Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors

1010 Bering Drive

Houston, Texas

William Perlmutter Obituary

William Martin "Bill" Perlmutter, devoted husband, doting dad, realtor, mortgage broker, property manager, volunteer fireman, paramedic, volunteer helper, and consummate man of action, died Friday, the 31st of May 2013.
Bill ran at full speed until very shortly before cancer inconveniently cut short his many activities. His on-the-go pace astounded everyone around him. At the heart of his personality was an endearing impatience that, in the end, enabled him to live far more life than the 62 calendar years he was with us. Before his many endeavors, he graduated from Bellaire High School, served in the US Coast Guard, and earned his Bachelor's Degree from Houston Baptist University.
Notwithstanding these achievements, most will remember Bill for his huge heart, continually extending himself for the benefit of others. So many have stories of Bill's taking time away from his business responsibilities to repair a car, unstick a door, fix a toilet, rescue a flooding victim-even build houses for Habitat for Humanity. The extraordinary lengths he went to help others didn't seem unusual to Bill; it's just what he did. It was how he showed his love for so many people.
But his highest calling is surely his devotion to his two different, yet amazing daughters, Maggie his princess, Celeste, his protégé, and to Marjorie, his wife and one true love and companion. He gave to each just what they needed from him.
In addition to Marjorie, Maggie, and Celeste, Bill is survived by his son-in-law, Louis Gershen; granddaughter, Maggie Gershen; brother, Mark; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service is to be conducted at one o'clock in the afternoon on Tuesday, the 4th of June, at Bethel Church, 825 Bering Drive in Houston, where Dr. Dwain Camp, Interim Pastor, is to officiate. Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception at a venue to be announced at the service. Please come to the services with your favorite "Bill story" to share with each other or all of us. We know you all have one.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to The Life Center for the Homeless, P.O. Box 10556, Houston, TX, 77206.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Houston Chronicle on Jun. 3, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for William Perlmutter

Sponsored by His Protégé & his Princess.

Not sure what to say?





Linda Kay Beaver

May 28, 2025

Still miss this guy who was always always upbeat and a joy to be around.

Lloyd Stewart

June 26, 2014

I'm 62 now, but when I was about 18-19, I assisted one "Bill Perlmutter" in teaching a scuba class. I also went on a trip to Cozumel back then in the late 60's/early 70's and he went too. Is this the same guy? If so, I'm so sorry to hear of his death. Good guy.

Keith Molkenthin

June 9, 2014

I met Bill back in 1987. He helped me buy my first house when I was only 19 years old. He patiently helped me through the entire process AND helped me after the sale. It wasn't just a sale and move on. He checked in on me and was always available if I had a question. It has been many years, I was sad to see this when I Googled him. Mr. Perlmutter was an awesome professional gentleman.

Julie and Tom Laird

August 1, 2013

I only had the pleasure of meeting Bill one time--many,many years ago, but it was over a pitcher of margaritas and an evening my husband, Tom, and I will never forget. His wife, Marjorie, was an old friend and college roommate of mine at Texas Tech, and we were visiting Houston. It was a delight to get to meet him--all the postings I've read said "funny" or "quirky" or "enthusiastic"--and that made him a perfect fit for Marjorie. We had great fun visiting that night. We are heartbroken for Marjorie and her girls--a life ended way too soon. I hope they draw comfort from all the kind words I read here about Bill. We send love and prayers to the whole family.

Sky Pulford

June 27, 2013

BILL WAS AN UNFORGETABLE HUMAN BEING.
KNOWING BILL WAS LIKING BILL
AS A FELLOW REALTOR WE CROSSED PATHS MANY MANY TIMES THROUGHOUT THE LAST 25 YEARS.
HIS ENTHUSIASM FOR LIVE WAS CONTAGIOUS.
HIS PASSION FOR REAL ESTATE WAS RELENTLESS AND
HIS LOVE OF FAMILY WAS HIS MOST OUTSTANDING QUALITY.
I WILL MISS YOU BUDDY.
YOU ARE AWESOME.
SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE.

Peggie Kohnert

June 22, 2013

I have been out of town and just saw that Bill died in the little local paper. I was shocked and so sad to hear about it. I am a Realtor and knew him through real estate and worked with him on deals over the years. He was always a pleasure to work with and was always so nice and helpful. My deepest sympathy to his family. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.

