About us
Granite Memorial Design in Winnipeg
For over 100 years, Larsen's Memorials has been Winnipeg's most trusted name in memorial art. What started in the early 1900's as a small monument engraving shop has grown into the largest, full-service memorial provider in Manitoba.
Through dedication to excellence in craftsmanship and unmatched customer service, we have come to be recognized as the premier memorial source in Winnipeg and beyond. Our team of highly skilled artists, designers, and stoneworkers take great pride in creating meaningful tributes that honor the lives of those being memorialized.
With the recent addition of our new warehouse facility, we have expanded our capabilities to service every memorial need while maintaining our close-knit team atmosphere.
Whether you need help planning a simple marker or designing an elaborate custom sculpture, our dedicated Memorial Counselors are here to guide you every step of the way. We proudly offer a large in-stock selection of granite in Manitoba to ensure finding the perfect option.
As the oldest memorial company in Winnipeg, we remain committed to our community through ongoing charitable initiatives and historical preservation efforts. Our leadership role in the industry has been recognized with many awards and certifications over the decades.
When memorializing a loved one, you can trust Larsen's to create a tribute as timeless as the memories it honors through our expertise, craftsmanship and heartfelt care for every client.
Our Team
Shelly Bohn
Co-owner
Dennis Bohn
Co-owner
David Bohn
Co-owner
Choosing Memorial Headstones: A Guide to Granite
Memorials That Stand the Test of Time: Upright vs. Flat
Memorials That Stand the Test of Time: Upright vs. Flat
Memorials That Stand the Test of Time: Upright vs. Flat
The Perfect Headstone for Your Late Loved One: A Comprehensive Guide
Headstone Engraving vs. Headstone Etching: What’s the Difference?
Custom headstones and other personalized memorials ensure your loved one is celebrated for years to come. Contact Larsen’s Memorials today for more info.
A headstone is a permanent tribute to your loved one, and each type of memorial monument says something a little different. Contact Larsen’s Memorials.
Headstones signify a person’s life, faith, and cultural background. Over time, different traditions and beliefs have shaped the design and symbolism of headstones to create a diverse and meaningful range of memorials. Let’s explore how different cultures and religions influence headstone designs, from the symbols used to the materials chosen. Religious Influences on Headstone Design Christianity Christian headstones often feature symbols like the cross, angels, and doves, representing faith, peace, and resurrection. Biblical verses or references to eternal life are commonly inscribed to highlight the promise of life after death. The style can vary depending on the denomination and personal preferences of the family. Islam Islamic headstones are simple, with a focus on equality before God. Ornate decorations are avoided, and, although rare, any inscriptions usually include verses from the Quran. The deceased's name and dates of birth and death are typically included, but the design remains understated and respectful to show humility and simplicity. Judaism Common symbols in Jewish headstones such as the Star of David and the Menorah represent faith and identity. Hebrew inscriptions are often used, including the deceased’s Hebrew name and their father's name. A tradition in Jewish memorials is the practice of placing small stones on the grave as a sign of respect and remembrance. Cultural Influences on Headstone Aesthetics Celtic Traditions Celtic headstones are known for their intricate designs, often featuring Celtic knots and crosses. They symbolize eternity and the interconnectedness of life and death. Spirals, triskeles, and other geometric patterns reflect ancient Celtic beliefs and artistic traditions that honour the cycle of life and the afterlife. Asian Cultures In many Asian cultures, headstones are elaborate, colourful, and highly detailed. Portraits of the deceased, intricate carvings, and script inscriptions are commonly seen. Symbols like dragons, phoenixes, and lotus flowers are used to convey virtues, rebirth, and enlightenment. Indigenous Practices For many Indigenous communities, headstone designs incorporate natural materials and elements. Stones, wood, or even plants may be used to construct the memorial, and symbols of animals, celestial bodies, or ancestral figures often appear on the headstones. They emphasize the deep connection to nature and the continued spiritual presence of the deceased. The Importance of Skilled Headstone Makers Creating a meaningful headstone involves cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the traditions that shape these memorials. A knowledgeable headstone maker ensures that the design respects the family’s wishes while reflecting their faith and heritage. Whether it's custom engraving, intricate designs, or choosing the right materials, a skilled headstone maker like Larsen’s Memorials works closely with families to create a tribute that accurately represents their loved one. Speak with Our Consultants at Larsen's Memorials to Learn About Our Headstone Options At Larsen's Memorials , we understand the significance of cultural and religious traditions in shaping a meaningful memorial. Our experienced consultants work with families to design custom headstones that reflect their loved one’s legacy. Whether you're seeking a traditional design, personalized engraving, or a historical monument restoration, we’re committed to providing high-quality, respectful memorials that honour your family’s heritage. Contact us today to learn more about our headstone options and how we can help you.
Headstones are tributes that tell the story of a person’s life. But as time goes on, there are moments when that story needs updating. Whether it’s adding a name, final date, or a meaningful message, engraving an existing headstone ensures that it continues to reflect the full legacy of the loved one it honours. Why Headstone Updates Matter Life doesn’t stop after a memorial is placed. Families may lose another loved one who needs to be included on a shared monument. In other cases, a headstone may have been left with blank dates that now need to be completed. Some families also choose to add a special inscription such as a quote, verse, or personal message that brings deeper meaning. This helps keep the headstone accurate and emotionally relevant, giving future generations a fuller picture of the life being remembered. The Practical Benefits of On-Site Engraving When it’s time to update a memorial, on-site engraving is often the most efficient and respectful option. Instead of moving the monument to a workshop, engravers bring their tools and expertise directly to the cemetery. This avoids the hassle and risk of transporting the stone and allows the monument to stay in place during the entire process. Professional on-site engraving also ensures that the new text combines well with the original design. Skilled engravers match fonts, spacing, and layout, preserving the headstone’s visual consistency while adding new details with precision. Keeping the Process Personal Having the engraving done right at the memorial site helps families stay connected during an emotional time. There’s no disruption to the resting place, and loved ones can be present during the update if they choose. This can be a source of comfort—knowing the monument is being cared for with respect, right where it belongs. Faster Turnaround, Without Cutting Corners On-site engraving is also a faster solution. Because there’s no need for transportation or reinstallation, the process is more streamlined, and families don’t have to wait as long to see the finished result. Even with the quicker timeline, the craftsmanship remains high-quality, with every letter carefully etched to match the original engraving. Respect for Original Design and Structure When updates are needed, the monument’s original integrity must be preserved. On-site headstone engraving protects the existing stonework and avoids damage that could occur during handling or transport. Professional engravers work with care to ensure the structure and appearance of the headstone remain unchanged other than the addition of the new inscription. Reach Out to Larsen's Memorials to Add Engraving to an Existing Headstone If you need to update a loved one’s headstone, Larsen’s Memorials offers expert on-site engraving in Manitoba that respects both the monument and your family's wishes. From names and dates to personalized inscriptions, we provide precise, seamless updates that preserve the legacy of those you cherish. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help maintain the integrity and meaning of your family’s memorial.