Nathan Fredlich; a founder of Decor Interiors and Jewelry
Nathan Fredlich, who started out selling used furniture and appliances in Wellston and became a founder of Decor Interiors and Jewelry in Chesterfield, died Thursday (Jan. 21, 2010) at his home in Chesterfield. He was 82. A family member said a possible cause of death was a stroke.
As a young man, Mr. Fredlich joined with two brothers to start White Front Furniture in Wellston, which dealt in used furniture and appliances. The business eventually was moved to University City.
Mr. Fredlich took interior design classes at Washington University and the business eventually switched to offering new furniture and interior design services.
In 1966, the business was moved to Chesterfield.
Mr. Fredlich traveled the world and spent a lot of time in southeast Asia, where he got the idea to add oriental art and sculpture to his repertoire.
In the 1970s, the store added jewelry, now a major part of its business.
“It’s an unusual mix, but it worked,” said Mr. Fredlich’s son, Joe Fredlich of Chesterfield, who now runs the company with his sister, Cynthia Hillman of Ladue.
“His reputation was already in place.”
Joe Fredlich described his father as a true people person who did not see the business as about making money. In fact, after he sold customers furniture or jewelry, he’d often invite them to dinner, Joe Fredlich said. “I swear to you, my mother would get a call three times a week: ‘I’m bringing someone home to dinner.’”
Mr. Fredlich served in the Army in World War II.
Visitation will be at 2 p.m. Sunday followed by a 2:30 p.m. service at Berger Memorial Chapel, 4715 McPherson Avenue. Interment will follow at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in Chesterfield.
In addition to his son and daughter, among the survivors are two other daughters, Susan Garrett of Detroit and Judith Spielberg of Chesterfield; a brother, Morris Fredlich of Town and Country; and seven grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
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