Perry’s connection to cars runs deep, but nothing compares to his lifelong bond with his beloved 1953 Ford Customline. He’s owned it since he was 16, and after more than five decades of moves, storage, dents, cows, (COWS!), and even falling tree limbs, the car is finally getting the restoration it deserves. And in a twist that stunned everyone, Perry recently found a donor car in the exact same color and model right here in Minnesota.

 

He still has the photo he took of the Ford at age 16 in 1973. Now, with a pristine donor body ready to go, Perry has the glass, the trim, the panels, and the dream lined up. The engine is already refreshed with barely 100 miles on it. 2026 is meant to be the year the legend rolls again.

 

Born and raised in small-town Minnesota (but “not on a farm!”), Perry eventually made his way to the Twin Cities. A former engineering and shop teacher turned home-remodeling contractor, he’s just as comfortable talking about chrome trim as he is about drywall.

 

Perry joined the club in 2021 thanks to longtime friends Jeff and Gale, who have known him for over 30 years. And like many of our members, his garage tells a story:

 

• 1953 Ford Customline – His first car, a lifelong companion now embarking on a full, faithful restoration.
• 2002 Ford Ranger – Fresh from the body shop after a scrape.
• 2005 Lexus – His sometimes-loaner, currently out helping a friend.
• 2007 Chrysler Town & Country – The contractor’s Swiss Army knife; hauls tools, plywood, drywall, and seven contractors or friends when needed.

 

His second car, a Rambler with seats that folded flat (“exactly what every 17-year-old needs!”), carried friends, siblings, and even his brother’s whole football team. His coolest car? An ’83 Camaro Berlinetta with T-tops, gold decals, and only eight miles on it when he bought it new for his 25th birthday.

 

Perry’s dream cars? Think classic elegance: Auburn, Duesenberg, Cord, Bugatti, gleaming machines of the ’30s and ’40s.

 

As for the club, Perry’s commitment speaks volumes: he has personally purchased seven memberships to help new people get involved. “You feel welcomed. You belong here,” he says, and he means it.

 

And no Great Northern Region spotlight would be complete without a joke. He shared a multigenerational Ole & Lena story passed down through his mother’s bridge club… and let’s just say the punchline brought the room to tears (of laughter and maybe a little shock).

 

Perry, we can’t wait to see that ’53 Ford back on the road. Thanks for bringing generosity, joy, and one unforgettable restoration story to our club. 🚗✨