Caring for Jewish Monuments in Calgary: Maintenance Tips and Respecting Tradition

It is a profound and beautiful Jewish tradition to honour the memory of loved ones with a permanent marker, known as a “matzeivah” or monument. This practice, rooted in the concept of “kavod ha’met” (respect for the dead), ensures that a person’s legacy endures forever. For over a century, the community has turned to Somerville Memorials to fulfill this vital obligation. We are proud to be Calgary’s oldest and only Jewish memorialist, providing quality memorials and monuments for customers across Alberta since 1903. Selecting the perfect Jewish monument in Calgary is the first step; understanding its long-term upkeep is essential to preserving this sacred link to the past.

The Enduring Meaning of the Matzeivah

The monument is far more than a physical marker. It is the designated place for remembrance, reflection, and connection with the departed soul. The Jewish tradition emphasizes the placement of small stones upon the tombstones when visiting, symbolizing an enduring presence and confirming that the resting place is cared for. To honour this continuity, it is crucial that the stone itself is a sturdy and lasting testament. Whether you select traditional upright monuments or simpler pillow and flat monuments, Somerville Memorials crafts each piece to respect established “halakhic” (Jewish legal) guidelines. 

Our commitment to accuracy extends to every detail, from the selection of materials to the custom Hebrew lettering and the carefully engraved epitaphs that tell a life story. As you search for the ideal gravestones or headstones in Calgary, trust our expertise in ensuring that your memorial serves as a proper and eternal matzeivah.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Ensuring that your loved one’s memorial lasts “l'dor v'dor” (from generation to generation) requires mindful, gentle care. Our elaborately engraved monuments are crafted from high-quality, durable materials designed to withstand Alberta’s climate. However, regular cleaning will help maintain their beauty and legibility. The most crucial maintenance tip is simple: use only mild, non-ionic soap and clean water, never harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes. These aggressive products can damage the stone’s finish or harm the intricate work of the flat and upright markers. 

When cleaning, pay special attention to areas with custom bronze plaques or integrated vases to remove residue, ensuring all accessories remain securely attached. Remember that a monument’s integrity is key to its role as a perpetual witness. If you ever have questions about the care of your specific Jewish monument in Calgary, the experts at Somerville Memorials are always here to offer advice, grounded in over a century of experience.

Tailoring Your Memorial with Accessories

While the Jewish monument itself is the center of the memorial, the ability to personalize it is part of its enduring connection to the individual. Somerville Memorials offers a diverse range of accessories that enhance and complete the resting place. Beyond the monument, many families choose durable and lasting bronze plaques to carry additional inscriptions or utilize secure, integrated vases for placement of flowers during the appropriate times of year. Every accessory we offer is selected for its quality and longevity, ensuring it complements the sanctity of the memorial. We understand that every life is unique, and we are dedicated to accommodating your needs, whether you are commissioning a simple flat marker or an ornate upright monument for your loved one.

Preserve their Legacy, Respect the Tradition

The creation and care of a Jewish monument in Calgary is both solemn and sacred. Choosing to honour a loved one in this way is a mitzvah, an act of goodness that preserves legacy while upholding tradition. At Somerville Memorials, Calgary’s oldest and only Jewish memorialist, our experts are here to guide you with empathy, respect, and deep knowledge of Jewish customs. Contact us today to begin the process of creating or maintaining a lasting Jewish monument in Calgary.