Lorne Raber CM of Eden Memorials in Winnipeg is the first one in Manitoba to introduce the latest technology in the memorial industry, called Smart Memorials. Smart Memorials allows family to truly remember their loved ones for generations to come, by using materials that are typically used for monuments (granite) with some of the newest innovations (2D Barcodes and online memorials). 

Smart TAGS are made from kiln-fired Italian ceramic porcelain and have a self-adhesive backing for easy mounting. They contain a personalized QR (Quick Response) barcode that, when scanned will instantly connect visitors to a personal memorial of pictures, memories, videos, and other genealogy documents. You can also view this memorial by typing in a unique web address into your internet browser anywhere in the world.

A QR Code is a 2-Dimensional barcode that can be read by any mobile device with a camera or barcode reading application installed.

"This means that a person visiting the grave of a deceased person can access all sorts of information about the deceased person, information that has been uploaded by the family. It means that a person's descendants will be able to learn instantaneously about their loved one who passed away generations ago. It will transform our experience at the cemetery," explains Raber, who said he heard about the technology at a recent convention.

Smart TAGS can be placed on new or existing cemetery headstones, memorials, museums, mausoleums, cremation urns, field stones, and anywhere else you would like.

"Smart TAGS are turning headstones into living memorials where family/friends/historians/or visitors can now be face to face with their ancestors; viewing their pictures, hearing their voices, and reading their legacy," adds Raber.

The use of QR Codes started in Japan and was created by Toyota subsidiary Denso-Wave in 1994.

In June 2011 when Yoav Medan’s mother Judith passed away, the Israel-based medical technology executive couldn’t decide what he wanted to write on her tombstone. After deliberating with his family, Medan decided to attach a QR code to the grave in Haifa, Israel - believed to be the first in Israel.

"It is an incredible invention," says Raber, "one which I believe is going to catch on, and I am excited and pleased to be the first in Manitoba to offer this cutting edge technology."

Imagine being able to open up a window into the past to see a quick video clip, hear the voice and browse through some photos of a dearly departed one. This is a wonderful way to leave a legacy from one generation to the next.

Raber plans to market the Smart TAG for approximately $300, a price that is very reasonable given the fact that it provides a living memorial for time immemorial!