woman among the Nordic Fest founders, Phyllis had already accumulated a lifetime of service to educational, cultural and community causes by the time she joined the founding team. Phyllis was also among the first women admitted to Luther College, making her a pioneer in her own right on several fronts. Phyllis led the way and set an example with a relaxed and warm spirit.
Having her car rosemaled to support Nordic Fest was one of hundreds of extra steps that just came naturally for Phyllis in support of her dear Decorah and her dear Nordic Fest. Among her many contributions, Phyllis operated in ceaseless publicity mode to bring more people to the first Nordic Fest than anyone could have imagined.
In a 1997 written interview, Phyllis recalled a particularly laugh-filled time that happened while she was president of the Nordic Fest Board during one of its early years:
"The year I was president, a surprising and exciting experience was in store when innovative and whimsical Dr. George Knudson led a Viking 'raid.' The Vikings stormed ashore from their ships (canoes) and captured me, burst into Vanberia, startling customers and laying hold of a fair damsel (not pre-arranged). They loaded us in canoes on their float and paraded us triumphantly and menacingly down Water Street. They assured me that the snake in the bottom of my canoe was a fake. Had I known it was actually alive, a screaming Nordic Fest president would have added unexpected drama to the parade - and probably scared the fierce Vikings out of their fur clothing!"
Thank you Phyllis, for your passion, dedication and beautiful spirit! Nordic Fest is approaching 50 years thanks to standing on the shoulders of giants, with you at the center!
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