Longtime family-owned jeweler Thiet Jewelers Inc. is closing its store in Whitefish Bay after 75 years in business.
The closure comes as third-generation owners Drew Thiet, David Thiet and Darcie (Thiet) Elshoff have decided to retire. The store, located at 513 E. Silver Spring Drive, begins a closing sale and celebration on Nov. 9, according to a news release.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve our customers, friends and community through three generations of our family,” said company president Drew Thiet in a statement. “Whitefish Bay has been a wonderful place to do business, and we thank our loyal customers and all of the outstanding employees who have contributed to our success. We will miss all of them.”
Thiet Jewelers was founded in 1945 by Erwin and Pearl Thiet.
In a letter addressed to “valued customers and friends,” the owners said the decision to wind down operations was largely based on the family’s next generation, who had opted out of taking over the business.
“Our children, the fourth generation of the Thiet family, have spread their wings and all have chosen different career paths outside of the retail jewelry business. It is therefore with mixed emotions that we have made the decision it is time for us to retire,” the letter reads.
David Thiet plans to continue practicing his craft as the jeweler’s master goldsmith. The business advised customers to “watch for future announcements” on his jewelry repair service.
