The Independent - Fall 2021 by OrderOfTheGoldenRule

Fall 2021 | Volume 26 | Issue 4

Business Development:

401(k) Plans Aren't Just Good for Employees; They're Good for Business P.16

P.10

P.30

Do More for Veterans

Attract Disloyal Customers P.46

Fall Buyers Guide

The Independent® | Fall 2021 | Volume 26 | Issue 4

Table of Contents 5 |

President’s Message

6 |

Building a Stronger Future

8 |

Member Referrals

10 |

Do More to Honor Veterans

12 |

Member News

15 |

Holiday Season Grief Support

15 |

Community Outreach Program

16 |

401(k) Plans

20 |

Supplier News

22 |

Post-COVID Funeral Arrangements

27 |

International Perspective

30 |

Attracting Disloyal Customers

34 |

Above & Beyond

36 |

Member Spotlight: Infinity FH

40 |

In Memoriam

41 |

YP Spotlight: Kimberly Knight

43 |

Milestone Anniversaries

44 |

NFDA 'Best of the Best'

46 |

Fall Buyers Guide www.ogr.org | The Independent®

The Independent® is a benefit of membership in the International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR), a not-for-profit organization tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code, Federal ID No. 431828432. Published quarterly, The Independent® is mailed the first month of each new quarter. Non-member subscriptions (USD): One year: $40; two years: $60; single copy: $11.50. Send address changes to OGR, Attn: Mailing List, 3502 Woodview Trace, Ste. 300 Indianapolis, IN 46268. ©2021 International Order of the Golden Rule. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Founded in 1928, OGR is composed of independently owned and operated funeral homes located throughout North America and overseas. Editorial material and letters of opinion are invited. Published articles reflect the opinions of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Association. OGR reserves the right to edit all submitted materials and does not assume responsibility for unsolicited materials. For author guidelines, contact the editor, (800) 637-8030, or visit www.ogr.org.

— BOARD of DIRECTORS — President President-elect Secretary-Treasurer Immediate Past President Directors

Advertisers Index Access Financial Group...................................................................... 19 Chris Chigas, (800) 487-8220, ext. 8233 cc@afinancial.com | www.afinancial.com Answering Service for Directors........................................................... 20 Kevin Czachor, (800) 868-9950 sales@myasd.com | www.myasd.com The Dodge Company......................................................Inside Front Cover Timothy Collison, (800) 443-6343 tcollison@dodgeco.com | www.dodgeco.com EventLive.............................................................................................. 7 Julia Eskin, (786) 305-8530 julia@eventlive.pro | www.eventlive.pro

Evan J. Strong Paul A. Hummel, III Chris B. Miller Mary F. Steele Kim R. Hunter Raffy S. Jose Arianna Rule Peter A. Urban, Jr. Jamie L. Wieting

— STAFF — Executive Director/CEO Member Resources Director Education & Events Director Communications Director Meetings & Mem. Coord. Communications Coord. Member Services Coord.

Wendy King Nancy Weil Emilie Perkins, CAE, CMP Evan Hoffmeyer Alyssa Castille Catalina Gallegos Elly Wertz

Express Funeral Funding...................................................................... 14 John Goebel, (812) 949-9011 john@expff.com | www.expressfuneralfunding.com The Foresight Companies................................................................ 9, 52 Nicole Vullo, (602) 274-6464 nicole@theforesightcompanies.com | www.theforesightcompanies.com INEX, Inc............................................................................................ 35 Mike Burnett, (888) 829-8362 mike@inexinc.com | www.inexinc.com Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Solutions.................................................. 25 Marty Strohofer, (812) 926-5673 mstrohofer@matw.com | www.matw.com Nomis Publications............................................................................. 37 Peggy Rouzzo peggy@nomispublications.com | www.nomispublications.com Skyways Media................................................................................... 48 Garry Wayne, (289) 290-4409 garry@skyways-media.com | www.skyways-media.com

Advertising is accepted at the discretion of the publisher. The advertisement of any product or service in The Independent® does not represent an endorsement of such product or service by OGR. Call the communications department to reserve space or to request a rate card and mechanical specifications. OGR does not accept ads that discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, age, gender, disability or any other federally protected class.

