True Tales: One Last Christmas Gift

Published

16 years ago

July 2, 2008

About eight years ago in March, one of my customers came into my store with the physical assistance of a friend. I had known for some time Ricky had been fighting a brain tumor and that his outlook wasn’t good. Ricky asked to see our selection of gold crosses. He picked out a plain small cross with gold chain and asked that I order three of them and engrave “Love Ricky, Christmas 1996” on each. He told us to gift-wrap them in Christmas paper and hold them in the store. Ricky said, “If I’m still alive at Christmas, I’ll pick them up. If not, please deliver these to my wife on Christmas Eve.” One was for his wife and the others for his teenage daughters. Unfortunately, Ricky didn’t make it to Christmas, and I delivered the crosses when promised. I cannot begin to describe the emotion his wife and daughters had when they found out that Ricky had thought so far ahead that he gave them one final Christmas present. It was the highlight of their Christmas, as it was for every member of my staff. We have chosen a profession that can bring a lot of joy. That’s what really matters.

DALE F.,
JACKSON, MI

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”