Local Monument Company Stays on Top with Leading Edge Training
KITCHENER – Superior Memorials Owner and President, John Michael Weber, has a contagious enthusiasm when he speaks about his company. Understandable for this 4th generation owner whose passion for creating unique and meaningful memorials has resulted in many award winning designs. More importantly, the number of satisfied families continues to grow. “Just as no two people are exactly alike, neither should your choice of memorial be exactly like any other. “We take pride in helping families create lasting and unique tributes to their loved ones”, says Weber, “We want to tell your story”. Training and education are an integral piece of this core philosophy. Weber believes in the importance of continuous learning and training “to retain our high level of expertise and stay at the top of our craft”. This past April, he was among team members who travelled to Stansted, Quebec to attend a conference put on by the Ontario Monument Builder’s Association. Among the attendees was Master Carver Rob Stoker, who continues to hone and upgrade his skills, even with 43 years of experience. He and his apprentice were introduced to the newest equipment and technology and had the opportunity to attend hands on training sessions for various techniques of stone carving including pneumatic chiselling and ribbing, rock pitching and lettering. Weber says, “We offer old school, hand done craftsmanship such as pneumatic chiselling, rock pitching and chisel ribbing that is second to none, but we are always looking at ways to improve so these conferences are a great opportunity for us.” Training and education don’t end with the carving shop. Memorial Counsellors also attended the same conference where they were able to participate in the creation of stone treatments as well as a visit to a quarry where they saw firsthand, a slab of granite being blasted from the quarry wall. They also learned about the fundamentals of design and the different elements that can be used to take a memorial from simple to sophisticated with just a few small changes. If you are looking for a memorial, or just curious about the process, feel free to drop by Superior Memorials at 528 Victoria Street North in Kitchener where you will be greeted by their warm and knowledgeable staff. They are open during the Victoria Street Bridge Construction. www.superiormemorials.com