Sadly, I received word in early April that a longtime business associate and friend of ALIVE Magazine had passed away. Jerry Hettinger, the owner and founder of J. Hettinger Interiors, suffered a stroke last August and never fully regained his health.
When we launched ALIVE in 2005, Jerry was supportive of our new venture, being the very first full page advertiser to join us. His ads continued to run every month, becoming a fixture across from this column.
In late 2008 and throughout the following year, during the most difficult period of the economic downturn, Jerry and I often spoke about business matters. What was his main concern throughout this period? The welfare of those who worked for him. He was forced to cut costs as was the case for most all businesses, but he stood firm on his commitment to shield his employees from financial hardship.
While Jerry was certainly a creative force in the design world, he was also an astute businessman. When the same economic downturn caused nearly every other design firm to cry “uncle” and close their doors, the one left standing was J. Hettinger Interiors.
Jerry was a great supporter of his community, but very humble in doing so—true to what I imagine must be some sort of “designer’s creed” that an understated, quiet style is best.
On a personal level, I will miss Jerry’s sense of humor and his positive, affirming way of doing business. We worked together in a true spirit of mutual benefit that grew to a friendship over the years.
All of us at ALIVE offer our heartfelt condolences and prayers for comfort to Jerry’s family, friends and loved ones. May fond memories of Jerry—of his smile and good-natured spirit—be your inspiration as you continue on without him.
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