Publisher

International Order of the Golden Rule 3502 Woodview Trace, Ste. 300 Indianapolis, IN 46268 phone: (800) 637-8030 fax: (512) 334-5514 email: info@ogr.org website: www.ogr.org

Starmark Cremation Products.............................................................. 39 Arie Elder, (765) 966-7676 arie.elder@starmarkcp.com | www.starmarkcp.com Thumbies........................................................................................... 57 Jennifer Myers, (877) 848-6243 jmyers@doughertyenterprises.com | www.thumbies.com Veterans Funeral Care......................................................................... 33 Jim Rudolph, (727) 524-9202 jimrudolph99@me.com | www.veteransfuneralcare.com/provider-network

4 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

The Independent® | Fall 2021 | Volume 26 | Issue 4

President’s Message

We can’t do this without you: 3 cheers for our suppliers!

hile I was attending university many years ago, I had a part-time job at a funeral home right across the street from campus. I was well-positioned in those days as I lived right across the street from the funeral home as well.

I think all of us have been saved by our suppliers many times in our careers when we have forgotten to order a casket, urn or keepsake. We have asked them to deliver on weekends and holidays and have expected them to fix and replace merchandise as if our firm is the only one in the world. They have allowed us to look like heroes to the families we serve, and many times have gotten us out of sticky situations. I think we all have basked in the glow of a family’s appreciation knowing it wasn’t just us who made things work.

I remember that about once a month the casket company guy would drop by and he and the manager, Frank Morris, would sit in the lounge, have a cup of coffee and talk. It seems they talked about a lot of things, from how the Maple Leafs and the Red Wings were doing, to their respective families and the latest gossip within the profession.

We funeral directors just have an expectation our suppliers will always be there, and we know they will! This gives us confidence we can serve our families and meet their needs. It is a nice feeling to have.

Times have changed. In many cases these visits with suppliers have been replaced with websites showing merchandise and supplies, online ordering and Zoom These “meetings” seemed to go on and on, and usually meetings to check in. However, the need for strong ended with a “see you next month” and the usual relationships hasn’t diminished over time and it is critiresponse back “not if I see you first.” As a youngster in cal that we maintain these connections with our supplithe profession, it always amazed me how the manager ers. We need to take the time to thank our suppliers, to and the salespeople could talk for hours, and not really support them and to realize and appreciate that when say anything. What I came to appreciate was the rela- we serve a family, they have been part of that process. tionship they had built over many conversations and I encourage all our members to take the time to celevisits. brate our suppliers and create positive working relaMr. Morris reminded me constantly that our profession tionships. I know I can’t serve my families without was built on relationships, and that we could not serve them (and I don’t mind a donut now and then!). our families without the suppliers. He called them the In service, “behind-the-scenes guys who make us look good.” He was a true gentleman in our profession, who served families in a gentle and unassuming manner for over 50 years. He was a good man, and I learned a lot from Evan J. Strong him. OGR President, 2021-22 As my career carried on, I came to appreciate the suppliers, these “behind-the-scenes guys.” They were always just a call away, and I remember many times they would drop by with their various products, supplies and a box of Tim Hortons donuts. www.ogr.org | The Independent®

OGR News

Building a stronger future by Wendy King, OGR Executive Director & CEO

ou may have noticed in OGR’s InSights newsletter we’re starting to see more frequent notifications of new members joining your association, as well as new and improved member benefits.

• Offered a virtual OGR celebration program. This made it possible for every member to attend and celebrate membership milestones, remembrances and our award winners. • Developed a new onboarding process to better engage new members during their first six months of their membership.

These are not outliers, but the first fruits of the labor put in by your board of directors as they work to build on the strong, nearly century-long foundation OGR has as an association to make it an even better professional home Programming Excellence for independent funeral homes and their employees. GOAL: OGR programming will be considered the OGR is now nine months into a three-year strategic industry standard for innovation as evidence by: plan with three areas of focus: Membership, Program• Educational and events programming that is ming and Brand Identity. The plan provides a blueprint considered consistently relevant to independent for action to enhance professional development and funeral home professionals benefits offerings, member and supplier engagement, • Programs that are accessible to a global audience brand alignment and fiscal sustainability. • Professional development opportunities that I’m excited to share the plan with you and a snapshot are sought after by independent funeral home of some of the strides we have already made as a result. professionals Membership Enrichment & Growth • Members who attribute OGR’s contributions toward their success GOAL: OGR will be the preeminent membership association for independently owned and operated PROGRESS: funeral homes, providing indisputable member value • Added two additional study groups, one on the as evidenced by: East Coast and one on the West Coast. These study groups will join our North America and Global • Relevant engagement opportunities for all members study groups in offering members the opportunity to • Diversity of size, geographic location, and services learn from their colleagues in small group settings. of member firms • Made it easier for Young Professionals to meet by • Diversity of age, gender, ethnicity and culture of offering three locations to choose from for the YP engaged funeral professionals among member firms Leadership Summit. These regional gatherings tack• Access to competitive business services through led current issues they face in the funeral profession. dynamic supply partner relationships • Created an online Learning Library where PROGRESS: members can access webinars and other learning opportunities 24/7, when it is convenient for them. • Redefined OGR volunteer opportunities, making • Designed a webinar series that tackled important it easier for members to utilize their time and HR and workplace topics, showing members that talents in a way that suits you. Now, time commitOGR is willing to have tough conversations in ments for volunteering can be as little as one hour order to provide them with the practical advice of your time. needed to thrive. 6 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

