With World War I right around the corner, J. Archibald Vondyke Belgrove, Joseph’s son took over the business. Poverty and poor living conditions abounded as the world was thrust into the Great Depression after WWI. Access to basic necessities was problematic; how could people even afford to bury the dead?

With exceptional customer service being his focus; Vondyke did what he knew was right; he provided free funeral services for many – despite the great financial loss. Through the difficult times, Von was able to retain his most important inheritance from his father – the desire to provide quality service to people in the community.

And so, despite the loss of physical wealth, by the time the economy improved post World War II, Vondyke’s business began to recover. He even introduced the first motorized funeral coach to South Trinidad.  Perseverance at its best!