This man really loved cars: The Dick Pellow Collection

Dick Pellow

They say that if you love what you do, you never work a day in your life. That saying was never truer than when it pertained to Dick Pellow. The world seemed to revolve around cars for Mr. Pellow, even from an early age. He was in love with the style, class and mechanics of those early cars. Growing up in Minneapolis, he saw many changes in automobiles throughout the years. His first job was as a switchman with the Great Northern Railway all while as a member of the Navy Reserve. Like many men of the time, he soon married in 1952 and children came soon after. Five children to be precise. Dick and his wife Jean were kept busy. Getting a little restless, he decided to test his mechanical skills on the pit-crew for the Daytona 500 for his friend Bernie Hentges.

Dick and his wife bought a Body shop in 1960 and soon adding towing to the business after purchasing Milt’s Towing. The towing business would soon be the start of his legacy and additional businesses. He started Twin Cities Towing, Twin Cities Salvage Pool, and Twin Cities Wrecker. His experience and demeanor of a true “Blue Collar” guy, made him a leader in the industry. In the 1980’s, he was critical part in the towing and body shop arena and was the founder of Minnesota Professional Towing Association(MPTA). Dick was also instrumental in starting and working with the Towing and Recovery Association of America. His leadership in the industry granted him the privilege of being inducted into the Towing Hall of Fame in 1987. The businesses that he built are now being run by his daughter Renee and son Rodney. Dick’s business legacy continues with a new generation.

With his accomplishments in the industry and working with many businesses and people, he decided to run for the Minnesota State legislature. “People for Pellow” was his slogan. Dick worked hard for the people of his district from 1989-'92 and again in 1995 and '96. His business adventures helped him to pursue his passion for old cars. His kids say there wasn’t a car that he didn’t like. They all had their own characteristics. The 1935 Ford Cabriolet in the auction, is the first car that he bought and restored. Soon many others followed and are included in the auction.

With his children also included in his businesses, they found themselves with their own love for automobiles. There were present on many trips to Chickasaw, Oklahoma along with trips to the Hershey Swap Meet and others.

Dick and his family were instrumental in the start of the New London, MN to New Brighton, MN tour. They went door to door encouraging people along the route to cheer on the race and to enjoy all the old cars. The 1910 Buick Model 14 along with the Overland, and 1905 Cadillac all are proven touring cars on this run.

Dick enjoyed his collection, the automotive hobby, and the friends he gained in the industry and hobby until he passed away in 2019. Now the family will sell his entire collection at auction to the highest bidder. VanDerBrink Auctions will sell the approx. 50 vehicles, memorabilia, many parts, and even his shop equipment on June 26^th, 2021 at his museum in St. Paul, MN. This will be a LIVE ONSITE Auction with Online bidding for vehicles and memorabilia. The parts and shop equipment will be for onsite bidders only. There are so many fabulous and rare cars in the collection including a 1911 Krit, 1928 Cretors Popcorn Truck, Many early cars with proven touring history. A beautiful 1936 Hudson Terraplane Custom 6 Convertible is 1 of 6 known left in the world. The collection has signs, brass lights, and other unique items. The family and VanDerBrink Auctions want you to come and join them in the celebration of the Pellow collection and bid on these fabulous vehicles and more. This is a treasure of St. Paul and you won’t want to miss this auction. For catalog, video, info, and more auctions www.vanderbrinkauctions.com . See you at the Auction or bid online.

VanDerBrink Auctions, LLC
1847 80th Ave.
Hardwick, MN 56134
Phone: 507-673-2517
Cell:605-201-7005
Fax: 507-673-0024
E-Mail: yvette@vanderbrinkauctions.com