How To Memorialize A Loved One

How To Memorialize A Loved One

Before choosing where to bury your loved one, it’s important to ask yourself what type of memorial you want. Do you want a memorial that stands upright? Do you want a marker that spans all of the grave plots you purchase? Some cemeteries will only allow a flat-style marker, and some are bronze only.

If the type of memorialization is important to you, it will be important to ask before you purchase the cemetery plot (or prior to burial). All cemeteries have rules and regulations, so asking questions will ensure that you choose the best fit for your family.

Purchasing A Memorial

Purchasing a memorial is a major investment of time and money and should be undertaken with great thought and care. Cemetery memorials range from flat markers to tall, upright-style monuments. Most memorials are made from granite because of its durability and availability in a wide range of colors. Granite is also easily customizable. Bronze, on the other hand, is typically used for flat markers and for monument add-ons.

The monument builder should have an extensive display of monuments, which allows you to see first-hand the size, shape and finish. By working directly with the memorial artist, you can be involved in the whole process, from the purchase, to the design and delivery of your memorial.

You have the right to purchase the memorial from whomever you choose, as long as it complies with the cemetery’s rules and regulations for size and material.

A well-made memorial will stand the test of time, and every life’s story is worth telling for the generations to come. 

Maintaining Your Memorial

Memorials can become dirty or stained by hard water buildup, tree sap, birds or many other sources. Simple cleaning instructions include using plenty of water, a SOFT-bristled brush and biodegradable soap.

Wet the entire stone with cold clear water. Apply the soap to your brush bristles and begin scrubbing. Do not allow the soap to dry on the memorial and use plenty of water while cleaning. Let the cleaned surface dry completely. Repeat the process if necessary.  Avoid cleaning the memorial on a hot day to prevent quick drying.

Bronze memorials can be cleaned much the same way with the soft-bristled brush and mild biodegradable detergent. After it dries, you can apply a good car wax to give the memorial a fresh, polished appearance.