HAPPY HOLIDAYS & BEST WISHES FOR 2025
OACFP PRESIDENT’S UPDATE
2024 HIGHLIGHTS
As we close the chapter on 2024 and look ahead to 2025 OACFP pauses to reflect on a year defined by progress, collaboration, and purpose This past year, we’ve worked together to address challenges, seize opportunities, and build a stronger community in the bereavement sector
HOLISTIC BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT & EDUCATION
Mark Richardson reflects on his 13-year tenure as Manager of Cemetery Services for Niagara Falls and his new role as Associate Director of Community Services for Thorold. Mark credits the Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP) with enriching his journey through support and guidance. As OACFP president, his goal is to inspire and uplift the community he now deeply values
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
PRESIDENT’S UPDATE
MARK RICHARDSON, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY SERIVCES, CITY OF THOROLD
HOLISTIC BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT & EDUCATION
As I continue to adapt to my role as President of the Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals (OACFP), I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. Our members’ work goes far beyond providing essential services—it’s about fostering holistic bereavement support that helps families, communities, and professionals navigate life’s toughest moments With growing recognition of the need for comprehensive care across workplaces, schools, and communities, we have an incredible opportunity to advocate for systemic approaches that identify and support grieving individuals, especially children As we embark on this journey together, I want to reflect on our shared vision for holistic and integrated bereavement services.
What is Holistic Bereavement Support?
Holistic care looks at the emotional, social, cultural, and practical sides of grief It’s about providing personalized, flexible support while helping individuals and communities navigate their unique grief journeys This approach doesn’t just serve the public it also highlights the importance of caring for the professionals, our members, who make this work happen
PRESIDENT’S UPDATE.....CONT.....
The Changing Landscape of Bereavement Care
The way society handles bereavement is shifting Workplaces, schools, and communities are starting to recognize the need for better support systems for those dealing with loss But grief is deeply personal and complex, requiring an approach that’s inclusive and compassionate.
Some of the challenges in supporting a holistic approach include:
Fewer Traditional Rituals: With fewer shared traditions, many people don’t have clear pathways to healing.
Shielding Children from Death: Avoiding discussions about death with children can leave them unprepared to process loss.
Insufficient Workplace and School Support: Many workplaces and schools lack the tools to properly support grieving individuals
For bereavement professionals, the emotional demands are significant Often stepping into informal counselling roles, they also need strong support to continue doing their vital work
OACFP’sPurpose:HowWeCanLeadtheWay
Ourmembersknowthatmeaningfulbereavementcaregoesbeyondtraditionalservices.Itinvolves:
RecognizingDiversity:Meetingtheuniqueneedsofeveryfamily
RebuildingCommunity:Helpingrestoresharedritualsandfosteringconnections.
ReducingStigma:Educatingcommunitiestopromoteunderstandingandcompassion.
Collaborating Across Sectors: Working with mental health, palliative care, and other professionals to enhancegriefsupport
ProvidingPracticalTools:Offeringresourcesandworkshopstoempowerfamiliesandcommunities
SupportingOurPeople:Ensuringemployeesandteammembershavetheresourcesandcaretheyneed tothrive.
PRESIDENT’S UPDATE.....CONT.....
OACFP’s Vision: Holistic and Integrated Bereavement Services
OACFP members envision a future where grief care is fully integrated into healthcare and community systems Advocacy is key to this vision, and together, we are dedicated to:
Protecting Consumer Rights: Ensuring families have access to fair, transparent services.
Shaping Public Policy: Advocating for policies that improve bereavement care and address sector challenges.
Raising Public Awareness: Educating communities on the value of holistic grief support Strengthening Professional Standards: Promoting best practices and ethical standards across the sector
Building Resilience in the Workforce: Providing education, leadership, and support to help employees and companies thrive.
OACFP members envision a future where grief care is fully integrated into healthcare and community systems.
I’m honoured to lead OACFP at this pivotal time and can’t wait to work with all of you to shape the future of bereavement care.
Together, we can build on recent achievements, like the development of OACFP’s value proposition and our “Leadership for Change in the Bereavement Sector Workplace,” fostering leaders who will help build psychologically healthy and safe workplaces and resilient employees. Help us make 2025 a year of progress, partnership, and purpose By advancing holistic bereavement care, we’ll not only support grieving families but also strengthen the professionals who serve them
I’m honoured to lead OACFP at this pivotal time and can’t wait to work with all of you to shape the future of bereavement care.
