Bachman Jewelers Owner Reflects on Decades of Memories Ahead of Retirement

(KNSI) — Countless customers have come through the doors at Bachman Jewelers on 7th as for more than 95 years, the business has helped make happy memories, and those customers have become like family. Now, the owner is ready to turn off the lights and spend time with his own family.

Founded by the Bachmans in 1926, Ted Bestgen bought the company from the Bachman family, and John Bestgen bought the store from his dad in 1995.

He explains to KNSI News that deciding to make the change was “bittersweet.” He says, “I’m getting to an age where I really want to take some time off and do some traveling. A little more fishing. More golfing.”

Bestgen says the business is more than just selling someone a piece of jewelry. “You are really involved in milestones in their lives. Maybe starting with an engagement and wedding ring. And it goes into birthdays, anniversaries, the birth of a child, all of those things are milestones that people buy jewelry for. I like to think of jewelry as wearable memories.”

Bestgen adds he didn’t do it alone, and there are plenty of people to credit along the way. “Number one, I’d like to thank all the clients, family and friends. And also, all of my employees over the years. I could not have done it without them. I’ve had a fantastic group that has worked for me and with me. And that’s been really the key, I think, to my success.”

He plans to close the store in June or earlier if the inventory gets sold off quicker.

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