Heritage/ Suminski Funeral Home, originally the Philip J. Weiss Funeral Home Inc., stands as a testament to timeless elegance and thoughtful modernization. The historic building, designed by architects Leenhouts & Guthrie and built in the 1920s, has been meticulously preserved. It features exquisite woodwork, stucco, tiled fountains, and arched windows that enhance its architectural charm.
Throughout its history, the building has undergone several updates and additions. In 1940, an extension to the north was added, replacing the existing residence and barn on the site. In the mid to late 1990s, further renovations included an entrance off the private parking lot and handicap-accessible restrooms, ensuring modern accessibility.
In 2009, advanced technology was integrated to allow families to include video and slide shows in funeral services, which has been continually upgraded to meet modern standards. The funeral home has served thousands of families from all walks of life, including the original Jewish and Episcopal communities of the neighborhood in its early years.
In 1994, the Suminski Family Funeral Homes, established in 1915 and located a few blocks south on Brady Street, purchased the building. They continued to serve neighborhood families, as well as those previously served by Philip J. Weiss and Robert Kaufmann. In 2021, the Suminski Family merged with Heritage Funeral Homes, continuing a legacy of care and reverence.
Despite the many updates and changes over the years, the funeral home remains a cherished community location, offering modern amenities in a historic setting. It is a place where families have come for generations to honor and remember their loved ones.