Drop me a line anytime
Mark Richardson, President Ontario Association of Cemetery & Funeral Professionals (OACFP) mark.richardson@thorold.ca
DARREN DENOMME EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
A YEAR OF GROWTH AND SHARED PURPOSE: REFLECTIONS AND OUTLOOK WITH DARREN DENOMME AND MARK RICHARDSON
As we close the chapter on 2024 and look ahead to 2025, I paused to reflect on a year defined by progress, collaboration, and purpose. This past year, we’ve worked together to address challenges, seize opportunities, and build a stronger community in the bereavement sector.
From groundbreaking educational initiatives to impactful advocacy and meaningful member engagement, we’ve achieved milestones that highlight the strength and resilience of our profession To discuss these accomplishments and share insights into the year ahead, I sat down with our President, Mark Richardson to discuss his thoughts as we move into 2025
Darren: Mark, 2024 has been an incredible year for the OACFP What stands out to you the most as we look back?
Mark: Darren, it’s hard to pinpoint just one thing because there’s been so much momentum But if I had to choose, I’d say the energy and dedication of our members stand out the most This year, we launched initiatives like the Common Ground podcast, expanded our educational offerings, and formed a Sustainability Committee These accomplishments show the commitment of our community to not only meet today’s challenges but also to create a vision for the future.
Darren: Education is always a cornerstone of the OACFP. What were some highlights for you this year?
Mark: Education continues to drive our mission. In 2024, we saw record attendance in our free to member webinars, hosted two front-line cemetery training sessions, continued our OACFP MBBA and celebrated over 150 participants completing the Trusted Advisor Training Program These programs don’t just build expertise they provide the tools our members need to offer the highest level of care and compassion to the families they serve
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.......
Darren: Advocacy is another critical focus for OACFP. What progress did the association make in this area?
Mark: Advocacy is at the heart of our efforts to support members and the families they serve This year, we made significant progress on the Priority of Persons legislation, pushing it closer to becoming law We also worked to address social service fees for assisted burials and funeral services, advocated for changes to the Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act, and called for solutions to the challenges of establishing new cemeteries These efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring equitable access to bereavement services across Ontario
Darren: Member engagement was strong this year, with a packed calendar of events What made these events so successful?
Mark: Our members are what make these events meaningful The Dine and Discover series, the sold-out Blue Jays social, and the Annual Charity Golf Tournament which raised over $32,000 for The Unforgettables Fund were all incredible successes because of the enthusiasm and shared purpose of everyone involved These events bring our community together to learn, connect, and give back
Darren: Looking ahead to 2025, what can members expect from the OACFP?
Mark: Our focus remains on education, advocacy, and sustainability. We’re expanding professional development opportunities, continuing our government relations work, and building on the momentum of the Sustainability Committee to support green practices in our sector. Ultimately, it’s about empowering our members with the resources they need to succeed and lead with purpose.
Darren: You’ve shared before how personal this work is to you. Can you speak to what motivates you in your role as President?
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.......
Darren: This year has been a testament to the strength of our profession and the critical role each of you plays in supporting families during life’s most profound moments Whether it was navigating changes in regulations, introducing new innovations in service delivery, or simply being there with empathy and care, you have once again demonstrated what it means to lead with compassion and professionalism
One of the highlights of 2024 was the deepening of our connections both locally and globally Through initiatives like our collaboration with international counterparts, we’ve gained invaluable insights into shared challenges and creative approaches that strengthen our collective expertise This spirit of partnership will continue to guide us as we embrace opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow together
At the OACFP, we remain committed to supporting you through education, advocacy, and resources that empower your work This year, we were proud to offer enhanced professional development opportunities, dynamic events, and the tools you need to succeed in an ever-evolving sector Your feedback, participation, and trust in our association have been the driving force behind these efforts
Looking ahead to 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to champion excellence in the bereavement sector. Together, we will continue to elevate standards, foster innovation, and ensure that families across Ontario receive the care and compassion they deserve.