OGR News

Brand Identity

made since January, but know we have a lot of work yet to do. Ongoing and honest input from our members is essential to the successful execution of the strategic plan.

GOAL: OGR will be considered an industry mark of excellence as evidenced by: • Positive recognition of OGR throughout the In keeping with that spirit, I encourage you to share your thoughts on OGR’s strategic plan, our perforfuneral care industry mance and your needs as a member. You can reach me • Consistent standards of service by all OGR members at WKing@OGR.org or (512) 334-5504, ext. 140. I look • An increased number of firms seeking affiliation forward to hearing from you on how we can serve you with OGR as you serve your client families. • An increased consumer recognition of the value of working with OGR firms As OGR's executive director/CEO, PROGRESS: Wendy brings with her a 30+ year • Produced a six-part member-hosted podcast series passion for helping associations, featuring a diverse group of guests. The podcast non-profits and government enis accessible to members, non-members and the tities succeed. Over the years she general public. has gained a unique perspective • Engaged a variety of guest members to author artiand business insight through her cles for OGR’s blog and The Independent® magazine. work with organizations such as the American Heart Association, and • Redesigned OGR’s website to make it easier for World Police & Fire Games. Two of members and the public to navigate. her favorite things to do are meet new people and bring I am proud of the progress our organization has already together individuals in order to achieve a common goal.

www.ogr.org | The Independent®

Membership

Topic Header

We're asking by Nancy Weil, OGR Member Resources Director

ale Carnegie said, “91% will give referrals if asked; only 11% ask.” So, we are asking. We are asking you, our member, to help OGR grow by spreading the word to other funeral directors about all the good things going on at OGR. We hope you have been taking advantage of your member benefits. If not, we need to talk. Just give us a call and we will match you with the programs that best fit your needs. The addition of new staff members has brought new ideas and approaches in ways to offer you programs that fit your busy schedule. Through our Learning Library, educational programs are now available 24/7 for you and your entire staff. Virtual conferences have allowed members to network without leaving home. Our member-hosted podcast series is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music and Audible so you can listen during your morning run (or coffee run!).

It's more important than ever for independent funeral homes to organize to protect their interests and lend assistance to each other. OGR is at the front of this effort. Bob Healy Healy Chapel, Aurora, Ill. 8 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

The only thing that has and will never change is the dedication OGR has to you, the independent funeral director. Everything we do is focused on finding ways to support you and your funeral home so you can grow both professionally and financially. You support the mission of OGR through your membership; now we humbly ask you to share us with those you know. Best of all, as OGR grows you benefit as well. New members mean more peers who can join in study groups, roundtables and networking events. New members mean more attendees at conferences, both in-person and virtual, leading to more robust discussions. New members mean the opportunity for new friendships being formed. Please keep OGR top-of-mind when you are at your state funeral directors association meetings or at NFDA’s convention in Nashville. We will happily provide you with business cards you can hand out so they know who to contact at OGR for more information. If you open the door, we promise to follow-up. Mark Zuckerberg said, “People influence people. Nothing influences people more than a recommendation from a trusted friend.” Serving as OGR’s member resources director, Grief Support program facilitator and supply partner liaison, Nancy brings her years of experience working in the funeral industry to our members. A national speaker and trainer with certifications as a Grief Services Provider, Funeral Celebrant, Soul Injury Ambassador and Laughter Leader, Nancy is uniquely qualified to bring new perspectives into how to best meet the needs of the families you serve. You can reach Nancy at (512) 334-5504, ext. 304 or NWeil@OGR.org

Are you prepared for your succession? You have questions. Foresight has answers. WE GUIDE YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

800-426-0165 info@theforesightcompanies.com www.theforesightcompanies.com

www.ogr.org | The Independent®

Is there more you can do to honor veterans beyond November 11? by NancyWeil, Member Resources Director

Member Spotlight

Veterans

ovember 11 is a day set aside to honor those who have served in the United States armed forces. What began on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month as Armistice Day, has evolved over the years to include all veterans.

