A “legendary” trailblazing businessman with the Midas touch, who transformed a single real estate office into the Big Apple’s largest privately−owned and operated real estate firm, was immortalized with tears and cheers when his family and community dedicated the intersection of that first office, “Bill Reinhardt Way.”
A large and distinguished roster of local dignitaries and industry officials joined friends, business associates and relatives for a street co−naming ceremony at Fillmore and Flatbush avenues, where Reinhardt [1936−2005] established his business more than 40 years ago, and which is now run by his son, John.
Borough President Marty Markowitz dedicated the day – May 28 – to Reinhardt, a husband, father and grandfather, who enjoyed a glowing reputation as one of Brooklyn’s “most respected and beloved businessmen,” and was widely−admired for his leadership skills and warm, outgoing personality.
He was recalled as understanding “the importance of the American Dream of home ownership” and helping “thousands of New Yorkers” to achieve it.
A posting on Reinhardt’s blog, dated December 3, 2005, and left on the day of his death, pays the homage: “As I sit here sipping on a Scotch and water in honor of Mr. Reinhardt, Bill, I think of the amazing legacy and family he has left behind, and the mark he has made on this borough and the lives of anyone he ever met. He was a remarkable man, and those who knew him could tell countless stories about his generosity, wonderful spirit, bear hug, warm smile, the baritone laugh – a year−round Santa.”
The Reinhardts were presented with a commemorative sign by Councilmember Lew Fidler, who helped sponsor the legislation to co−name the street.
