February 12, 2026
When families in Alberta and Saskatchewan begin planning a memorial, one of the first decisions is choosing the right upright monument shape. Many want a meaningful tribute that reflects their loved one’s personality while also fitting local cemetery traditions. We help families understand their options so every decision feels clear and thoughtful.
Upright monuments remain one of the most chosen memorial styles in Western Canada. They stand beautifully above the landscape, with excellent visibility during snowy seasons and space for personal details that honour a loved one’s story. As a trusted cemetery monument company, we are proud to guide families in selecting the right shape for their needs.
Below are the top five upright monument shapes families choose in Alberta and Saskatchewan, based on our experience serving communities across both provinces.
The serp top is the most traditional and widely chosen shape. It features a smooth, curved top that brings a gentle and timeless appearance. Many families appreciate how the serp top balances beauty and heritage, especially for companion monuments in family plots.
Serp top monuments offer flexibility with granite colour and finish choices, and they suit both rural cemeteries and large urban memorial parks in cities like Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon, and Regina.
Flat top upright monuments provide a clean and modern look. The straight upper edge supports precise line engraving and strong visual presentation.
This shape is often selected by families who prefer a minimalist style that still offers presence and visibility. Flat top monuments pair well with polished finishes and can feature personalized artwork or lettering that remains highly legible over generations.
Oval or round top monuments have a soft silhouette that many families find comforting and peaceful. Their gentle curve creates a visually warm tribute that stands out without being ornate.
These monuments are well-suited for engraved portraits or symbolic artwork. We frequently see families choosing this style when honouring someone with a calm spirit or strong connection to nature.
Gothic-inspired designs add beautiful architectural character to a monument. The arched top draws the eye upward, symbolizing hope, spirituality, and remembrance.
This shape is often chosen in historic cemeteries or faith-based sections throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan. It provides a distinguished look that feels deeply rooted in tradition. Families who appreciate artistic detail often ask us about this option during their design consultation.
For some families, a custom shape feels right because it reflects a loved one’s individual personality, passions, or heritage. Custom monuments may incorporate unique profiles such as:
Every custom design must follow cemetery guidelines, and our team ensures that creativity and compliance come together seamlessly. These monuments allow families to create something truly one of a kind.
We encourage families to consider a few important points when making this decision:
Our job is to make each step easier. We explain shape differences, coordinate with the cemetery, and help families feel confident in their selection.
Across Alberta and Saskatchewan, upright monuments hold a significant role in memorial culture. Many families tell us they choose upright monuments because:
Upright monuments help families feel connected to loved ones during visits and ensure that future generations can continue to honour their names and memories.
Summit Memorials is a Canadian cemetery monument company trusted by families across Alberta and Saskatchewan. Our upright monuments are crafted from premium granite chosen for its long-term beauty and strength. Engraving is selected based on granite colour to ensure deep readability that lasts for life.
We also provide professional monument installation services that ensure stability, alignment, and respect for local cemetery guidelines.
Every family’s story is unique, and we are here to help you choose a meaningful upright monument that reflects your family’s wishes. Contact us now.