There is so much you can do for veterans that goes beyond what the typical funeral home provides. Make this year the Veterans Day when you can share with your community all of the ways, both old and new, your funeral home takes care of veterans and their family. OGR and Jim Rudolph of Veterans Funeral Care It is a day of ceremony and parades. On the Veterans in Clearwater, Florida, are ready to help you make that Administration website, it is heralded as “a celebration happen. Watch the VFC Workshop, available now in to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love OGR’s Learning Library, to learn what steps to take to of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the engage veterans not just on November 11, but every common good.” day of the year. Perhaps you assist with your town’s Veterans Day events. You may even host something through your funeral home, or publish online or in the local newspaper a list of veterans you served that year. November If you take both parts of theVFC workshop, 11 and the days around it can be quite busy for many you may be eligible to join the Veterans funeral homes. Funreal Care Provider Network, entitling However, it is what you do on the other 364 days of the year where you have the opportunity to continue to honor those who have served. Arranging military honors, listing veteran resources on your website and assisting families in the necessary paperwork to handle a veteran’s funeral is all necessary, appreciated and expected of funeral homes. But do you go the extra step for veterans? Do you even know what that would look like? Consider the look on a child’s face when you take a look at their parent’s DD214, share that their father was awarded a Bronze Star and then explain what that means. If a Navy Captain calls your funeral home, do you understand how that rank differs from a captain in the Army? Are you able to capture that funeral when a widow calls to tell you that her husband was a UDT and you respond, “It would be an honor to take care of an old frogman”? Take a look at your veterans benefits sheets and consider when was the last time these prices were updated and you reviewed it with your staff. Knowing what the VA will pay a veteran’s family to help offset funeral costs and sharing this information with the family can alleviate some of their stress. Even better: Pick up the phone and help them make an appointment with their local Veterans Services Office so they can fill out the paperwork needed in order to receive this money.

you to even more resources and exclusive programs. Learn more at OGR.org/VFC

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www.ogr.org | The Independent® 11

Member News

News from Golden Rule Funeral Homes OGR welcomes 2 new funeral homes, 2 expansions & 4 new student members

operated funeral homes you would like to see join the association, contact Nancy Weil at NWeil@OGR.org.

We always like to celebrate the next generation of funeral directors, so be sure to welcome Amy Chmiel of the American Academy McAllister Institute, Christopher Frushon of the Pittsburgh Institute for MortuIndiana Funeral Care, owned by David Ring, joined ary Science, Korynn Harris of Ogeechee Technical Aug. 3 with two locations, one in Indianapolis and College and Lisa Roebbelen who all joined OGR as another in the suburb of Greenwood, Indiana. You may student members. have already met manager Sara Thompson online as she participated in a number of OGR's virtual education opportunities in the leadup to joining. Thorson-Popp Funeral and Cremation Services, owned by Dr. Nathan Popp, in Viroqua, Wisconsin, joined Aug. 2. Congratulations to Geri Oliverie, this year's Golden Light Award recipient, on the opening of Oliverie Funeral Home's new Life Celebration Funeral Home in Jackson, New Jersey. Best wishes also go out to Jim Rudolph of Veterans Funeral Care, who opened Best Care Cremation in Clearwater, Florida, in July. Both of these new locations now also join the OGR family.

Bellevue Memorial Chapel gives fellow OGR member helping hand

The affiliate location of Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler Mortuaries in Bellevue, Nebraska, assisted fellow OGR members Terry and Diane Plummer recently. David Stranglen met them after-hours and sheltered a casketed remains overnight at the funeral home. The Plummers made a 12 ½ hour road trip to bring this woman to her final resting place and having the assistance of a fellow member made this possible. As Terry put it, “Another case of the value of the OGR family network.”

