bulletin 2012 august

of the National Concrete Burial Vault AssociationB U L L E T I NTHE

August 2012

Keeping Your Cool In a Heat Wave

2 NCBVA.ORG l August 2012

August 2012 l NCBVA.ORG 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Keeping Your CoolIn a Heat Wave ............................. 4Make Sure Your WorkersAre Not At Risk

Wait & See Attitude about Crane RuleCould be HazardousTo Your Financial Health ............... 8By J. Scott CalkinsNCBVA Legal Counsel

In an Ideal CompanyFamily Stays Strong ................... 12Ideal Burial Vault Co.

Convention 2013Registration ............................... 17

Membership Application ............ 18

NCBVA Certified Plants ............. 19

Industry News ’N Notes ............. 22

National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc.

P.O. Box 917525Longwood, Florida 32791

http://www.ncbva.org(888) 88-NCBVA • Fax: (407) 774-6751

PresidentHubert McQuestion

Lake Shore Burial Vault Co.Brookfield, WI

President-Elect Michael Crummitt

Crummitt & Son Vault Co.Martins Ferry, OH

Secretary/TreasurerJerry Russell

Southern Ohio Vault Co.Portsmouth, OH

Immediate Past PresidentStephen Hatfield

Hicks Industries, Inc.Mulberry, FL

Directors

Mark BatesThe Norwalk Vault Company

Bridgeport, CT

Ed BrunsBruns-Norwalk Vault Co.

St. Louis, MO

Steve HandleyHandley Precast Systems, Inc.

Glendale, AZ

Dave LongEagle Burial Vault Association

Joliet, IL

Curt ShannonSI Funeral Services

Ennis, TX

Blake SwinfordTrigard Vaults / Greenwood Plastics

Danville, IL

Greg TilleyIdeal Burial Vault Co., Inc.

Depew, NY

Steve VincentDoric Products, Inc.

Marshall, IL

Dennis WelzenbachWilbert Funeral Services

Broadview, IL

Executive DirectorThomas A. Monahan, CAE

Certified Association Management Co.Longwood, FL

Legal CounselJ. Scott Calkins, Esq.

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It’s August and it’s hot. Perhaps hot-ter than you can ever remember. As heat rises, so does the death rate—especially among older people. The demand for your burial

vaults may have increased this summer, but in ramping up production to meet demand, your employees may also be at risk. If they are older (not everyone retires at 65 any more), have health conditions or take cer-tain medications, their risk is even higher. Consider the results of a recent 24-

year study by Harvard School of Public Health in Boston that was published on line April 9 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and draw your own conclusions about the effects of heat stress on the general population. A news item written by Christine Moyer on amednews.com highlighted results of this study, which correlated the effects of extended high tem-

peratures above the average with the life expectancy of older people—particularly those with chronic medical conditions. For every one degree increase in an area’s average summer temperature, the death risk for the elderly (those over 65) rose between 2.8 and 4 percent. Researchers used Medicare data from 1985 to 2006 and followed the long-term health of 3.7 million people who lived in 135 U.S. cities. They found that in the years when summer temperature swings were higher, the death rate corresponded, as opposed to the years when there were smaller variations in temperature.

Extremes Tax the BodyExtreme heat taxes a body’s internal system for regulating temperature. The body’s re-sponse to heat is sweating to cool down. If the ability to sweat becomes compromised, however, one’s internal temperature can rise to dangerous levels, stressing the heart and other vital organs. Older persons and those with diabetes, heart or lung conditions are vulnerable to heat-related illness. Extreme of cold temperatures have an effect on the death rate, too, but not nearly to the same extent as hot temperatures. The National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tracks cold-related and heat-relat-ed fatalities. In 2011, the NOAA reported a total of 29 extreme cold deaths, which was slightly above the 10-year average of 27. With eight deaths, Illinois had the most cold-related deaths for the fourth consecu-tive year. Coming in at second place with three victims each were New Mexico, Nevada and Texas. The most hazardous place to be was outside, which accounted for 21 deaths. The hardest hit age ranges

Keeping Your CoolIn a Heat WaveMake Sure

Your WorkersAre Not At Risk


were 40 - 49 and 70 -79. More men than women were victims of cold-related deaths (17 vs. 12). Contrast those statistics with the 2011 heat-related fatalities (206), up significantly from 138 fatalities in 2010 and well above the 10-year average of 119. The most dangerous place to be was in a permanent home with little or no air conditioning (119 deaths attributed). The next most dangerous location was outside or in an open area (31 deaths). Texas had the most victims at 46, followed by Pennsylvania, 36, and Illinois, 33. Older adults (aged 50+) were most af-fected, with 170 deaths. More men than women were killed by heat (133 vs. 73). According to the Harvard study, use of alcohol and prescription medications are other compromising factors when it comes to heat-related illnesses and death potential. Some of the 13 medications or substances that could raise a person’s risk of developing heat-related complications include amphetamines, antihistamines, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, laxatives and tricyclic antidepres-sants. Who’s at Risk in the Workplace?While the elderly are particularly at risk when temperatures rise and stay elevated, no one is immune from heat-related illness. According to Cal/OSHA, workers new to outdoor jobs are generally most at risk. In 2005, that agency investigated 25 incidents of heat-related illness and found that in nearly half the cases, the worker involved was on his/her first day of work. In 80 per-cent of the cases, the worker involved had only been on the job four or fewer days. New workers in the outdoors and those returning to outdoor work after a time away should gradually build up a tolerance for hot conditions. Additional risk factors for heat-related illness: (1) working in direct sunlight; (2) performing prolonged or strenuous work; and (3) wearing heavy protective cloth-ing. Work-with-the-Heat AdviceFrom NCBVA MembersGlendale, AZ (Phoenix area)One expects to endure higher temperatures in a desert area such as Glendale, where the average in December and January is about 66º, and the average in July is usually about 105. Steve Handley, President of Handley Precast Systems Inc., says temps have been

