By Kari Carter
•
January 7, 2025
For over a century, Westbrock Funeral Home has been a cornerstone of compassionate service in Dayton, Ohio . Established in 1892 by Ben Westbrock , the funeral home has grown from a modest establishment on Wayne Avenue to a trusted name for families seeking meaningful ways to honor their loved ones. Today, the third and fourth generations of the Westbrock family proudly continue this legacy, offering personalized services rooted in care, respect, and personal connection. Our Legacy: A Rich History of Service Westbrock Funeral Home is more than just a funeral home; it is a piece of Dayton’s history . Founded by Ben Westbrock, who trained as an undertaker following the Civil War , the business began at the corner of Wayne Avenue and Pearl Street in 1892. Ten years later, Ben purchased his former employer’s establishment, solidifying his place in the community. In 1923, Ben acquired an elegant 1865 Italianate/Second Empire-style residence, originally built by Samuel D. Edgar as a wedding gift for his daughter. This historic home, perched atop a hill at 1712 Wayne Avenue, became the first modern funeral home in Dayton and remains a cherished landmark. In 1988, it was honored with placement on the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service. In 1992, Westbrock Funeral Home expanded with a second location in Kettering, extending its reach to serve even more families. With over 130 years of tradition, Westbrock Funeral Home stands as Dayton’s first funeral home, deeply woven into the fabric of the community. Traditional Funeral Services Designed for You At Westbrock Funeral Home, we understand the importance of providing a personalized and meaningful farewell. Our traditional services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each family, ensuring every detail reflects the life and legacy of your loved one. Visitation A visitation provides a time for family and friends to come together, share memories, and find comfort in one another’s presence. Our dedicated team works closely with families to personalize these gatherings, incorporating tribute videos, photographs, and mementos that capture the essence of your loved one’s life. This reflective time fosters healing and connection. Funeral Service Funeral services can be held at our historic chapel, a church, or any venue that is meaningful to your family. Whether your preferences include religious traditions, secular ceremonies, or celebrations of life, we collaborate with you to create a service that honors your loved one’s journey. For those seeking a non-religious service, our experienced life celebrants can craft and lead a meaningful tribute. Graveside Service A graveside or committal service offers an intimate setting for final goodbyes. These ceremonies can be part of a larger service or a private farewell, tailored to your wishes. At Westbrock Funeral Home, we are dedicated to ensuring this moment is respectful, heartfelt, and aligned with your family's traditions. A Legacy of Compassionate Care With two locations in Dayton and Kettering, Westbrock Funeral Home remains committed to serving families with dignity, care, and compassion. As a family-owned and operated business for four generations, we take pride in providing personalized attention during life's most challenging moments. The heritage of Westbrock Funeral Home reflects our dedication to the families we serve. From our historic Wayne Avenue location to our modern facility in Kettering, every service is designed to provide a comforting and meaningful experience. For more information about our traditional funeral services or to discuss how we can help honor your loved one’s memory, please visit Westbrock Funeral Home or contact us directly. Let us guide you in creating a tribute that celebrates a life well-lived.
