William Needleman

NEEDLEMAN, William “Bill” George- of Peabody, formerly of Salem and Marblehead, entered into rest on June 17, 2017 at the age of 102. Bill was born in 1915 in Boston’s West End to the late Morris and Fanny Needleman. Following high school, he enlisted in the US Army and fought in WWII and the Normandy Invasion. After being discharged from the Army, Bill worked in the fur business and then was a supervisor for the US Postal Service. He says his life began at age 42 when he met and married his beloved wife of 59 years, Betty (Bernstein) Needleman. Upon his retirement, William built a successful real estate career selling condominiums and real estate in the North Shore. Bill and Betty enjoyed being snowbirds for 18 years in Florida, where many friendships were formed. Bill was a longtime time member of Temple Sinai of Marblehead, where he was involved in the Brotherhood and was a minyanaire. At 102 he still lived a very spirited life, his temple being his second home for many years. He could be described by his family and friends as a true mensch, someone whose spirit shined bright anytime he entered a room. When he was asked how he lived such a full life, even into his later years, his answer was always his family. In addition to his beloved wife, Bill is survived by his loving daughter Marla Kovner of Salem. Proud and loving “Papa” of Zachary Kovner and Karli Kovner. Loving brother of Sophie Fritz of MD and the late Robert, Joseph and Stanley. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and longtime friends. Funeral services will be held at Stanetsky-Hymanson Memorial Chapel, 10 Vinnin St., Salem, MA on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at 11AM. Interment will be held at Sharon Memorial Park, 40 Dedham St., Sharon, MA. Shiva will be observed following the burial on Tuesday at The Village of Vinnin Square Clubhouse, 200 Loring Hills Ave., Salem, MA. Shiva will continue on Wednesday at The Garden Kitchen at The Kaplan Estates, 240 Lynnfield St., Peabody, MA, from 2-4PM and 6-8PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) 60 Walnut St., #2, Wellesley, MA 02481.