The business of telling life stories in monuments in Little Falls continues a tradition going back to the 1800s and now harnesses modern technology to meld art and stone. For the people behind Little Falls Granite Works, crafting a memorial for a loved one becomes part of the healing process after a death and the granite becomes a lasting legacy.
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Scott (left) and Todd Nagel, along with partner Don Calhoun stepped into the family business continuing a tradition in a company that has been around for more than 100 years. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Raven Hokus, graphic designer/monument designer, works at her desk in the Little Falls Granite Works. "I like that I get to help people." Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Jamie LaDouceur operates the sandblaster, keeping track of two machines as they work. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Stones are prepared for final stages of being set, packed and shipped. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Ken Bergren expertly and quickly cuts through a stencil made of rubbery material by 3M that is used to set the engraving work for monuments. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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The traveler statue at the Little Falls Granite Works has a special meaning for the staff with its message of helping others on the way. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Nicole Meyer concentrates on a monument while working with the stencil material on the stone. Meyer is a shape carver. When flowers are created the stencil can be placed back on the stone and paint added to give depth to carved elements. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Charis Rudolph, quality/administrative assistant, said her work has taken her to nearly every part of the operation. "I love my job. It's very busy and very rewarding - start to finish." Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Tim Hanson, creates stencils used to outline work to be done in carving and engraving granite and is a laser operator. Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
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Raven Hokus, graphic designer/monument designer, works at her desk in the Little Falls Granite Works. "I like that I get to help people." Renee Richardson / Brainerd Dispatch
