Fredlich was businessman, Israel Bonds honoree

Nathan Fredlich, a founder of Decor Interiors and Jewelry in Chesterfield, who was honored by the Israel Bonds Organization for his Jewish community activities, died Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 at his Chesterfield home. He was 82. The cause of death, according to his family, was a possible stroke.

Mr. Fredlich and two brothers founded the White Front Furniture store in Wellston, which sold used furniture and appliances. The firm later moved to University City. After taking interior design classes at Washington University, Mr. Fredlich began to offer new furniture and interior design services at the company, which moved to Chesterfield in 1966. In the next decade, Decor Interiors added jewelry to its name and business, which became a major component of the firm.

In 1978, Mr. Fredlich and his late wife Bernadine Fredlich received the City of Peace Award at Traditional Congregation’s Annual Israel Bonds Tribute dinner. Mr. Fredlich was recognized for his leadership at Traditional Congregation’s membership and building committees, the Jewish Federation and its annual campaign and B’nai B’rith. Mrs. Fredlich was recognized for her active roles with Traditional Congregation, Hadassah and Pioneer Women (now NA’AMAT USA).

Mr. Fredlich’s son, Joe Fredlich of Chesterfield, who now runs the company with his sister, Cynthia Hillman of Ladue, described his father as a “true people person” who stressed developing warm and personal relationships with his clients over making money. He recalled his father calling his mother three times a week to say that he was bringing home a guest for dinner.

Mr. Fredlich served in the Army in World War II. Funeral services were held Sunday at Berger Memorial Chapel. Burial was at Chesed Shel Emeth Cemetery in Chesterfield.

In addition to his son Joe and daughter Cynthia Hillman, among the survivors are two other daughters, Susan Garrett of Detroit and Judith Spielberg of Chesterfiled; a brother, Morris Fredlich of Town and Country and seven grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.