Millman’s Appliances

by Lily Burbage

Twenty-three years ago, Gary Chorman left for church expecting an ordinary Sunday morning. By the time he returned home, he owned an appliance store.

“I went to church and came home with the appliance store,” he said with a laugh.

The story sounds almost too simple for the beginning of a 23-year chapter of Gary’s life, but the offer was rooted in a relationship that had been building for years. Gary had worked at the family-owned business during his high school years at Cape Henlopen High School. What began as a job became a lasting relationship with Howard and Shirley Millman, who came to regard him as more than an employee. Over the years, he became like a son to the couple — and when the time came to pass their business along, Gary was their first thought.

The offer came as Gary and Mr. Millman stood on the front steps of their church.

For Gary, the decision carried a significance that went beyond taking over a business. He had watched Millman’s Appliances become a familiar presence in the community and saw firsthand the role the company played in helping its neighbors.

That connection has remained at the heart of the business. Today, Millman’s Appliances has become a fixture in the Cape Region, earning a reputation not only for its expansive showroom and expert knowledge, but for the old-fashioned customer service and community values that have defined the family-owned business for decades.

The business traces its roots to 1969, when Howard and Shirley Millman opened a Montgomery Ward Catalog Store. Over the years, the business grew alongside the communities it served, eventually shifting its focus to appliances as catalog shopping changed.

While the showroom has evolved over the years, one thing has remained constant: a commitment to treating customers like neighbors.

Gary Chorman, owner, and Patrick Chorman, COO, of Millman’s Appliances

“We’re just down-home people,” Gary said. “We offer that old-fashioned customer service and care. That’s really who we are.”

That philosophy extends beyond Gary himself. His wife, children, and now even grandchildren have become part of the business. With deep roots in the community, the family takes pride in serving the place they have long called home.

“At our core, it’s a family-owned and operated business,” Gary said.

First-time visitors often notice something unexpected before they ever begin shopping. Friendly dogs roam the showroom, greeting customers as they walk through the doors, reflecting the store’s welcoming personality.

“The first thing they’re going to experience is the dogs,” Gary said with a smile.

Beyond the furry greeters, customers find an award-winning showroom featuring dozens of appliance brands from around the world. From everyday kitchen essentials to luxury brands and fully customizable appliances that can be tailored to nearly any color or design, the selection allows homeowners to create kitchens that reflect their own personal style.

While the impressive showroom draws people in, Gary believes it’s the service that keeps them coming back.




Many of those customers have become lifelong relationships. After more than two decades, Gary says the business is now helping second- and third-generation families furnish their homes with appliances. Those lasting relationships have inspired the business to give back in ways many customers may never see.

More than two decades ago, Gary launched the Community Cares Initiative, a program that repurposes gently used appliances and donates them to local organizations and families in need. Appliances replaced during deliveries are refurbished and distributed at no cost to hospice patients, battered women’s shelters, recovery houses, and dozens of charitable organizations throughout the region.

“We look for ways to help others every day,” he said.

The program has grown to support more than four dozen local charities. In many cases, Millman’s team delivers and installs the donated appliances free of charge, ensuring recipients have one less burden to worry about.

The company’s commitment to service extends throughout Sussex County, supporting first responders, volunteer fire companies, youth organizations, and countless community initiatives.

When customers choose to shop locally, Gary believes they are supporting much more than a single business.

“We support 52 people here every day,” he said, referring to employees and their families who depend on the business. “That’s the reason why every morning I open the door and I try my best.”

Though he is passionate about giving back, Gary is hesitant to draw attention to those efforts.

“I’m not a bragger, and I’m not someone who talks about the things I do,” he said. “I do my charity by candlelight, not spotlights.”

That quiet philosophy has become part of the company’s identity. Rather than seeking recognition, the team focuses on helping wherever they can, believing strong businesses have a responsibility to strengthen the communities around them.

As online shopping and national retailers continue to reshape the appliance industry, Gary and his family believe independent businesses still offer something that cannot be replicated with the click of a button: personal relationships.

Customers aren’t simply another order number. They’re neighbors, friends, and families the staff often knows by name.

When asked what he hopes every customer feels as they leave the showroom, Gary’s answer is simple.

“Valued,” he said. “Appreciated. And part of the family.”