Grave-marker support device

DETAILED DESCRIPTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a grave-marker support device that is easy to make, use, and install.
Another object of the present invention is to provide such a device that is a durable, one-piece structure.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide such a device that supports grave-markers against in-ground movement--especially against sinking.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide such a device that allows proper drainage of water from the device.
It is an object of the present invention to provide such a device that can be easily fabricated in a variety of colors and textures to blend in with the area surrounding the grave-marker if that is of interest.
These and other objectives are achieved in the present invention through the introduction of a unitary support device.
The device of the present invention includes a first portion that is formed in the shape of a basin and a second portion that forms a peripheral flange that surrounds the top-most edge of the first portion.
The walls of the first portion are preferably tapered inwardly so as to securely wedge a grave-marker therewithin.
This tapering and the flange allow the device to be placed into a hole having relatively inexact measurements.
In that way, the trim required to excavate the placement hole can be minimized.
The bottom of the first portion of the support device is substantially flat, although it preferably is tapered from the perimeter toward the center.
The bottom includes a central hole, and may optionally include other drainage holes, to allow water to drain therethrough.
The bottom also has channels radiating outward from the central hole.
These channels are designed to be pathways for water flow from the interior perimeter of the support to the central hole.
The channels also provide some structural integrity to the support.
Any channels may be used, although structural rigidity should be maintained and therefore limits the use of channels as well as the number of holes