Linda Lambrecht, a Groundbreaking VP at Shaw’s Jewelers, Dies at 67

Mosinee, Wisc.—Linda Rae Lambrecht, a longtime Sterling Jewelers executive, died Aug. 2 from metastatic breast cancer.

She was 67.

Born Nov. 30, 1953, Lambrecht was the fourth of Harry and Nellie Krumrie’s five children, as per her online obituary.

Raised in Menomonie, Wisconsin, she later moved with her family to Wittenberg.

Soon after her 1971 high school graduation, she met her would-be husband, an avid fisherman named Gary “Chops” Alan Lambrecht.

The two married on May 5, 1973, which happened to be the opening day of that year’s fishing season. The pair were married for 48 years and raised three children, Amy, Krista, and Kirk.

Lambrecht’s 20-year jewelry career began in 1983 on the sales floor of Shaw’s Jewelers in the now-closed Wausau Center Mall in Wausau, Wisconsin.

She climbed the ranks to district manager and eventually became the company’s first female regional vice president of operations.

“She was a recognized, trusted face in the Shaw’s storefront, and with her radiant personality and signature blonde hair, drew customers looking for just the right piece of jewelry,” said her obituary.

Many customers asked for Lambrecht in particular, especially when looking to mark a special occasion.

After she left the jewelry industry, she held various hotel and bank management positions but the jewelry world never left her.

Long after she left Shaw’s, customers would spot Lambrecht and show off the jewelry she helped them pick out decades ago.

“We’re saddened to learn of Linda’s passing, and extend our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family,” a Signet Jewelers spokesperson said in an email to National Jeweler.

“We join them in celebrating Linda’s life, especially her service to the company through her lifelong customer relationships, and as an inspiration for so many of her colleagues.” 

Lambrecht retired in 2016 after being diagnosed with stage IV metastatic breast cancer.

Even on her toughest days, she is remembered for her positivity and resilience.

An avid traveler, Lambrecht visited 29 countries across the world, but still enjoyed visiting local Wisconsin destinations, like going to a Northwoods waterfront cabin or taking a day trip to Door County.

She loved to entertain on the holidays, hosting family and friends for Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Her turkey stuffing was the talk of the town.

“Linda had a heart of gold and gave generously to others. Her thoughtfulness was unmatched. She was a prolific sender of greeting cards and never missed an occasion. She knew that the best cards weren’t empty, so she always included something special for her grandchildren, such as a movie ticket, a gift card, or a few dollars,” said her obituary.

Lambrecht is survived by her husband, Gary; her three children, Amy (Howard) Ruddell, Krista (Andrew) Hamilton, and Kirk (Sarah) Lambrecht; nine grandchildren; her brother Harry (Alexandra) Krumrie Jr.; her sisters Kathy Hoffman and Dr. Shirley (Dr. Steven) Kleiman; sister-in-law Joan (Gary) Martin; brother-in-law Bruce Lambrecht; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, James Krumrie.

A private celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Aspirus Hospice Care in Lambrecht’s name.