For more than five decades, Mike Perron has been a dedicated businessman, public servant, and community leader whose commitment to Ville Platte and Evangeline Parish has left a lasting impact.

A graduate of trade school with a background in welding (1970–1971), Ray married the love of his life, Gwen Guillory Perron, in 1972. Together they have built a strong family, raising three children and enjoying the blessings of 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

That same year, Mike opened Perron’s Auto Body Repair Shop, where he served as owner and operator for over 30 years (1972–2003). Following the sale of his business, he continued serving the automotive community as Service Manager at T&J Ford from 2003 until his retirement in 2011.

Mike’s passion for serving others extends well beyond his professional career. He devoted 33 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Ville Platte Fire Department and now proudly holds the title of Honorary Fireman in recognition of his dedicated service.

His commitment to civic leadership includes serving as a Ville Platte City Councilman from April 2006 through December 2022, where he worked to improve the quality of life for local residents. Since 2019, he has also served as Master of Ceremonies for KVPI at Fred’s Lounge and as co-host of La Tasse de Café, helping preserve and celebrate the region’s rich Cajun culture.

Mike has long been active in numerous civic and charitable organizations. He served as President of Woodmen of the World Lodge 420 in Ville Platte for 22 years, and has held leadership positions with several community organizations, including the Parks and Recreation Board, Evangeline Community Action, and the Swamp Pop Museum, where he served as chairman for six years. He continues his service today as a board member of Village de Memoire and Chateau des Amis.

Throughout his life, Mike Perron has exemplified dedication, integrity, and a genuine love for his community. Whether through public office, volunteer service, business leadership, or preserving the culture and history of Evangeline Parish, his legacy is one of selfless service and unwavering commitment to the people of Ville Platte.

Ville Platte Rotary - 7-21-26

At Tuesday's Rotary Club Meeting, Ville Platte Fire Chief Chris Soileau updated the Club on the Fire Department's activities. The Ville Platte Fire Department was formed in August 1920. This was the year following the dance hall tragedy in 1919. The original fire truck in Ville Platte was acquired in 1927. Prior to that, fires were extinguished using bucket brigades and packs fire fighters carried. Chief Soileau was excited to report that the historical fire truck is running, and they are getting it parade ready!

In 1935, there were 21 fire fighters. The Lincoln Rd. station was built in 1980. The city is close to having everything in place to begin construction of the new station to be located on Main St.

In the last six months, the department responded to 137 incidents - 41 in the district. They have tested 511 hydrants and evaluated thousands of feet of hose. They have installed fire detectors, because detectors provide the highest chance of surviving a fire.

The Fire Department is focused on fire fighter health and safety. Thank you, Chief Soileau, for a great presentation and for your dedication!

Other Rotary News
Rotarian Peter Strawitz was presented his pin recognizing him as a seven-time Paul Harris Fellow!

The next meeting will be held on July 28th, and the program will be presented by Pat Duplechain.