Morris Monuments relocates to Delta

Photo by Pat Sunderland Morris Monuments specializes in headstones, but owner Luke McGaha also produces beautiful stone products for your home and garden.Mitch Morris started Morris Monuments outside of Olathe in 1990. His son-in-law, Luke McGaha, is now the owner of the business which specializes in headstones but can handle stonework and engraving of all types.

McGaha worked with his father-in-law for many years, and later for a monument company in Grand Junction, before deciding to go into business for himself. Not surprisingly, the decision was based on the economy. In June 2009, McGaha found himself laid off from the monument company in Grand Junction. With 11 years of experience he knew he had the skills, so he decided to restart the business which had been closed down after his father-in-law's death in 2003.

For the last couple of years he kept the operation in its original location, but the site outside of Olathe was difficult to find. Earlier this month he made the move to 1630 S. Main, near the new stoplight on Highway 50. The location is not only easier to find, McGaha will also be able to display a better variety of the sizes, shapes and types of stone available through Morris Monuments.

Because his business is small and overhead is low, McGaha said his prices are lower than any local competitor's. Headstones can be purchased on the Internet, but buyers still have to deal with set-up and maintenance. It's simply eaiser, McGaha says, to stop by Morris Monuments and check out the options. With a headstone, there's no rush to make a quick decision so there's time to shop around. McGaha understands the stress placed upon grieving families, so he refuses to pressure anyone into a sale. "I try to work with the families," he said. "I'm not here to take advantage of their mourning."

Turnaround time is relatively short, with McGaha striving to complete every order within four to eight weeks.

Delivery and set-up are free across the Western Slope. McGaha also does headstone maintenance — leveling, cleaning, adding death dates and repairing vandalism.
McGaha carries a selection of urns, but if they don't suit your needs, wood urns are available through American Heritage Woodworks, which shares display space with Morris Monuments.

With the tools in his shop, McGaha can also etch glass, wood, stone. . . you name it. For the home and garden, he personalizes address rocks, pavers, stepping stones and more. Stone coasters, granite name plates for your desk, benches and picnic tables can also be fashioned out of stone and granite.

To keep busy, McGaha also does mobile sandblasting and paint preparation.

Morris Monuments is open Monday-Friday, but it's advisable to call 323-6658 to make an appointment, since McGaha is often out delivering and setting up headstones.

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