On behalf of the OACFP Board and our entire team, I want to thank you for your commitment, your resilience, and your dedication to serving others. As the year draws to a close, I hope you find time to rest, reflect, and reconnect with loved ones.
Wishing you a peaceful holiday season and a new year filled with health, happiness, and continued success.
With gratitude and best wishes,
Darren Denomme, Executive Director
EDUCATION CORNER
A YEAR OF CONNECTION AND GROWTH: 2024 OACFP EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS
As 2024 draws to a close, the OACFP looks back on an incredible year filled with learning, growth, and opportunities to connect. Through a variety of webinars, workshops, and innovative programs, our members were equipped to grow, adapt, and lead in the dynamic bereavement sector.
Kicking Off with Insights and Innovation
The year began with energy and innovation On January 18, Dr Shannon Dawdy’s thought-provoking webinar, The New Death: From Diamonds to Compost, explored the evolving landscape of death care, igniting conversations around keepsakes, DIY rituals, and the decline of the traditional funeral model Just days later, Katherine Carre delivered an insightful session on the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA), sharing practical tips and best practices for transitioning under the new legislation
In February, technology took center stage with AI & Chat GPT Made Simple, presented by Fay Chapple and Stacy Maynard This session introduced members to artificial intelligence tools, demonstrating how to streamline operations and embrace the digital future
Celebrating Women and Leadership
March brought a spotlight on leadership with the 4th Annual Women’s Symposium at the New Haven Funeral Centre. Participants were inspired by keynote speakers like Professor Maja Jovanovic and Siobhan Calderbank, who addressed themes of allyship, gender bias, and bold leadership. The event highlighted the vital role of inclusivity in shaping the future of the bereavement sector. Thank you, New Haven, for your generous hospitality!
Diverse Educational Opportunities
Spring and summer were packed with diverse learning experiences March featured Erika Verret’s webinar on Conflict Resolution & Difficult Conversations, providing practical strategies for navigating workplace challenges April followed with the Cremation Symposium, where industry leaders such as Larry Stuart Jr , Poul Lemasters, and Dr Dirk Huyer explored cremation trends and challenges while offering core certification training for operators
KATE MCMASTER EDUCATION COORDINATOR
EDUCATION CORNER CONT...
June continued this momentum with Michelle Bird’s session on The Working for Workers Act, ensuring members stayed informed on new and upcoming legal changes A standout event was the Leadership for Change workshop, part of the OACFP-College Boreal NSERC project Offered in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association, this session provided managers with tools to build healthier, more resilient workplaces a vital focus in today’s bereavement sector Special thanks to College Boreal for hosting this session at their stunning Toronto campus in the Distillery District
July brought hands-on training with the Front Line Training program for cemetery and funeral director assistants This one-day event offered two tailored education streams, from cemetery operational best practices to enhancing funeral cultural protocols and customer service A heartfelt thank-you to our huge roster of speakers along with Highland Hills Funeral Centre & Cemetery and Highland Memory Gardens Mausoleum for hosting
Advancing Professional Development
As the year progressed, fall marked the launch of the second cohort of the Masters of Bereavement Business Administration (MBBA) program. Led by industry veterans Mary Magee and Terry Eccles, this 10-week virtual course offered participants sectorspecific insights into financial management, leadership, and strategy, earning rave reviews.
The Trusted Advisor training also gained momentum, certifying over 175 professionals by year’s end. Thanks to Codi Shewan for delivering this innovative program, which redefines the approach to arrangement conferences.
Our 2024 e-Learning Webinar Series thrived, covering consumer-focused topics like Dr Michelle Hilscher’s Behavioural Science and the Bereavement Sector and Jim Cassimatis’ BAO Registrar’s Update With these sessions offering funeral licensees six hours of continuing education credit in Category A, the series proved both popular and practical
EDUCATION CORNER CONT...
A Grand Finale
The year concluded in October with the Annual Conference and Trade Show at Caesar’s Windsor. Themed Influence & Impact: Crafting Your Brand, nearly 300 attendees gathered to hear from dynamic speakers like Pete Bombaci, Antonio Green, and Ryan Thogmartin. Sessions ranged from strategies for managing a multigenerational workforce to innovative social media approaches, leaving participants inspired to shape the future of the bereavement sector.
