After graduating from Widener University in 2010, I, Kyle Fricke, decided to work in the family business. Fricke Memorials, a legacy my grandfather Alan E. Fricke started out of his garage in 1946, had flourished under the care of my father, Tom Fricke, expanding to four locations across Long Island (Ronkonkoma, Medford, Center Moriches, and Jericho). The business, known for its dedication and quality, had cemented its reputation as a leader in the monument industry. For over a decade, I immersed myself in every aspect of the craft, learning the ins and outs of memorial creation with a passion that mirrored my predecessors.

 

However, as the world entered a new decade, it was met with unprecedented challenges. The advent of COVID-19 sent shockwaves through industries worldwide, and Fricke Memorials was no exception. Adapting to the new working conditions was tough, but necessary. In 2020, I transitioned to managing the business side of operations, a move that would soon prove pivotal.

 

By 2021, the monument industry was grappling with severe supply chain disruptions, both domestically and internationally. It was in this climate of uncertainty that I saw an opportunity. Breaking from the company's long-standing practice of sourcing domestically and through local distributors, I embarked on a mission to import stones directly from overseas. My first order from China was a resounding success, marking the beginning of a new era for Fricke Memorials. The introduction of new colors and high-quality stones sets a new standard in the industry.

 

My ambition didn't stop there. In 2023, alongside my father and sister, I founded Long Island Stone Imports, LLC., expanding the family's legacy into the international sphere. My trip to Orlando, Florida, for a stone convention, alongside my wife Nikki, opened yet another door. Making contacts and seeing the potential of new products led to a move that would revolutionize the monument industry.

 

The collaboration with a manufacturer in Pakistan, initially centered around mosaics, soon expanded to include urns. After numerous discussions and sharing ideas, the manufacturer and I conceived Memoriam, a venture born out of a shared vision to make a positive impact. Memoriam is more than just a business; it is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared ideals. It aims to serve generations, proving that even complete strangers from different corners of the globe could unite for a common good.

 

My journey, from learning the ropes at Fricke Memorials to spearheading international collaborations, underscores the importance of innovation, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt to change. Memoriam, a symbol of what can be achieved when diverse minds come together, stands as a beacon of hope. It's a reminder that collaboration and positive missions can indeed make the world a brighter place.