CRS Houston 2010 Bill as water boy on our Habitat build day

Veronica Mullenix

June 12, 2013

I met Bill through the local Council of Residential Specialists Chapter here in Houston. When I was the Director of our Chapter's Houston Region Bill was one of my officers, the Chairman of Chapter With a Heart. So fitting of him!! He DID give our CRS Houston Region "Heart" and he rallied all of our CRS Realtor members to build for Habitat for Humanity for many years. I learned so much from him! I miss him!

Hamish&Kat Nicol

June 10, 2013

Gosh this was such sad news to hear!
Bill was our friend and very much loved next door neighbor for almost 12 years.
Such a kind and selfless man, Bill gave so much of himself to the Houston community as all have said. Sometimes life robs us of the very best amongst us. We had a lot of fun and our boys loved Bill too. Memories of the birthday ride in the engine and the fire house party are still vivid. It's a tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with Marjorie and family.

Mike Stroman

June 9, 2013

I haven't seen Bill in years, but had great times with him 44 years ago when he taught me to scuba dive. I was 11 at the time, and he was kind enough to take me to dive around Texas.

I know he will be missed by all who knew him and I'm so pleased to have called him my friend.

Christine Harris

June 8, 2013

Bill could brighten a day like no other person I've ever known. Always the true optimist, willing to help everyone, encouraging and positive. I knew him for 20 years when we worked together in real estate sales. He was one of a kind and I will really miss him. It's a shock to hear he's gone. My condolenses to Margie, Maggie and Celeste.

Keith Guillory

June 7, 2013

I received a call from Bill a couple of months ago. I had not spoken with Bill in years. Bill wanted me to have this Platter that you served fish on. Bill new of my love to smoke salmon from the days we were colleagues at RE/MAX Executives. I was very moved by the gesture. May God Bless You Bill and I will keep the Permuller Family in my prayers.

Linda Kay Beaver

June 6, 2013

I had been out of town and after returning read the obit in the Chronicle and was so saddened to hear of Bill passing. He was one of the most endearing people I have ever had the pleasure to know.

Deborah Schnarr

June 5, 2013

We just heard this news. We want to extend our condolences to the family and will keep all in our prayers. God bless.

LR Trotter

June 5, 2013

In the mid '80s while working in the Ready-Mix Concrete Industry, I went to a construction site after a hard rain that was now a drizzle to supervise a delivery. The person in charge greeted me wearing a very nice suit, with rubber boots to navigate the mud, and carrying an umbrella to stay dry. Quite a character, but a true gentleman. I believe his name was Bill Perlmutter. He will be missed. RIP.

June 5, 2013

I had the pleasure to work with Bill on a real estate transaction. He was always pleasant and in good spirit. He was a wonderful person and I am blessed to have met him. My condelences to his family and friends.

Jane Webb

June 5, 2013

I met Bill through CCEMS and he always had a smile and a hug. He could brighten a long shift with a quiet word and add a small comment that brought a lightness to your heart. My deepest condolences to his family. His presence will always be with you, a part of you.

Beth Davis

June 4, 2013

Bill was kind enough to hire me for my first summer job when I came back home from college. He was such a kind, generous and warm hearted man, who taught me a lot that summer. Words cannot express how happy I am to have gotten to know Bill and greatful for the experience I gained under his supervision. My thoughts and prayers are with the Perlmutter Family.

Benjamin Duggan

June 4, 2013

Bill was friends with my parents and I for as long as I can remember. I will always remember Bill as someone who dedicated his time to helping others. From working on our cars when they broke down to spending time helping cook the Thanksgiving meals our families shared. I will always miss his kind words and kind heart. Marjorie, Celeste, Maggie, I am so sorry for your loss.

Jim Bauknight

June 4, 2013

We worked hard together on Waco Street (Habitat Home) built by Houston Association of Realtors. This building experience is something I will always treasure. Bill was one heck of a nice Prince. As they say, "thy will be done".

Penny Holcomb

June 4, 2013

I knew Bill through real estate. He was in the Tex Relocation Net group with me for several years. When I moved into the Rice University area he encouraged me to donate the house we were demolishing to the West U volunteer fire department for a fire drill. Later, he made arrangements for my two grandchildren to visit the West U fire station. When my sons went into real estate, he welcomed them and offered his help and support. He was a quiet, gentle giant; and I and many others will miss him. Sincerely, Penny Holcomb

Matthew Bailey

June 4, 2013

I only worked with Bill a few times on the ambulance but that was enough to learn that he was a kind and giving man who genuinely cared for others. My deepest sympathy to his family for their loss.

