Perpall to retire as rec director

“The rec department has come so far under his leadership,” said Anthony Dove. “The day-in-day-out grind of running the department is difficult. And he’s done a great job maintaining the facilties and adding programs. You have to deal with so many factors. And at the same time, he’s been able to maintain the main focus of what it’s all about: the kids.”

Perpall said he’s seen plenty of changes over the years, with the rec facilities increasing from one park to four during his tenure.

While the look of the facilities has changed, the faces rarely change. The turnover rate at the recreation department among full-time staff has been very low. In fact, two of Perpall’s employees, Robin Pendleton and Grady Autry, have been with the department nearly as long as Perpall, with both joining the staff in 1984.

“It’s like a little family here,” said Perpall of the recreation staff. “Everybody is very dedicated.”

The rec leader also noted that many Madison County youth get their first work experience handling concessions and other part-time duties at the department. The director said the department has had “some great workers” and has a “good track record” in providing teens with their first taste of the working world.

Perpall said he’s thankful for the support the rec department has received from various chairmen and commissioners over the years.

“Recreation is not a high priority in some places,” said Perpall. “But they (the BOC) have always been supportive of us.”

The outgoing director said he’s enjoyed working with Madison County people, noting that it’s a particular joy to watch kids grow up playing ball, then have children of their own play at the rec facilities.

“Of course, it makes you feel a little old, but it’s neat to see the traditions carried on,” said Perpall.

Perpall lives on a Madison County farm with his wife Carol, who grew up on that farm. He says he plans to do more work around the farm, take on some furniture repair jobs, travel and spend time with his three grandkids – a fourth is on the way.

“I have a lot of hobbies so I won’t just be a sit on the porch person,” said Perpall.

Dove said Perpall will be hard to replace.

“I’m happy for him to enjoy retirment and wish him all God’s blessings,” said Dove. “But he will be tough to replace. You have to find that person who has the right temperment, who knows when to be firm and when to be caring.”

The chairman said the county will soon begin its search for Perpall’s successor.