Petet Holmquist's first experience with crosscutting was working in the forest industry on the Pacific Coast in the mid 40's. Much like many people from the priaries, after the crops were harvested they migraated to the B.C. Coast. Where there was plenty of work in the forests and mills. 

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Peter competed in the sawing and chopping events at Hope B.C. in '46 to '48. After a serious falling accident he changed his vocation and worked as a sales for IEL chain saws. These were manufactured in Vancouver and marketed through the Purves sports. Peter made sure that every community that he was at got support, one way or another. 

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A few years later Peter formed his own company , Pacific Equipment. Chainsaws ere in very wide use around the province. Peter competed in many sawing events, handsaws, or chainsaws as well. He was good at it, and made sure that his company supported the sport at all levels. He was very prominent in supporting colleges and foresty schools. As well as many small town competitors who never had access to good equipment. 

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Peter competed widely, at many contect sites and exhibitions around the country. He won the prestigious World Championship in single sawing at Hayward Wisconsin in 1973. It was under his company's sponsorship that hosted the loggersports at the PNE in Vancouver. It went on for many years and was the showcase of our sport on this coast. If was well by many top competitors from around the world. 

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Peter was also very instrumental in the design of the chainsaws that were used here on the pacific coast. He lobbied the manufactures to build appropiate equipment that suited the demands presented by the size of the timber encountered. Engineers took his words seriously and they profited by his experience and advices. 

 

Peter sold his company and retired to Coquitlam with his family. He made a very strong effort to see our get the recognition and financial support that is always meeded. Peter was always a very friendly and congenial host. Making sure that everyone around his motor home got a taste of his famous "Swedish Meatballs" 

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Submitted: Alan Boyko

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