Venrick-Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel

Venrick-Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel, located at 203 West Fillmore Avenue in DeWitt, Nebraska, is a cherished funeral home serving the community with dignity and compassion. This location is part of the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel family, a network of funeral homes with a rich history dating back to 1944 when Heath and Blanche Griffiths purchased the Bergmeyer Funeral Home in Beatrice, Nebraska. The Venrick Funeral Home in DeWitt was acquired by Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in 1972 from the Venrick family, specifically Virginia (Venrick) Petersen of Petersen Manufacturing. This acquisition expanded the family's reach and continued a legacy of personalized, respectful care for families during their time of need.

The facility itself features an on-site chapel designed for visitations, gatherings, and funeral services, providing a comfortable and welcoming environment. The chapel is wheelchair accessible, with a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring that all guests can participate fully. The funeral home offers cremation services as well as traditional burial options, and the facility is equipped with modern amenities to accommodate families. While the current Google Maps listing indicates the business is temporarily closed, the funeral home remains an integral part of the community, with ongoing services and obituaries being managed through the main Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel operation.

The Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel family is a multi-generational operation. Dick Hovendick joined the firm in 1960 alongside Heath and Blanche Griffiths, and his son Rich Hovendick became the third generation in 1978. Both are licensed funeral directors, embalmers, and pre-need salesmen. Samantha Thompson, the fourth generation, joined in 2016 as a licensed funeral director, embalmer, and pre-need salesperson. This continuity of family leadership ensures that each funeral home, including the DeWitt location, upholds the values of personalized, compassionate care.

The Venrick-Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel is more than a funeral home; it is a place where families can gather to honor their loved ones, share memories, and begin the healing process. The chapel provides a serene setting for both small and larger gatherings. The facility is also available for pre-planning arrangements, allowing individuals to make their wishes known in advance. With a reputation for professionalism and empathy, the Venrick-Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel continues to serve the DeWitt community and surrounding areas, offering guidance and support through every step of the funeral planning process. Whether through traditional services, cremation, or memorial ceremonies, the staff is dedicated to creating meaningful tributes that celebrate a life well-lived.