Kerry Bloom DDS

June 4, 2013

I read all of these wonderful stories and condolences for my oldest friend Billy. We were born the same year, lived across from each other for our childhood years. Adele, Bernie, and Mark were my second family. We enjoyed sports(Bill was Lumpy) building things, selling clear tape, going up the intercoastal canal in Bernies boat at night, and just being there to discuss the day. Bill was always building something, so it was easy to find him. After college, I saw little of Bill and Margie, but always enjoyed the renewed catchup of the families. I know that all of us will miss our dear friend. Love, Kerry Bloom

Sarajane Eisen

June 3, 2013

Bill lived a truly exemplary life in his genuine love and giving to his fellow man. As a cousin by marriage, and a devoted friend by choice, Bill will be lovingly remembered by me for the countless support he provided my Uncle Charles, going through and after his lung transplant. Bill's life will serve as an inspiring legacy of a 'life well lived' and he will be so greatly missed. I am so sorry I cannot be there to 'celebrate' Bill's life - with loving thoughts and prayers -

Cynthia and Joe Taylor

June 3, 2013

I loved knowing Bill when we lived in Houston and went to Bethel! When everyone else had left the parking lot after an event, he was still busy packing up the leftovers to take them to a homeless shelter. His service for the Lord was always done behind the scenes for the glory of The Lord. People all over Houston will probably be finding out all the things Bill did on a daily basis because only now will they realize when things aren't happening "behind the scenes." He was a great whirlwind of a man who made a huge impression on me. Marjorie, Celeste, and Maggie, I am so sorry that he is gone, but am thankful for the knowledge we have that we will all spend eternity together.

Scott Stone

June 3, 2013

Very sorry to learn of Bill's death, he was an outstanding individual. Years ago we were both involved in land tracts, he had done extensive research on the East side of Houston.
I was a broker with the Henry S. Miller Co. I had known his parents for years and thought a lot of them, never realized his connection . I ended up working with the F.D.I.C. and later moved back to Alabama in 1992 as a County Bank President. We send our sympathy to the family. It is always difficult to lose a good friend.

June 3, 2013

Bill, you will always be remembered in our thoughts when we use your yellow screwdriver that you so faithfully made sure everyone at Cypress Creek had. It became the Perlmutter Driver to many of us here. You always were very kind, and would give 100% while you were on the truck- no matter what time of the morning. God Bless.

Ben Pfeffer

June 3, 2013

My Condolences to Bill's family. In reading the comments I feel that the summary is BILL WILL BE MISSED. I have known Bill since were were barely teenagers, even took a scuba diving class with him. Over the years we have cross path in the profession of our parents. It was always a great pleasure to be involved with Bill and to have known him. He will be greatly missed.

Deah Burnham

June 3, 2013

There aren't words to express the gratitude and love I have for Bill. He touched so many lives including mine. Him and his family will always hold a very special part of my heart.

Lucy Hood

June 3, 2013

Helping as a peramedic in VBS, the LifeHouse homeless sheltter, helping in Honduras, finding us a home or selling one, serving our country, firefighting You have added to all our lives Bill Thank you for your humble servant hood ! We already miss you !

Eric Frost

June 3, 2013

I took an EMS-related class with Bill a few years ago. His kindness and his genuine concern for others really left an impression.

Terry Jeanes

June 3, 2013

Our REMAX office hallway was always a buzz as Bill and I were across the hall from one another,even sharing an assistant who blossomed being in Bill's presence as well. Margie, Maggie, Celeste - may the memories wrap you like a comforting blanket.

Kathy Burton

June 3, 2013

My condolences to Celeste (and Louis), and to your mom and sister. I'm sorry I'm not in Houston to see you and support you at this difficult time. Bill sounds like a wonderful man and a great father.

Christine Springfield

June 3, 2013

I will remember Bill's strong, steady presence on scene as well as his smile and interest in getting to know our patients. Not many spend the time and attention to others like Bill did. Bill enriched the lives of many through his volunteer work at Cypress Creek EMS. We will miss having him on the ambulance. Rest in Peace, Bill.

June 3, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the Perlmutter family, may the thought and prayers of relatives and friends gives you all encouragement and may God gives you all comfort and strenght during this difficult time. 2 Cor. 1:4

De Love

June 3, 2013

May The Lord comfort all of you.. I know that He will be faithful to walk with you during this very sad and difficult time. I'm sure George was one of the first to welcome Bill home and that they will be working on our mansions together.

