In 1980, Gerry Jonas traveled to Barre, Vermont to learn the monument trade at Barre Tech Center. While there he learned all techniques from craftsmen who began their trade in the early 1800's. The curriculum ranged from labor intensive carving of shapes to the more progressive use of stencil for engraving. Upon his return home from Vermont, Gerry worked for a small monument company in his hometown of Cedar Grove, Indiana. A few years later, he and his wife (Tammy) decided to take a risk and start their own business. Jonas Memorial Arts opened its doors in 1985, and ran out of a small, rented garage in West Harrison, Indiana. They began with just a small display of inventory on the grounds outside. They worked hard to build a reputation of outstanding customer service, and eventually grew to expansion in 1993. The new facilities included a large indoor showroom and shop area, and remains the site for all steps of the production process to this day. Jonas Memorial Arts remains a small family-centered business, and continues to treat their customers like their own!