Etched in Stone: The Art of Remembering

Etched in Stone: The Art of Remembering

From Good Grief by O'Connell Funeral Homes

December 18, 2025 · 32 min · Season 4 · Episode 9

About this episode

Mike O’Connell discusses the significance of monuments and headstones in honoring loved ones.

In this episode, Mike O’Connell joins Pete Waggoner for a deeply insightful conversation about monuments. They explore why headstones matter, how design choices tell a story, and what most families don’t know about the planning process. From costs to colors, Mike shares decades of wisdom to help you approach monument decisions with care and creativity. Whether you’re preplanning or honoring a loved one, this episode will help you understand the value behind these lasting tributes—and how to avoid common mistakes. Episode Highlights (Timestamps): [00:01:00] Why cemeteries are peaceful places for reflection [00:02:00] Partnering with Melgard Monument for creative, affordable designs [00:04:00] Understanding size limitations, layouts, and regulations [00:06:00] Granite types, color families, and weather durability [00:08:00] Rules about markers vs. upright monuments [00:10:00] One cost includes installation, engraving, delivery, and more [00:11:00] Companion vs. single monuments and modern trends [00:13:00] Clip art, symbols, etchings, and personalizing a monument [00:16:00] The permanence of engraving—and how to avoid errors [00:22:00] Polished finishes, contracts, and sign-offs…

People in this episode

Host: Pete Waggoner

Guest: Mike O’Connell

Topics covered

  • monuments
  • headstones
  • design choices
  • planning process
  • family tributes
  • engraving

Keywords

  • monument design
  • headstones
  • planning
  • engraving
  • cemetery
  • memorials
  • personalization

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Melgard Monument

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