Milton Perlmutter, 1955
Co-founder of Pathmark & Shop-Rite supermarkets.
(Deceased) Milton Perlmutter graduated in the January 1945 class of Weequahic High School. He was described in his yearbook, “As one of those mild and modest fellows, whose presence is always felt because of the well-meaning, sentient quality of his speech. A spark of what makes him amiable and pleasing.” In his too short life, he continued to maintain these qualities.
First and foremost, Milton was the most loving and caring husband and father. In his business career he went on to become President and chief executive officer of Supermarkets General Corporation which included Pathmark and ShopRite supermarkets, Rickel Home Centers, Steinbachs, Hochschild-Kohn department stores and Value House Catalog stores.
He was an active leader in food industry and community affairs. He served as President of the Food Marketing Institute. In the community he served as President of The Jewish Federation of Greater Metrowest and Congregation B’nai Jeshurun currently located in Short Hills.
Milton was enthusiastic and devoted in his support of the State of Israel. In a thank you letter to him, Prime Minister Menahem Begin describes Milton as a “successful and respected leader in the American business community with a strong commitment to his people.” It goes on to say, “It is because of men like Milton Perlmutter that Israel has been able to lay the foundation for its economic development[.]“
Milton devoted his support both in secondary and higher education. He served as a trustee on the boards of the Pingry School and Rutgers University. His keen mind, exceptional executive ability and broad range of interests enabled him to serve on the boards of major food and utility companies.
The qualities which generated the respect and affection felt for Milton were perhaps best expressed by Rabbi Ely Pilchik in his eulogy: “Whatever Milton touched, he illuminated. Whomever Milton touched, he lifted up up.”