Company History Perr Truck body was founded in 1954 by Frank Perr. He started in a small shop on Elston Ave. in Chicago. He outgrew the shop and bought some land newly available as a result of a new tollway (I-90). At the time, it was the super boonies. Frank operated the company in its' current location until he decided to retire and go fishing.(He had two Lake Michigan fishing yaughts) He started the sale process in 1979, and his first deal fell through. Tony and Bill Slivka finally approached him, and put a deal together. They officially took over in 1984.
Personal history.
Tony and Bill assimilated into the truck business at a very early age. Father Ray was a successful, well known InternationalTruck Franchisee in the 50's through middle 70's.
Tony inherited Dad's mechanical ability, Bill his business sense. Both worked in the family business from a very young age. After stints in college, Tony and Bill joined the company full time.
When the truck dealership outgrews it's Des Plaines roots, the old location was kept and reassigned as a truck body facility and frame repair center, with Tony And Bill at the helm. They remained there for twelve years honing their business and technical skills.
Photo: Tony seated, Bill...not
Have you seen the sign on the front of our building?
FROM 1984... TO THE PRESENT
In 1984, Tony and Bill decided the time was right to forge their own way. A decision was reached to approach Frank, a long time family friend and acquaintance
After four months of negotiations, Tony and Bill took over the reigns on May 1st, 1984. It's been an interesting run, and the company has evolved handily to respond to many, varied customer needs.
WE LOVE TRUCKS... As you can tell from above, its' what we've always done. We always have a sense of pride when one rolls out the door, because we know we've made it a little better. We've returned it where it belongs, on the road. Corny? Yes, but when you do what you love, the effort shows. We collect trucks.( come by and check out the 1971 International pickup with 175 original miles,) we restore trucks for fun, and trucks are our preferred method of transportation.
2211 SOUTH MOUNT PROSPECT RD. DES PLAINES, IL 60018 PHONE: 847-824-8163 FAX: 847-824-7432E-mail customer service now
