Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home has completed its new location, opening a brand new facility in Westphalia. The local business will celebrate with a grand opening event next Sunday, July 14, from 2 to 5 p.m.
The firm has been a part of the Osage County community for more than a half-century, but with the new facility, the Dulle-Trimble firm will be able to take care of its Osage County customers in a more convenient location.
"From the moment I bought the business in 1995 from the Dulle family, I have wanted to do something in Westphalia," said Kent Trimble, president of the firm. "The former building had become increasingly inadequate as needs of grieving families changed. I can't tell you how happy I am to be doing this. Osage county folks are among the nicest we have met, and we are grateful for their kindness to us over the last 18 years."
The new funeral home is located on eight acres of land at 1941 Highway 63. The 7,100 square foot building will incorporate a large foyer, arrangement office, family lounge, merchandise display area, video tribute screens and "an immense visitation area."
Trimble said he was pleased to have most of the work completed by local contractors and careful consideration and attention to detail went into designing the funeral home.
The design of the building includes a drive that goes all the way around to accommodate the funeral procession. "It will undoubtedly take us a few funerals to figure out how the building and grounds can best be used for the convenience and benefit of families," said Trimble.
The area outside the funeral home at both the entrance and the north side for the procession are covered to protect against inclement weather.
The Westphalia location will be operated as in the past, as a branch of the Jefferson City establishment. However, families can now make all the appropriate funeral arrangements right in Westphalia at the new location.
"Until now, people have had to come to our Jefferson City location to make funeral arrangements, but in the future all details and planning will be done in the new building," Trimble said.
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