going above the average lately. He states that the thermometer hit 113 on July 9, fell to 112 on July 10, and “really cooled off” on the 12th at only 109. The “low” temperatures for those days were above 90. Because all of Handley Precast’s production is done outside with no cover, their day starts at 5 a.m. and usually concludes by 2 p.m. “We’re all motivated to finish production as quickly as possible to get out of the heat,” says Steve. “But the most important thing to remember about working in excessive heat is to drink lots of water—not soda or caffeinated drinks—to keep hydrated. My employees have lived here most of their lives and know how to recognize when someone is getting overheated. They do a good job of keeping an eye on each other and make anyone showing signs of heat-related stress sit down out of the sun and drink water.” “Another thing,” Steve continues, “our delivery trucks are all air-conditioned, but we’ve learned not to keep the temperature too cold in the trucks because it’s hard on the body to go from extreme cold air to extreme heat. When at a service, our guys look for shade to stand in whenever pos-sible, and they always have plenty of water available.” Dressing properly for working in heat is also important, Steve points out. “Most of our production employees wear long-sleeved shirts with undershirts. Amazingly,

this will keep you cooler than you might think. The undershirt will get wet from sweat, but that will help keep you cool. And don’t forget a hat and sunscreen.”

Newton, IL (Southern IL)Mark Bolander, Owner/President of Rex Vault, reports that his production workers have been starting at 6 a.m. since early June, and that the high was 105 in the middle of a 17-day heat wave. Three large commercial fans in the plant keep the air moving. Mark also stresses the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding extended periods of time in direct sunlight, wear-ing proper clothing and a hat or cap. (He reminds burial vault workers that, out of courtesy in the cemetery, hats/caps should be removed while near the family of the deceased.) Mark doesn’t mince words about job smarts. “Most of our employees work alone in the cemetery,” he states. “If you can’t hire people with common sense, you’d better do more training. Make sure they are provided with a functioning cell phone and well-maintained air conditioning in the service truck.”

Houston, TexasJay Walker, Operations Manager of Wilbert Vaults of Houston, LLC, says that tempera-tures the first week of July were not too bad—in the mid-90s, cooling down to mid- to high 80s the following week because of rain. Production in the summer starts at the regular time of 7 a.m. Large vent fans and some floor fans help move air through the production area. “Hydration is very important,” says Jay. “We stress cutting the caffeine intake dur-

If you don’t have a safety training program in effect for heat-related illness and prevention, search on line for safety training for heat conditions to find government and private training sources. Some of the sites that will come up as a result of your search include:Occupational Safety & Health Administration (www.osha.gov); State OSHA Offices; Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov); College & University Websites.

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ing the day with more water. Drinking a lot of coffee and sodas can make a person lose more fluids. In the plant for breaks we pro-vide powder Gatorade for one cooler every day, and also have a cooler of water. The supervisors watch for signs of heat stress. If anyone seems to be getting too hot, we catch it before there are any problems. So far we’ve never had anyone who’s had to go to the hospital.” Delivery personnel also have small coolers of Gatorade available. Jay reports that most of the drivers are long-term em-ployees and are able to handle the heat by working smart and staying hydrated. Working smart is a part of safety train-ing at Wilbert Vaults. “Each year we have a safety meeting,” Jay states, “and we in-clude how to adjust to working in the heat. Whenever we talk to potential employees, we are sure to cover the heat conditions in which we often have to work.”

North Chesterfield, VA (Richmond area)Some burial vault manufacturers have to deal with high humidity as well as high heat, which can make working conditions feel even hotter. E.O. “Earnie” Markham,

President of Markham Vault Services, reports: “We had temperatures around 100 and above for approximately 10 straight days in the Richmond area. The humidity made it even worse. A major storm went through, and some homes and businesses in our area were without power for two or three days. Some went without power for a full week. During this stretch the temperature in our production facility eas-ily reached 120+ in the afternoon once. Everyone was sent home.” Without air conditioning in the plant, the only way to cope with high heat days, says Earnie, is to open all roll-up doors and try to get some cross-breeze through the open doors. “During the hot periods in the summer,” Earnie explains, “we start the production crew at 6 a.m. and they leave by 2 p.m. if at

The work can’t get done without them.

all possible. We have fans in the ceiling that pull hotter air up in the summer, and fans at either end of the building in the eaves pull the air outside. These ceiling fans reverse in the winter months to try to keep the hotter air from rising above the production floor. They are designed to push the heat that naturally rises back down.” Earnie cautions that they don’t use any floor fans blowing across the poured forms because of the potential for creation of flash hairline cracks. Safety training is also key for Markham Vault. All employees are required to com-plete training that includes a first-aid course that addresses heat-related problems, how to identify them, and most importantly, how to prevent them. “When the temperatures are high,” says Earnie, “we send our delivery personnel out earlier to complete the set-up process if at all possible. They may have to work in extreme heat at the conclusion of the graveside committal, but that can’t always be avoided. That’s where training and com-mon sense are important.”