In November, the Cemetery Administration Program offered a deep dive into essential topics like community outreach, archaeological assessments, disaster preparedness, and by-law compliance A special thank-you to our long list of subject matter experts for their invaluable contributions
OACFP also had the privilege of delivering presentations to the Central Ontario Funeral Directors Association and the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks, and Treasurers of Ontario, sharing valuable knowledge with communities across the province If you’re interested in bringing an OACFP program or presentation to your staff or community, we’d love to hear from you!
Onward to 2025
As we look ahead, 2025 promises to be another exciting year. Plans are already underway for the 5th Annual Women’s Symposium, a new podcast series titled Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats and expanded Health & Safety training tailored for cemetery professionals.
We are deeply grateful to our Board of Directors, volunteers, sponsors, and members for making 2024 such a resounding success. Darren Denomme and Rachel Cleland – you two are champs! Thanks to all for your support and dedication. Here’s to an even brighter 2025!
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and a prosperous new year,
Kate McMaster
MARKING A MILESTONE: THE NORTH TORONTO CREMATORIUM OPENS IN GORMLEY
The OACFP is pleased to recognize the opening of the North Toronto Crematorium (NTC) in Gormley, a new facility designed to provide compassionate and sustainable end-of-life services for families in the region The opening ceremony, held in November, brought together local dignitaries, industry members, and community supporters to celebrate this significant addition to the bereavement care landscape.
The crematorium has been thoughtfully designed with sustainability as a guiding principle. Equipped with advanced emissions-control technology, the facility reduces its environmental impact while ensuring respectful cremation services Families are further supported by tranquil gathering spaces, including a ceremony area and private rooms for moments of reflection
During the ceremony, MPP Paul Calandra shared his appreciation for the team behind the project, including owner Eric Tappenden. "It’s not something we ever want to think about,” Calandra said, “but it is very good to know that when you have to, it is people like you and your family who will be at the other end of making sure that it is the easiest process possible ”
MARKING A MILESTONE: THE NORTH TORONTO CREMATORIUM OPENS IN GORMLEY
The OACFP extends its congratulations to the North Toronto Crematorium team for their thoughtful approach to meeting the needs of families while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Facilities like the NTC demonstrate how the bereavement sector continues to evolve to reflect modern values, providing care that is both innovative and sensitive.
We look forward to seeing how the NTC serves its community in the years to come and thank them for their contributions to advancing our shared mission of compassionate, respectful care.
Awards Presentation Updates
LIFE MEMBER AWARD - PRESENTED TO ANN HURDMAN
S red So he ber
The John Cleminson Award, established in 2006, honours the memory of a man deeply respected within our profession
This year, we are proud to recognize Jim Cardinal, retired from Cardinal Funeral Homes, as the award’s recipient Throughout his distinguished career, Jim has been an unwavering advocate for professionalism and has worked tirelessly to elevate the public’s perception of funeral service
Although Jim was unable to attend the conference, we extend our gratitude to Past President Jimmy Cardinal, who graciously accepted the award on his behalf and ensured it was presented to Jim personally at a recent family gathering
OACFP UPDATES & ARTICLES OF INTEREST
REMINDERS
A reminder that all those holding a personal funeral license (FD 1 or 2, Funeral Preplanner and Transfer Sales Representative) are required to complete a minimum of six (6) hours of continuing education each year. All OACFP education content qualifies for CE.
CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENT FOR FUNERAL LICENSEES
As an employee of an OACFP Member Company, you have access to our current year's eLearning Webinar series and our entire webinar library at no charge These are set up as separate courses in our new OACFP ACE platform with each webinar being a session in those courses The links to the three courses are belowPLEASE NOTE - LOGIN IS REQUIRED TO ACCESS AT NO CHARGE
2024 eLearning Webinars
2023 eLearning Webinars eLearning Recorded Webinar Presentations
We have also created a special year-end CE package (member & non-member fees apply) available here: 2024 Year End CE Package
If you have any issues navigating the site, we have instructional videos available New OACFP ACE Platform Demo & Help Videos are available on our YouTube Channel here: OACFP ACE VIDEOS
OACFP ACE - Instructions PDF
Membership Renewals Start in January
Please watch for notices regarding your membership renewal. These will be sent to the primary contact for your membership organization in midDecember with renewals beginning on January 1. If the primary contact for your organization has changed please contact the office at info@oacfp.com.
