For nearly four decades, Steve Perry has been a cornerstone of Knapp & Schlappi Lumber Co., a respected family business built on hard work, customer care, and community spirit. His career began in 1986 with a simple phone call from Peggy Knapp, inviting him to join the company. What started as a hands-on role in the yard—loading trucks, making deliveries, and helping customers—became a lifelong vocation rooted in integrity, service, and family tradition.
Steve Perry (Knapp & Schlappi Lumber) receives the Industry Excellence Award. WNYLDA VP Pam Bliss (Elitsac Lumber) and son Dale Perry (Knapp & Schlappi), presenting.
After several years learning every corner of the business, Steve’s father-in-law, Peter Schlappi, recognized his work ethic and potential, inviting him inside to the sales counter. From there, Steve took on new challenges, eventually managing purchasing for the company’s commodities division and becoming a partner in the business. Through every stage of growth, he stayed grounded in the simple belief that relationships—both with customers and colleagues—are what truly sustain success.
As Steve puts it, “great people” have surrounded him throughout his career. From outside and inside sales representatives to managers and CEOs, he credits the individuals he’s worked alongside for helping him grow both personally and professionally. His mentors, Peter Schlappi and Willie Knapp, taught him not only the lumber and hardware trade but also the importance of caring for customers, maintaining a clean and organized store, and leading with fairness and respect. Together, their vision and example helped build Knapp & Schlappi Lumber from a small sawmill in 1958 into the thriving business it is today.
Steve Perry’s family at the event to celebrate the occasion!
A dedicated community leader, Steve has served in multiple civic and professional roles, including president and chairman of the board of directors for Genesee Reserve (2010–2019), where he continues to serve as a board member today. He is also a member of the Town Council and former Town Supervisor for the Town of Barrington, as well as a member of the Advisory Board for the Lyons National Bank in Penn Yan since 2010.
Steve is a proud 1981 graduate of Dundee Central School and completed BOCES training in auto mechanics. His dedication to continual learning and self-improvement reflects the same drive that has guided his nearly 40-year career in the industry.
Outside of work, Steve’s life is defined by family and simple joys. He married his high school sweetheart, Tammy, in 1984, and together they’ve built a strong, loving family and lasting partnership. Tammy’s own success as the owner of a local hair salon for nearly 40 years stands as a testament to their shared work ethic and commitment. They raised three children—Brent, Dale, and Leah—each of whom has built successful careers and families of their own. Today, Steve and Tammy are the proud grandparents of seven grandchildren—George, Carolyn, Audrey, Josie, Charlie, Harlow, and Miley—who bring endless pride and joy.
A lifelong outdoorsman and competitor, Steve enjoys hunting on his family property and has a passion for stock car racing, having earned 24 feature wins and two championships at Dundee Speedway (now Outlaw Speedway) between 1980 and 2005. He also bowled competitively, rolling a perfect 300 game in 1999.
Steve’s philosophy is simple and powerful: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” It’s a principle he’s lived by every day at Knapp & Schlappi, earning the respect of customers, colleagues, and his community alike.
The Western New York Lumber Dealers Association proudly recognizes Steve Perry of Knapp & Schlappi Lumber Co. with the 2025 Industry Excellence Award.
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