Bobby Perna began playing 16″ softball when he was fourteen years old in park leagues at Sheridan, Garfield, and Riis. In 1954, after being noticed by some older players, Bobby was asked to play on one of Chicago’s great teams – Kool Vent Awnings. He played with Kool Vent off and on for three years. While with Kool Vent, Bobby developed a reputation as a long ball hitter who hit many tape measure home runs. He played outfield and was known for having great speed and a rocket arm. From 1958 to 1960 Bobby played with Interstate Motors, playing against such legendary players and Hall of Fame members as Eddie Zolna, Bobby Lamont, and Tony Reibel. He developed a reputation as a clutch home run hitter in money games. In 1959 Interstate Motors won the Championship at Kells Park on a last inning three run home run by Bobby Perna. At the ripe old age of 21, Bobby decided to retire from softball to pursue his first love – music. He is currently one of Chicago’s great jazz musicians, playing local clubs and such national venues as the Arie Crown Theater in Chicago, the Rosemont Theatre in Rosemont, and Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. A resident of Schiller Park, Bobby Perna is married to his wife of 39 years, Angie. They have two children, Bobby Jr, and Deanna. They have four grandchildren.
