Kimpel’s Jewelers to Close in 2020

The gems in the jewelry cases at Kimpel’s Jewelers aren’t the only sparkle the store has to offer.

The true gems are Kimpel’s owners Lisa and Gary Fox, who have announced the closing of their beloved store in 2020.

Although the Fox family is at peace with their decision to close, one that Lisa said has been a while coming, the hardest part, according to Lisa is saying “goodbye” to the customers whom they have built a relationship with over the years.

“The people are just so kind,” Lisa said.

Lisa said she has been working at Kimpel’s since she was in high school during the 1970s and being a jeweler was simply in her blood.

“It’s what I grew up doing,” she said.

Lisa and Gary have been a steadfast couple in the Ellwood City Business community for decades working hard not only to promote and sustain their business but to do the same for the community of Ellwood City. They have served the community, the Chamber of Commerce, and the city in various roles including roles on the chamber board, as reliable and dedicated leaders of the concert series in the plaza (an offering of Ellwood City Community Enrichment), and visionaries for Ellwood City Revitalization.

Lisa, whose father Bob Kimpel was third in line to lead the jewelry store, said she plans to continue her role in support of the town. She said she hopes to still have a role with assisting the chamber even though she can technically no longer serve on its board.

Kimpel’s has been an icon in Ellwood City for 97 years. Before Lisa’s father Bob, her grandfather Jack and great grandfather John managed the store.

She said she believes the specialty that Kimpel’s had to offer was customer service. This sentiment was echoed on social media announcements regarding the closing, which also referred to the kindness and community mindedness of both Gary and Lisa.

Looking into her future in retirement, Lisa said she isn’t exactly sure yet what her plans are at this time.

Both her and Gary are very musically inclined. Lisa plays the keyboard and violin and Gary plays the trombone. Both have been featured in the pit for the school musicals most recently in “Shrek.” She said they plan to continue their musical endeavors including the concert series in the plaza.

She said the support and kind words she has received since the announcement of the store’s closing have been overwhelming and heartwarming. If there is one thing she could say to all of her customers, it would be thank you.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you,” she said. “You are a blessing.”

Kimpel’s will feature a 60 percent off sale through its closing in 2020.  Visit their Facebook.com page for more information, www.facebook.com/kimpelsjewelers

Pictured Below: Lisa and Gary Fox, owners of Kimpel’s Jewelers, receive a commendation from Ellwood City Council from Council President Judith Dici.