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Current Location: Stonehouse-Whitcomb Funeral Home |
History  Originally built in 1842, the building, which now serves as the funeral home, was first a Blacksmith Shop and residence of George W. Van Dyke and his family. Situated next door to the Grout Foundry, the building was almost destroyed in the Foundry Fire of 1879. It was saved by the heroic efforts of a volunteer firefighter, Mr. Teeter, who applied wet blankets to the end of the roof until the fire was controlled.
The building was sold in 1910 to Dr. John Morris and served as his residence and medical practice for many years. In 1925, funeral director Ewart Stonehouse arrived from Toronto and opened the Stonehouse Funeral Home. Years later the business was purchased by his partner, John Whitcomb. In August, 2002, the funeral home was purchased by the Smith Family, preserving the concept of family legacy and independent ownership. The Smith’s have a long history of funeral service in Ontario. Their commitment to funeral service dates back to 1938 when Wilbert J. Smith purchased an undertaking business in Burlington. His sister Jeanette was also a licensed funeral director and an early pioneer for women in funeral service. Wilbert and Jeanette were joined by their brother Stan and Wilbert’s sons Don and Doug. The family continues to own and operate the business to this day. Stonehouse-Whitcomb Funeral Home has a foundation of independent, family ownership that has, and will continue to serve Grimsby and area for years to come. |