See Signs of Heat Stress...Page 9


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IN MEMORIAM

Stephen (Steve) Harold StillermanStephen (Steve) Harold Stillerman, father-in-law of NCBVA Director Mark Bates (Norwalk Vault Company, Bridgeport, CT), passed away on July 3, 2012 after a 12-year battle with Leukemia. He was 72 years old. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, daughters Lisa Stillerman and Nicole Bates, son-in-law, Mark, and granddaughter, Alexandra.

Steve graduated from Boston University and had a successful 25-year career in private equity investing. He was the founder of Westfield Capital, an investment firm that had controlling interests in numerous manufacturing and distribution businesses He was a member of the Young Presidents Organization and the World Presidents Organization.

Steve lived an extraordinary life filled with his love of family, friends, spirituality, lunch club, YPO forums, and boating.

He donated much of his time as an advisor to the American Woman’s Economic Development Corporation in New York City, as a member of the Greenwich Board of Social Services, a mentor to Big Brothers of Greenwich, CT, and a business lecturer at Sacred Heart University and Skidmore College. Steve’s proudest accomplishment was his service and commitment as both member and Chairman of the Board of Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan, CT, where he was serving as Chair Emeritus.

Kathrine Lee "Kathy" (Fisher) Brutsche Kathrine Lee "Kathy" (Fisher) Brutsche, age 55, died unexpectedly April 22 at her home in Battle Creek, MI. She was the wife and partner of NCBVA Past President Tim Brutsche, Brutsche Concrete Products, Battle Creek, MI.

Daughter of John "Jack" Westley and Nancy Ann (Cleveland) Fisher, Kathy was born in Seattle, WA and moved to Battle Creek in 1968. She was a 1975 graduate of B.C. Lakeview High School and continued her education at Michigan State University, where she met her husband.

Kathy was employed in a retail store until children began arriving…four in all, including a set of twins. Once the children were all in school, Kathy returned to the work world, joining her husband in the family business that included her father-in-law, Past President Earl Brutsche, and her two sons. Kathy, along with Tim, was Owner/Operator's of Brutsche Concrete Products of Battle Creek for the past 32 years. They rarely missed an NCBVA convention, usually bringing along a number of children and children’s friends!

Kathy was a member of St. Philip Catholic Church and the Battle Creek Country Club. She enjoyed sailing, skiing, making jewelry and having the family over for Sunday night dinner and a movie.

Surviving are her husband Tim; her twin daughters, Britany Anne Brutsche of Pittsburgh, PA, and Jordan Paige Brutsche of Battle Creek; her two sons, Michael Andrew "Mickey" and Kenneth Fitzgerald "Kenny" Brutsche, both of Battle Creek; and her sister, Victoria G. Fisher of Battle Creek. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; her step-mother, C. Doreen (Bunning) Fisher; and her twin sister, Constance L. Fisher.

Editor’s note: The news of Kathy’s passing was sent out in April in an e-Bulletin. It is re-published here for our readers who may not have seen it on line.

Brutsche family in earlier years


By J. Scott Calkins, Esq.NCBVA Counsel

To keep our members informed, the previous NCBVA Bul-letin (June 2012 issue) published a letter sent by NCBVA to Dr. David Michaels, MPH, Assistant Secretary of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). The letter is a formal request for our industry’s exemption from the Crane Rule. It has come to my attention that apparently some members believe that because the Association has submitted such an exemption request, they may not have to comply with existing regulations of the Crane Rule. As a result, they are currently choosing to do nothing proactive. Adopting such a “wait-and-see” attitude is risky business. Here’s why: Crane operators, signalers and riggers for mobile cranes were required to be OSHA-qualified by November 8, 2010. That’s the effective date of the requirement. That’s the reality. To those owner members who have taken the necessary steps to qualify their employ-ees involved in crane operations or are in the process of having their personnel qualified through in-house programs or NCBVA’s OSHA-approved training program, please allow me as your long-time counsel to compliment you.

Delaying Compliance is Risky To those member owners who are risking severe penalties by delaying the qualification of their crane-operator personnel, here are some pointed questions: Are you ready for a fine that could reach $20,000 or more? Are you ready for a citation from OSHA that not only contains a fine but may also curtail your delivery of your concrete burial vaults because your personnel are not qualified? Here’s a personal warning: No one should rely on the NCBVA letter to OSHA (which I participated in drafting) to be favorably received and the exemption granted. That letter is a long shot!!! And finally, a word of advice: Non-compliant member owners should waste no further time in implementing a program to qualify crane operators and other involved personnel. The qualification procedure may be “home grown” (that is, you may establish your own in-house teaching and testing by OSHA-approved teachers) or, offered by an outside training/testing resource. To take advantage of a cost-effective program designed specifically for burial vault manufacturers, contact Tom Monahan, NCBVA’s Executive Director. He’ll be glad to explain about the courses being offered by NCBVA, as well as the costs and locations of the teaching-and-testing seminars. Let me state once more for the record: If you are currently using a crane to deliver concrete burial vaults, and your personnel involved are not qualified or not even in the process of qualification, then please accept this WARNING and take appropriate action.

Wait-and-see Attitude Concerning the Crane RuleCould Be Hazardous To Your Financial Health!


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Degrees of Heat Stress; What to Do Continued from page 6During extremes of high temperatures, regardless of being in the plant around other workers or in the cemetery alone, burial vault manufacturers and staff should be aware of the stresses heat puts on the human body and know what to do in emergency situations.

