Mike Freed retires from family business
A familiar face in downtown Kokomo since taking over the family jewelry business in the 1990s, Mike Freed is passing the torch to his long-time manager so he can retire. His parents bought Palmer’s Jewelry in 1946, two years after Palmer Gervirtz founded it.
“We’ve thrived for so long because we’ve always offered the best quality jewelry and top customer service,” said Freed, a registered gemologist. “But I want to step away to spend more time with my family and focus on my health.”
Though Freed is retiring, the store will remain open under new ownership with a new line of inventory planned.
Since its founding, Palmer’s Jewelry has emphasized personal attention to customers’ needs and quality craftsmanship; values Freed believes set the store apart from retail chains. He said helping generations of customers celebrate milestones, including engagements, weddings, and anniversaries, has been a rewarding part of his career.
“Customers will say, ‘My parents used to buy stuff from your dad,’” Freed said. “That we’re serving generations of families makes me happy. That tradition will continue.”
Giving back has been an important part of the legacy of Palmer’s Jewelry. Favorite causes include hosting in-store pet adoption events to benefit the Kokomo Humane Society, then donating proceeds from special promotions.
“We’ve had people adopt dogs right here in the store,” Freed said. “It warms your heart.”
Local initiatives addressing domestic violence and other causes are another favorite cause.
“To me, charity isn’t about drumming up publicity,” Freed said. “It’s about doing the right thing.”
As he prepares for retirement, Freed said many employees have worked at the store for decades, so he feels confident about passing along the torch.
“They know our customers and care deeply about continuing the Palmer’s Jewelry tradition,” he said.
Freed expressed gratitude for the loyalty and trust the Kokomo community has shown him and his staff.
“I’ll miss the people most of all,” he said. “They’ve supported us for over 80 years, and I’ll always be thankful for that.”
Palmer’s Jewelry, 101 E. Sycamore St., is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, visit www.palmersjewelry.com or call 765-452-2505.