Roger Tofte, the founder of Oregon’s Enchanted Forest theme park, died peacefully on Friday at the age of 96, his family announced. Tofte’s passing marks the end of an era for the beloved roadside attraction, which has delighted generations of Oregonians since it opened in 1971.
Born in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin and raised primarily in Astoria, Oregon, Tofte purchased the 20-acre plot of land that would become Enchanted Forest in 1964 for $4,000, funds accumulated from repairing watches and working as a draftsman for the State Highway Division. Construction began immediately, a seven-year endeavor largely undertaken by Tofte himself.
The park officially opened on August 8, 1971, welcoming 75 visitors on its first day. Tofte meticulously hand-built the park’s original attractions, including Snow White’s castle, Western Town, English Village, and Storybook Lane. These whimsical creations, born from his own vision and craftsmanship, quickly established Enchanted Forest as a unique destination.
“He built this from nothing and everybody thought he was absolutely crazy,” said Tofte’s daughter, Susan Vaslev, who co-manages the park with her sister. “We feel really blessed working in the park — because we’ll be surrounded by him every day.”
Over the years, Enchanted Forest expanded to include the European Village, amusement rides, a haunted house, a log flume, and a miniature train, all while retaining Tofte’s distinctive hand-painted aesthetic. He continued to be involved in the park’s operations well into his nineties, demonstrating a dedication that became his hallmark.
Tofte’s life wasn’t without hardship. In September 2020, he experienced the profound loss of his 13-year-old great-grandson, Wyatt, and Wyatt’s grandmother, Peggy Mosso, in the Beachie Creek Fire. The Tofte family publicly shared their grief and the challenges of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic while striving to keep the park afloat, crediting the community’s support for their resilience.
According to a Facebook post from the park, Tofte “took great care to pass his knowledge, craftsmanship, and vision on to his children and grandchildren, long before his passing, ensuring a thoughtful transition of Enchanted Forest into the hands of the next generations.” The family intends to continue operating the park, preserving Tofte’s legacy for future visitors.