Heat stress is a common reaction, especially if a person is engaged in strenuous activity. Symptoms include thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and even difficulty seeing. What to do: Find a cool place and drink cool water or juice.

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms (arms, legs or in-testines); caused by losing salt while sweating. What to do: Seek shade to cool down and drink water or juice. Preventive: Include foods in one’s regular diet that will replace lost salt.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include weakness, dizziness and/or nausea. Other symptoms may include chills, clammy skin, and profuse sweating. What to do: Find a cool spot and try to rest with feet slightly elevated; drink plenty of fluids. If condition doesn’t soon improve, seek medical attention. Continue to take it easy for a few days, especially if excessive heat continues. Slow down; reduce the pace of activity. Heatstroke is life threatening and emergency medical attention is re-quired. The victim stops sweating, and the body overheats. Look for hot and flushed skin, poor coordination and confusion, possibly followed by loss of consciousness. What to do: Call 911 and move the person to a cool place. Sponge with cold water, apply ice packs or cold drink cans, or immerse in cold water to bring down the body’s core temperature. If the person is not conscious, do not offer drinking water.


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James “Big Jim” Darby, founder of Trigard, recently claimed his place in Illinois history. Alongside four other honorees, he was inducted to the inaugural class of the Vermilion County Business Hall of Fame. A permanent display has been installed at the Vermilion County museum to showcase their achievements.

Vicki Haugen, President/CEO of Vermilion Advantage, an organization dedicated to growing the local economy, said, “Each of the individuals… holds a significant place in the business history and economic development of our community, because they were/are trail blazers who not only worked hard to establish and grow their businesses, they also invested their time, financial resources and talents to grow and improve our community.”

“Big Jim” got his start in funeral service by digging graves with a shovel at his father’s cemetery. While he was still in high schoool he made the decision that working in the funeral industry was what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. That began a career that has resulted in ownership of Greenwood, Inc.,

run by his children, Linda Darby, Chief Executive Officer; Rich Darby, Chief Operating Officer; and Donna Walthall-Darby, Chief Financial Officer. Greenwood includes Trigard burial vaults, Trigard Memorials, Greenwood Plastics Industries, a cemetery, and six funeral homes in Illinois and Arizona.

“Big Jim” believes if you have a passion for life, that passion just rolls over and touches everything you do. “He has a lot of passion —for his family, his business, his church, inventions, model trains, and his community.

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Even as a very young man, Jim Darby knew what he wanted to do with the rest of his life.

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“There’s no real secret to our company’s longevity,” states Greg Tilley, Vice President of Ideal Burial Vault Company. “We have always held tightly to three main strengths: Working hard, adhering

to high quality standards, and providing unwavering service. Our service never falters. Even when there are blizzards—and we have plenty of them here—we try to deliver the best service and product possible.”

Greg brings an engaging smile and a positive attitude to his position in the company. He is responsible for searching out new business and opportunities, and is the third generation of leadership in the family-owned business, serving beside his father George as President of the company founded by Borden (George’s father) in 1952.

Add innovation to the strengths listed above and the recipe thickens for positive results. Ideal Burial Vault has served the Buffalo area since it was established. The company has been an Eagle dealer and still offers those products. Three years ago the company also became a Trigard dealer and expanded into the Rochester market. Trigard encourages innovation in the burial vault manufacturing industry and gives awards to dealers that practice new ways of getting and keeping business. In September 2011, Ideal Burial Vault took home two awards from a sales meeting: “Highest New Dealer Sales Growth” and a new “You Get It” award that recognizes the dealer that does an exceptional job of promoting its brand, serving families and embracing new trends in the burial vault industry.

Ideal Burial Vault Company, located in the village of Depew, NY, serves two major metropolitan areas, Buffalo and Rochester. Recently the company has experienced new growth and has received awards for innovation. What is the secret to its success?

At the Trigard Convention in 2011, Ideal Burial Vault Company took home two awards, one of which was the new “You Get It” award. Shown (L - R) are George Tilley, President, and Greg Tilley, Vice President; and Donna Darby-Walthall, CFO, and Rich Darby, COO, Trigard.

In an Ideal Company Family Stays Stong

By Sylvia HeidemannNCBVA Staff Writer


Industry ChallengesWhen asked what he thinks are the main challenges facing burial vault manufacturers, Greg replies: “Cre-mation is the easy answer, but I think it’s far worse for company management to exhibit the traits of resistance to change and short-sightedness. Cremation is not going to go away. As owners of burial vault manufacturing facilities, we need to carefully study what has changed that affects our business, and figure out to how fit into those changes to sustain business.”

“We need to keep working with our funeral directors to get them on board with the changes,” continues Greg, “instead of bemoaning the fact that business is drastically different from what it was 10, 20 or 50 years ago. Embracing change is a much more positive approach.”

Challenges in the supply chain of goods and materials, however, can be a real concern. “The escalation of fuel prices is a hurdle that’s constantly with us,” states Greg. “We spend considerable effort on making our plants and our company vehicles as energy-efficient as possible.”

In addition to its main production plant in Depew, Ideal Burial Vault has a storage facility in rural LeRoy.

Greg advocates that it’s important to know the markets one serves, and to meet the needs of those markets. There are distinct characteristics of the Buffalo and Rochester markets, but the two cities share struggles that are common all across the country––from the biggest cities to the smallest villages and towns.