RESOURCES
FIVE WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH FROM HOLIDAY STRESS
MENTAL HEALTH FOR THE HOLIDAYS
MAKE SURE TO TAKE SOME TIME FOR YOURSELF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
IAN MERRITT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
We are pleased to once again open applications for the Ian Merritt Memorial Scholarship.
The Ian Merritt Memorial Scholarship recipient will be eligible to attend or enroll in any OACFP-related training or event. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses will be covered to attend in-person events. Registration and expense fees will be covered up to a maximum of $2,500. Recipient will have 2-years to take advantage of the full scholarship. Applications must be received by February 17, 2025. Submissions will be reviewed by the Awards and Nominating Committee with recommendations made to the Board of Directors.
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
FROM 2024
REGULAR MEMBERS
SALONS FUNÉRAIRES LAURENT HILL
BAY GARDENS FUNERAL HOME (ARBOR)
BAYVIEW CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUM (ARBOR)
CHAPEL RIDGE FUNERAL HOME
ST. JOHN'S CEMETERY ON THE HUMBER
OSTRANDER FUNERAL HOME
ELMWOOD CEMETERY
LIFE TRANSITIONS BURIAL AND CREMATION SERVICES INC.
HILLSIDE CEMETERY
TOWN OF IROQUOIS FALLS
HALLADAY BURIAL PLACE
SIOUX LOOKOUT FUNERAL HOME
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL R.C. CEMETERY
EVEREST OF THUNDER BAY
BEGGS FUNERAL HOME/MENARD
FUNERAL HOME/DRIFTWOOD
CREMATION
ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CEMETERY
ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF MARKHAM
TOWN OF GRIMSBY
CRYSTAL CREMATORIUM
DIOCESE OF ST. CATHARINES
SUPPLIER MEMBERS
ADVANCE BUSINESS SYSTEMS
NATIONAL BANK TRUST
PÉRENNIA
STARMARK LOCAL
BEGIN URNS
GOLDEN HORSHOE SERVICES LTD.
GRACE MONUMENTS IN YOUR CARE AWAKE
RHONDA HOUSTON
ORTHOMETALS
ROYAL FLORIST
AFFILIATE MEMBERS
10 - INDIVIDUAL AFFILIATE MEMBERS
STUDENT MEMBERS
20 - STUDENT MEMBERS
OACFP EDUCATION
DON’T FORGET ABOUT OTHER OACFP ONLINE EDUCTION OPPORTUNITIES AT OACFP ACE
The OACFP has long been a leader in providing quality education for all bereavement sector professionals.
We work in conjunction with all our members and sector stakeholders to provide Ontario’s bereavement professionals with the most up to date, relevant and cost-effective education and training possible.
The OACFP offers a wealth of resources for the bereavement professional and we pride ourselves on being ”A Unified Association of Bereavement Sector Professionals Providing a Support Network of Education and Resources.”
We offer a variety of online and on-demand education on our OACFP ACE Learning Management System. For information on how to access and navigate the system, check out the short videos below.
Part-Time Drivers & Crematorium Operators, Southwest Crematoriums
Embalmer - Tubman Funeral Home, Ottawa
Assistant Manager, Funeral Service - The Simple Alternative, Toronto
Funeral DirectorMcEachnie Funeral Home - Ajax, Ontario
Crematorium Operator - North Toronto Crematorium, Markham
OACFP & CHATTERHIGH
OACFP has worked with ChatterHigh to bring valuable information regarding a rewarding career in the bereavement sector to Ontario Educators. We ask our members to share this information with High School Guidance Departments in your area Click the banner on the left for more information
Travelling over the Holidays? OACFP has you covered with both hotel discounts from Hilton and car rentals from Avis/Budget and Park’N Fly Corporate Travel.
We’re excited to offer you and your business a review of new and existing benefits in our Member Benefit and Supplier Spotlight Webinar designed to help you maximize your membership and stay connected with the latest innovations in the bereavement sector
We have added many member benefits this year both for your business and your employees
Click the banner to the right to review the webinar