Douglas Stevenson

June 3, 2013

Bill was just in my pharmacology class in March to get his National Registry Paramedic renewal completed. A great student and friend. He never took a short cut and always strove to learn to be the best paramedic he could be at all times. His leadership and experience were good examples for our new paramedic students at Alvin Community College. He will be sorely missed but his legacy will continue on forever.

Ed & Tara White

June 3, 2013

Sorry to learn of Bill's passing. Tara and Maggie where at Ms. Wagners together, back in the day.

Colin Rowley

June 3, 2013

My family was ministered to by Bill. What a blessing he was to us and a light of Christ's love and service to all he came in contact with.

Annie Duggan

June 3, 2013

Bill was the single most active, helpful and quirky man I knew. He was such a good family friend always coming to the rescue when we needed anything. I'll never forget the time he fixed my dad's car and every time the wheel turned left the horn would honk. You will be very missed Bill and always remembered.

Gia Thomas

June 3, 2013

My condolences to Bill's wife and children and rest of his family. As I told his daughter Celeste, I have so many memories of driving around looking at properties with Bill. He was the most knowledgeable, hard-working, dedicated real estate agent I've ever met. He was also caring and funny and he talked about his family often. I am glad I live far from Houston now. Can't imagine looking for another property there without Bill. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

June 3, 2013

Dolly Morrow Altgelt
Mr.and Mrs. George R. Dullnig

Glenda Ricks

June 3, 2013

Thank You for all that you did in helping me get a loan to buy out my brother. You were a great help to me, and you will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of sorrow. So sorry for your loss.

Holly Brant

June 3, 2013

Bill took the kids for a ride in the fire truck and they will always remember how fun he was!
Our prayers for comfort go out to Marjorie and family.
Love, Randy and Holly Brant

The Life Center

June 3, 2013

The Life Center

June 3, 2013

Jeremy Boucher

June 3, 2013

Matthew 5:14

14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

We love you Bill - The Boucher Family

June 3, 2013

Dear Marjorie and family, We are saddened to hear of Bill's passing, but we remember a Godly man whose love of The Lord made him a joy to those who knew him. Bryan and Pat Dawson

Bob Bewley

June 3, 2013

This big ole world is a much better place because of the Love and Practical Care that Bill gave to so many! What a funny guy he was! Never without a smile! May God comfort the Perlmutter family in the coming days, weeks and months ahead!

Curtiss Lanham

June 3, 2013

I was very blessed and honored to have Bill attend a Paramedic Refresher course I taught at Alvin Community College. Bill was the consummate gentleman and certainly a testimony to the volunteer spirit. I am honored to have crossed paths and to have shared EMS with him.

Bill Teer

June 3, 2013

My sincerest condolences to the family. I worked for your Dad when you & Mark were born and you two were the light of their and your Grandpa's lives. May your family find strength beyond what is normal to get them through their terrible loss.

Dennis and Susan Malcolm

June 3, 2013

Dear Marjorie, Maggie and Celeste, We're so sorry to hear of your loss of your wonderful husband and father. Our hearts and prayers are with you at this time. We pray for God's peace and comfort for your family.

Cindy Craft

June 3, 2013

You were one in a million, Bill. We will always appreciate your kindness when we bought and sold our home. You will certainly be missed.

Toby Myers

June 3, 2013

His parents, Bernie and Adele, were back door neighbors when they lived on Maroneal. As a teen, Bill was talented at fixing things and filled in a wall for us that had been a cutout for a tv set. He was a delightful youngster who, though privileged, knew how to get his hands dirty. I have not seen him in many years, send my Bill story, and extend condolences to his family.

PHIL ODOM

June 3, 2013

SEMPER FI - FELLOW VETERAN
THANK YOU - FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY.
You are one of our heroes.
We will remember you always and miss you dearly.
Take your Warrior's rest for a duty well done.

I wish to extend to members of your family my deepest sympathy on their loss. May the force of GOD be with them as they walk through this difficult time. May the loving promises of our LORD and Savior comfort them and give them strength.

As a grateful Veteran, I leave my sympathy and hope you accept this as a small token of appreciation for the honorable and faithful service rendered by your loved one to our Country.

SEMPER FI
U. S. MARINE AND VIET NAM VET

Showing 1 - 55 of 55 results

Make a Donation
in William Perlmutter's name

Memorial Events
for William Perlmutter

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors

1010 Bering Drive, Houston, TX 77057

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Perlmutter's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more