“Around 1900, Buffalo was one of the largest cities in the U.S. and thriving,” says Greg, “and Rochester was also strong. I heard a comment on the news recently that the whole world is suffering, and I believe we are seeing that. As we all know, toward the end of the 20th century many businesses––such as the steel industry, for one example––began moving out of the state and even out of the country. People have been hard hit financially, and we have to work with that.”

Continued

“There’s no real secret to our company’s longevity,” states Greg Tilley, Vice President of Ideal Burial Vault Company. “We have always held tightly to three main strengths: Working hard, adhering

to high quality standards, and providing unwavering service. Our service never falters. Even when there are blizzards—and we have plenty of them here—we try to deliver the best service and product possible.”

Greg brings an engaging smile and a positive attitude to his position in the company. He is responsible for searching out new business and opportunities, and is the third generation of leadership in the family-owned business, serving beside his father George as President of the company founded by Borden (George’s father) in 1952.

Add innovation to the strengths listed above and the recipe thickens for positive results. Ideal Burial Vault has served the Buffalo area since it was established. The company has been an Eagle dealer and still offers those products. Three years ago the company also became a Trigard dealer and expanded into the Rochester market. Trigard encourages innovation in the burial vault manufacturing industry and gives awards to dealers that practice new ways of getting and keeping business. In September 2011, Ideal Burial Vault took home two awards from a sales meeting: “Highest New Dealer Sales Growth” and a new “You Get It” award that recognizes the dealer that does an exceptional job of promoting its brand, serving families and embracing new trends in the burial vault industry.

Family: Another Success FactorFamily ties are yet another strengthening factor for Ideal Burial Vault, but the working atmosphere isn’t necessarily perfect all the time.

“We’re tightly knit,” says Greg, “but that doesn’t mean we don’t have disagreements. There are 12 on the staff, so there can be a lot of volatility, but we mend our bridges quickly because we are family.”

Within the company are two father/son combinations, one uncle and nephew, and a pair of cousins. Filling a job vacancy has never been a problem because there’s always a friend of a friend who can usually fit right in.

Working on CertificationIdeal Burial Vault is a long-time NCBVA member. The Tilleys want to get their plant certified and are awaiting a slot on the NCBVA’s plant certification representative’s inspection schedule. In the meantime, Craig Anderson, the NCBVA representative, is working with them on their mix design.

The NCBVA and the assistance it provides to the burial vault industry are additional strong assets that should be utilized, in Greg’s opinion. At the annual convention in January in Las Vegas, he was elected to the Board of Directors. Like many other owners and managers present at the convention, he appreciated taking part in the first train-the-trainer program for rigging, one of NCBVA’s efforts in helping manufacturers comply with recent crane opera-tor requirements.

Greg got his start in the family business like many other chil-dren of burial vault manufacturers. He went with his father to funeral set-ups on Saturdays. If there was a body of water nearby,

Ideal Burial Vault Company, located in the village of Depew, NY, serves two major metropolitan areas, Buffalo and Rochester. Recently the company has experienced new growth and has received awards for innovation. What is the secret to its success?

George Tilley, President, (photo left) is “hands on” when it comes to pouring concrete. With the pouring concluded for the day, the units set up in the plant.

The Tilley family: Nathan, 8; Greg; Neve, 5; and Amy.


he’d bring along a fishing pole. At the age of 15, Greg was helping pour vaults during holiday breaks and summer vacations. He began delivering vaults at 16. After high school, he continued to work in the family business part-time while earning a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Buffalo.

“I liked the idea of mechanical engineer-ing because I enjoyed taking things apart to see how they worked, as well as the challenge of putting them back together,” Greg says. “I used to study in the truck while waiting for funerals.”

A natural course of events sideracked Greg away from a career in mechanical engineer-ing, however, and into a career in the family vault business. “When I finally received my degree,” he comments, “it was 1991, the early beginnings of the recession. My grandfather passed away around that time. Those two major events gave me a convenient excuse to stay in the family business, and I’ve never regretted it.”

Family ValuesAlthough Greg jokingly refers to his wife Amy as a “health fanatic,” she is really a healthcare professional. A radiation thera-pist, she has also been a saleswoman of radiation equipment and an instructor in its use. For a time she operated a gym, but decided that serving clients at the gym until 8 or 9 p.m. was very stressful on the young Tilley family. Greg and Amy have two children—Nathan, 8, and Neve, 5.

“Amy is still passionate about well be-ing,” says Greg, “but now she concentrates on our family’s fitness and provides others with health advice through her website.”

Greg spends many hours maintaining and building up the family business, but tries to spend as much time as possible with the kids. When he can squeeze in some extra time for himself, he enjoys skiing, biking, hunting and hockey.

A strong work ethic seems naturally ingrained in the Ideal Burial Vault family management team through three successive generations. The Tilley youngsters are the

fourth generation, and Greg has already begun taking Nathan with him to the plant and to cemeteries for set-ups.

“My Grandmother Dorothy did all the books until she was 90,” says Greg, “and my Mother (Marian) did all the invoicing until just recently. It’s sometimes difficult to pull Dad away from the plant, but he does like to golf and ride his motorcycle.”

Company Philosophy:Enjoy Work = Produce Good WorkIn his everyday approach to the job, Greg Tilley personifies a zest for life and an en-joyment of work that has been passed on to him by family members in the business.

