Graciously serving families in the Elkhart community for over 150 years.
At Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home we take great pride in what we do. Our purpose is to:
History . . .
The firm itself has roots dating to 1854, when undertaker Andrew Stephens decided to abandon his furniture and cabinet business and quickly became known as “the only exclusive undertaker in the city”. The firm operated at several downtown locations until 1940 when former owner Adolph G. Zelle made a decision which would have influential implications – he moved the firm to the current and prestigious 403 W. Franklin Street location. Built circa 1870, the stately gray residence is one of Elkhart ’s early mansions boasting over 24 rooms.
Throughout the years, the owners have labored vigorously to preserve the historical accuracy and presence of the picturesque building. Extensive remodeling projects and several additions have since created a functional and impressive home for the Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman “family” with a formal chapel added in 1966, complete with pews and kneeling rails, pipe organ and a mini grand piano. The need for expansion and efficient use of the mansion prompted the addition in 1989 of an elevator tower accessing all four floors. The commercial elevator allowed increased accessibility for the disabled and increased the viewing areas by some 6,000 sq. feet. Also added during that project was the addition of handicapped accessible ramps, entrances and restrooms.
A continuing effort to uphold the impressive décor already in place is apparent in the interior decoration. Not far from the permanent chapel is the family room, which features a high vaulted ceiling. Accessible from the family room is an attractive screened porch decorated in a style harmonious to the rest of the funeral home’s historical setting. The fragile brass and glass oil coach lights from the funeral home’s 1840 antique horse drawn hearse grace one of the walls in the home, symbolizing the care and concern the staff shows for the community. Throughout the funeral home visitors may view many impressive displays of historical newspapers and Presidential Campaign memorabilia. Included, a Hall of Presidents which displays portraits of every U.S. President.
The historical setting and gracious accouterments of Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home reassure families they are getting the very best of funeral service. The firm, a place where families can find peace and reassurance, truly stands for excellence in funeral service in Elhart. The concept of total family service in a warm and dignified atmosphere clearly sets us apart from the average funeral home.
