PETE THE GREEK
From the Re-Echo

Pete “the Greek” Ralles’ family was one of two Greek families living in St. Louis Park in the 1930’s.

Pete was a hard worker and also an entrepreneur. When he could not find work at Monitor Drill or the Republic Creosote plant, he bought a popcorn wagon and sold popcorn at various celebrations, including football games. Everyone in St. Louis Park knew Pete the Greek.

Pete had two sons, Ted and John, who were good athletes and active in both football and basketball. They both graduated from St. Louis Park High. John and his wife Lois were prominent in St. Louis Park business. John was a long time manager of McCarthy’s, a popular supper club located at Highway 12 ( now 394) and Highway 100. After that, he and Lois bought the Knollwood Liquor Store. Although both John and Lois are deceased, their family still runs the store.

John and Lois’ grandson, Steven, was recently selected to accompany Governor Pawlenty on his November trip to China. Steven was one of seven high school students picked from 79 applicants. He was chosen for scholastic achievement, effective communications, and leadership. Pete the Greek contended that he was not Greek but was an American that just happened to be born in Greece. He would have been extremely proud of his legacy.



 

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This information comes from a variety of sources: newspapers, books, yearbooks, phone directories, interviews, etc. Given the varied sources, we cannot guarantee that all of this information is correct, and welcome any additions and corrections. Please contact us with your contributions and comments.