“We spend a major portion of our lives at the workplace,” he states. “We believe people do a much better job if they really like what they do. That means giving them proper training, empowerment to make decisions, and flexibility in work schedules when they need it. Happy employees give us top-quality work. Ours is a business that serves people at their deepest needs. We’re pleased that we can provide an excellent product and meet those needs.”

As his father did with him, Greg is introducing the next generation to the family business. Nathan often accom-panies him on cemetery set-ups and in the plant.


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National Concrete Burial Vault Association“Serving the death care industry with the very best”

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP

Key Contact____________________________________Nickname_____________Title ______________________________________________________________Company Name _____________________________________________________Street Address _______________________________________________________City _____________________ State _______________ Zip __________________Phone ___________________________ Fax ______________________________E-mail ____________________________________________________________Company Web Site ___________________________________________________

Check here if you prefer to have your mail sent to your home.Home street Address _________________________________________City _____________________ State ______________ Zip ___________Home Phone _________________ Home Fax ______________________

COMPANY INFORMATION Burial Vault Manufacturer Funeral Director Crematory Cemetery

Doric Wilbert Eagle Trigard Con-O-lite Other Provide Graveside Services

Metal Vaults Plastic Vaults Fiberglass VaultsOffer sizes for Children Adults Oversize

Associate Member: Tell us in 25 words or less about your product/services

Please enroll me in NCBVA today!Signature indicates that you have read and agree to abide by NCBVA’s Code of Ethics and the rules that govern the National Concrete Burial Vault Association. Signature is required before this application can be processed.

_________________________________________ ___________ (Signature) (Date)

Dues Schedule

Manufacturer MemberDues are based on total units sold at this location.

Please check appropriate level: 1-999 Units .........$225 1000 - 1999 .........$350 2000 - 3499 .........$430 3500 - 4999 .........$580 5000 and more ....$700

Associate Member .....$300

Franchise Group .......$1000

Payment InformationInclude payment with this completed form. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express

Check is enclosed

Please charge my Visa MasterCard

Account #_____________________Expiration date _________________

Mailing Information

NCBVAP.O. Box 917525

Longwood, FL 32791(888) 88-NCBVA

Fax: (407) 774-6751

www.ncbva.org

We believe that concrete is an ideal material for the construction of burial vaults for the interment of human remains and that a properly constructed concrete burial vault is worthy of acceptance by the public. Our sales and advertising policies will be governed by standards acceptable by the public and the funeral profession and by principles advocated by the National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc. We pledge fair trade practices to our competitor, whose product we will not dispar-age. We shall conduct our business on sound business principles, striving to build a relationship of respect and confidence for the burial vault industry with the public, with the funeral director and with the cemetery’s management. We will abide by the rules and regulations of the National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc., thereby contributing to a stronger and greater national industry.

CODE OF ETHICS


A D & Sons Vault Co. Suffolk, VAAbel Vault & Monument Co. Canton, ILAmerican Concrete Industries Veazie, MEAmerican Vault Co. Cleveland, OHAmerican Wilbert Vault Corp. Forest Park, ILArnold-Wilbert Corp. Goldsboro, NCArrow Vault Co., Inc. Lafayette, INAtlas Concrete Products, Inc. Orlando, FLAustin Concrete Products Dover, NHBabylon Vault Co. New Windsor, MDBadger Burial Vault Co. Eau Claire, WIBailey Monument & Vault Co. Waycross, GABaumgardner Products Co. Akron, OHBaxter Burial Vault Cincinnati, OHBaxter Vault Co. Baxter Springs, KSBeck Vault Co. Rome, NYBell Vault & Monument Miamisburg, OHBrewster Vaults & Monuments Millville, NJBrown-Wilbert, Inc. Morris, MNBrown-Wilbert, Inc. St. Paul, MNBruns Norwalk Vault Co. St. Louis, MOBrutsche Concrete Products Battle Creek, MIBrutsche Concrete Products Benton Harbor, MIBuckeye Vault Service, Inc. Mansfield, OHC & M Precast Kerrville, TXCalumet Wilbert Vault Co. Inc. Gary, INCapital Precast, Ltd. St. Johns, NL, CanadaCarolina-Doric, Inc. Florence, SCCarolina-Doric, Inc. Snow Camp, NCCemex, Inc. Lake Worth, FLCentral Burial Vaults, Inc. Marlow, OK

Central Burial Vaults, Inc. Oklahoma City, OKCentral Burial Vaults, Inc. Tulsa, OKCentral New York Vault Co. Cortland, NYCentury Vault Co., Inc. West Barnstable, MACharleston Wilbert Summerville, SCCheboygan Cement Products Co. Cheboygan, MIChesapeake Burial Vault Co. Barkley, MDChristy Vault Co., Inc. Colma, CAColumbus-Beier Vaults Columbus, WICooper Wilbert Vault Co. Middletown, DECordeiro Vault Co., Inc. Vallejo, CACostello & Company Vaults Smith Falls, Ontario, CanadaCreter Vault Corp. Flemington, NJCrummitt & Son Vault Corp. Martins Ferry, OHD.G. Robertson, Inc. Williston, VTDardanelle Vault & Monument Dardanelle, ARDeihl Vault & Precast Co. Orangeville, PADelaware Valley Vault Co. Blackwood, NJDePue Wilbert Vault Savannah, GA Detroit Wilbert Vault Corp. Detroit, MIDoody Burial Vaults, Inc. Winchendon, MADoric Concrete Vaults Inc. Garden City, KSDoric Concrete Vaults, Inc. Great Bend, KSDoric Concrete Vaults Inc. Osage City, KSDoric Huntingburg Vault Co. Huntingburg, INDoric of Kansas Vault Iola, KSDoric of Nashville, Inc. Nashville, TNDoric of Northeast Arkansas Jonesboro, ARDoric of Tennessee Cowan, TNDoric Concrete Vaults Limon, CODoric Concrete Vaults, Inc. Newton, KS

Doric Manufacturing Co. Boaz, ALDoric Mississippi, Inc. Jackson, MSDoric-South, Inc. Demopolis, ALDoric Vault of Connecticut North Haven, CTDoric Vault of Eastern NY, Inc. Hudson, NYDoric Vault of Western NY, Inc. Depew, NYDoric Vault Co. Griffin, GADura Vault North Bend, OHEagle Burial Vault Co. of LA Ruston, LAEagle Burial Vaults Perry, GAEsterly Burial Vault Co. West Reading, PAEvans Eagle Vaults, Inc. Leola, PAEverlasting Vault Co. Randallstown, MDFlagg-Palmer Precast, Inc. Oxford, MAFlorida Wilbert, Inc. Jacksonville, FLFond du Lac Wilbert Vault Fond du Lac, WIForsyth Bros. Concrete Prod. Terre Haute, INForsyth Bros. Burial Vaults Fithian, ILFort Myers Wilbert Vault Service Fort Myers, FL Gettysburg Burial Vault Co. Gettysburg, PAGolden Eagle Vault Co. Rocky Mount, VA Grable Vault Co. Logansport, INGraffius Burial Vault Co. Sinking Springs, PAGranite State Doric Newport, NH Gross Vault Co. Thomasville, GAHairfield Vault Co. Hickory, NCHardy Doric, Inc. Chelmsford, MAHarn Vault Service Massillon, OHHarris Precast La Porte, INHicks Industries, Inc. Davie, FLHicks Industries, Inc. Mulberry, FL Horton Precast Girard, PA

Huntingburg Vault Co. Huntingburg, INJacson, Inc. Henderson, TXJefferson Concrete Corp. Watertown, NYJosten Wilbert Vault Co. Sioux Falls, SDKansas City Wilbert Grandview, MOLake Shore Burial Vault Co. Brookfield, WILavaca Vault Co. Lavaca, ARLindquist Concrete Products Ogden, UTLouisell-Davis Vault Service Chattanooga, TNLycoming Burial Vault Co. Inc. Montoursville, PAMarion Vault Works Marion, INMark H. Bott Co. Ogden, UTMaster Grave Service Athens, GAMcDowell Doric Vault Co. Fletcher, NCMemphis Burial Vault Co. Memphis, TNMercer Vault Company Fredericksburg, VAMilan Burial Vault, Inc. Milan, MIMinchew Concrete Products Co. Waycross, GAMinnick Services Corp. Fort Wayne, INMontgomery Vault Co. Woodsboro, MDMontgomery Vault Co. Rockville, MDMoore Wilbert Vault Co. Evans, GANeher Burial Vault Co. Springfield, OHNor-Don Vault Co. Inc. Strafford, MONorth Central Mich. Vault Srvc. Cadillac, MINorthwest PA Burial Service Cochranton, PANorwalk Vault Co. Johnstown, PAOdon Vault Company, Inc. Odon, INOmaha Wilbert Vault, Inc. Omaha, NEOstwalt Vault Co. Concord, NCPalm Vault Co. Ada, OKPatriot Vault Co. Park Hills, MOPanhandle Vaults Amarillo, TXFor information on NCBVA’s exclusive Plant Inspection and Certification Program, please contact

NCBVA Headquarters at 1-888-88-NCBVA or use application form on the next page. continued . . .

NCBVA proudly recognizes the following companies that have a current standing in the

Plant Certification Program

NCBVA Certified Vault Manufacturing Plants


Name of Plant ___________________________________________________________________________

Plant Mailing Address______________________________________________________________________

Plant Street Address_______________________________________________________________________

Plant Telephone_________________ Fax Number_______________________________________

Owner’s Name_____________________________ Evening Phone______________________________

Plant Manager/Contact Person__________________ Evening Phone_______________________________

Types of Outer Burial Receptacles Produced Top Seals Air Domes SectionalsOther________________________________________________

Please return this application with full payment to:

The National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc.P.O. Box 917525Longwood, FL 32791(888) 88-NCBVAFax (407) 774-6751

For a NCBVA member in good standing, the Plant Certification Inspection fee is $1295.

National Concrete Burial Vault Association, Inc.Member Application for Plant Inspection

NCBVA Certified Vault Manufacturing Plants(Continued)

Pennsylvania Concrete Vault Co. Greensburg, PA Perfection Vault Woodson, ILPhenix Vault Phenix City, ALPioneer Vault, Inc. Doylestown, PAPoplar Bluff Doric Vaults, Inc. Poplar Bluff, MOPrecast Concrete Products, Inc. Blissfield, MI Precision Precast Inc. Pittsfield, MAQuality Burial Vault Co. Houston, TXRex Vault Service Newton, ILRocky Mountain Monument/Vault Sandy, UTRoland-Wilbert Vault Co. Clinton, IARoland-Wilbert Vault Co. Marion, IASaginaw Wilbert Vault Corp. Saginaw, MISam Green Vault Corp. Lynchburg, VASt. Louis Wilbert Vault Co. St. Louis, MO

Saline Vault Co. Sweet Springs, MOSanteiu Vaults Inc. Livonia, MISexton Wilbert Corporation Bloomington, INSheldon Vault Co. Sheldon, IAShore Vault & Precast Co. Exmore, VASimerly Concrete Products, Inc. Bristol, TNSimerly Vaults, Inc. Knoxville, TNSouthern Ohio Vault Co. Portsmouth, OHSouthern Vault Service Blakely, GASpoerr Precast Concrete Sandusky, OHSI Funeral Services Cedar Hill, TXSI Funeral Services Gerard, PASI Funeral Services Parsons, KSSI Funeral Services San Antonio, TXSunnycrest, Inc. Auburn, NY

Superior Burial Vaults, Inc. Salt Lake City, UTSuperior Vault Co. Bryantown, MDSuperior Vault Co. Charlestown, INSuperior Vault Co., Ltd. Mississauga, Ont., CanadaSwan’s Concrete Products Westbrook, METurner Vault Company Toledo, OHVanden Boomen Burial Vaults Inc. Appleton, WIVanden Boomen Burial Vaults Inc. Wausau, WIVincent & Son, Inc. Galena, ILWashington Wilbert Vault Works Inc. Laurel, MDWarga Concrete Products Inc. Fort Wayne, INWatts Vault & Monument Co. Des Moines, IAWayne Burial Vault Co., Inc. Indianapolis, INWelte Vault Co. Danbury, IAWest Plains Vault & Mfg. Co. Pomona, MO

Whitman Vault Co. Whitman, MAWicomico Vault Co., Inc. Salisbury, MD Wieser Precast Stewartville, MNWieser Doric Vault Co. LaCrescent, MNWilbert Burial Vault Co. Atlanta, GAWilbert Burial Vault Co. Waycross, GAWilbert Burial Vault Co. Muskegon, MIWilbert Burial Vault Co. Traverse City, MIWilbert Services Lancaster, NYWilbert Vaults of Houston, Inc. Houston, TXWillbee Concrete Products Jackson, MI Williams Wilbert Des Moines, IAWilliams Vault Company Emporia, VAWillmar Precast Co. Willmar, MNZeiser Wilbert Vault Co. Elmira, NY


We at the National Concrete Burial Vault Association Bulletin would love to hear from you. Please take a few minutes and send us a press release about your happenings. We’re interested in details about special events, individuals who deserve recognition, awards, and new services you are providing. Suppliers: let us know about your new products and services. Color or black and white photos are also welcome. Send to [email protected].

We Want to Hear From You!!

INDUSTRY CALENDAR

August 15-18CANA 94th Annual ConventionThe Westin BayshoreVancouver, BC, Canada

September 19-22Selected Independent Funeral Homes94th Annual MeetingThe Westin Copley PlaceBoston, MA

October 5-6Order of the Golden RuleFall ForumCharlotte, NC

October 7-10NFDA International Convention & ExpoCharlotte Convention CenterCharlotte, NC

October 17-19ICCFA Fall Management ConferenceArizona BiltmorePhoenix, AZ

November 5-6 Casket & Funeral Supply AssociationFall Conference & Trade ShowJW MarriottIndianapolis, IN

February 23-25, 2013NCBVA Annual Convention & ExpositionGaylord Palms ResortOrlando, FL

Matthews International Cremation Division Welcomes Newest MembersMatthews International Cremation Division announces the addi-tion of Patrick Turner and Dawn Heaton to the Urns and Memorial Arts Call Center. Both will be dedicated to selling memorialization products and servicing customers.

“The expansion of our Memorial Arts team further strengthens our ability to meet the needs of our customers,” noted Robert Beare, Division Manager of Sales and Marketing of North America for Matthews Cremation. “Patrick’s and Dawn’s comprehensive un-derstanding of sales and marketing will greatly benefit Matthews Cremation, our sales network, and our clients.”

Matthews provides the industry with distinct groups of combus-tion and environmental products and services.

Funeral Professionals Can Get Free Video To Educate Families on Committal ServicesWilbert Funeral Services, Inc. (WFSI) has a new video available at no charge to funeral professionals. “The Value of a Committal Service” is one of a series of videos WFSI has produced that helps funeral professionals educate families on funeral service options. A committal service can be one of the most poignant elements of a funeral service and families appreciate learning about this from their funeral professional.

“Ideally, the video is placed on funeral home websites for fami-lies to view before they come in for the arrangement conference,” said Wayne Stellmach, Director of Marketing for Wilbert Funeral Services. “Funeral professionals are encouraging families to watch the video in advance so that they get some ideas on committal service possibilities and can discuss them during the arrangement conference. However, this video has tremendous value even when viewed during the conference or for pre-need arrangements. It all goes to providing that meaningful experience for families.”

Wilbert has set up a dedicated website where this video can be viewed, downloaded, or linked to: www.wilbert.com/FPvideos.

INDUSTRY NEWS ’N NOTES

Equity Firm Acquires Aurora Casket Co.Aurora Casket Company, the largest independent supplier in funeral service, has been acquired by affiliates of Kohlberg & Company, L.L.C., a private equity firm based in Mount Kisco, NY. The company operates five manufacturing facilities in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1890, Aurora was privately owned through five generations by the Backman and Barrott families. This merger is expected to accelerate Aurora Casket’s growth.


Phone: 800-515-0400 Fax: 757-488-1589 www.acsupplies.com

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