2 members change ownership Jim Rudolph's Best Care Cremation in Clearwater, Fla. (photo courtesy Jim Rudolph)

In addition to congratulating Jim on his new location, we also want to thank him for referring Anderson Family Funeral Home, Indiana Funeral Care and Infinity Funeral Home to OGR. Referrals from existing members are our best avenue to growing the association. If you know any independently owned and 12 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Welcome to Jason & Genia Horn, new owners of Nail-Haggard Funeral Home in Daingerfield, Texas. Jason worked for OGR member Rader Funeral Home in Texas before purchasing Nail-Haggard, which will celebrate 54 years of OGR membership in November. Congratulations also go out to David Work, new owner of Russell Colonial Funeral Home in Saint Clair, Missouri. The name may sound familiar as he also owns Jay B. Smith Funeral Homes in Fenton and St. Louis, Missouri.

Member News

News from Golden Rule Funeral Homes Anderson opens new crematory Anderson Family Funeral Home in Cresson, Pennsylvania, which just joined OGR this year, recently opened up their new crematory. The design allows families to have a final, private goodbye, as well as view the start of the cremation process.

2 members win public-vote awards Parthemore Funeral Home in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, was voted "Simply the Best" in Harris- The Anderson Family Funeral Home opened their new crematory in Cresburg Magazine's 2021 reader's poll. They have won son, Penn. (photo courtesy Anderson Family Funeral Home) this honor multiple times. The funeral home is very involved in the community, helping local businesses and sponsoring events such as “Ride & Park”, their local R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home in Hampton, Apple Festival and a recycled bicycle event. Virginia, recently celebrated their 120th anniversary. Updike Funeral Home in Beford, Virginia, was voted The funeral home was founded in 1901 and has been in Reader’s Choice Favorite Funeral Home. Updike's the family for six generations. business has grown this year, leading to more families Leete-Stevens Family Funeral Home in Enfield, getting to know the staff and outstanding services they Connecticut, recently celebrated their 140th anniverprovide. They are the only funeral home in the area sary. The funeral home was founded in 1881 and has with an aftercare program. Families also appreciate been in the family for four generations. receiving a laminated bookmark with their loved one’s obituary.

Milestone anniversaries

Pray buries newly identified Medal of Honor recipient The OGR member in Charlotte, Michigan was honored to conduct the funeral service for Ensign Francis Flaherty. Flaherty died in the attack on Pearl Harbor while serving on the USS Oklahoma and was awarded the Medal of Honor. His remains were recently identified and could finally be returned to his hometown for burial in his family’s plot. Full military honors were provided, and the entire town was invited to attend and welcome back their hometown hero.

Community events

Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home in Orchard Park, New York, held their annual butterfly release remembrance ceremony in July. Five hundred people attended the event, now in its 20th year. Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, is hosting a monthly Coffee + Cars event at their Clifford Mini Auto Museum, featuring a collection of cars and memorabilia started by Clifford-Shoemaker and housed in an old gas station next to the funeral home. They also create and distribute over 2,000 calendars filled with classic car photos in their community. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 13

14 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Membership

Member Resources

This holiday season, offer the gift of grief support

y Halloween, the Christmas displays are up in stores and those who have lost a loved one begin to dread the holiday season. While you may offer a holiday remembrance service or mark the season another way, why not offer something that lasts all year long? The Hope After Heartache grief support group is a virtual support group that meets twice a month on Zoom. OGR Member Resources Director Nancy Weil is a Certified Grief Management Specialist who has run grief support programs for over 16 years. This virtual group has been meeting for two years, with one participant saying, “After the meeting, I felt a little less alone in what I’m going through and this morning I felt a drop of hope. I’m looking forward to the next meeting.”

You will receive a templated outreach letter you can tailor for your funeral home and mail to every family you have served in 2021. Additional grief support materials are also provided, including the printable brochure “When the Holidays are Not So Happy.” All of this is available at no charge to you or to those who attend the program. To get started, contact Nancy Weil at NWeil@OGR.org or (512) 334-5504, ext. 304.

Learn more about this and other free member resources at OGR.org/Resources

OGR's Community Outreach Program now available for your FD associations What could be better than getting free, positive publicity? television and radio. Her system works and now she is Getting continuing education credits for learning how! sharing with you the steps to take in order to assist your community, raise awareness of your funeral home and All funeral director associations now have access to this prepare for your moment in the spotlight. presentation provided at no charge by OGR, available as a 30-minute video presentation, a 60-minute video We’ve mailed the details to each state FDA as well as with live Q&A or an in-person event. some Canadian and independent associations, so please help us with the next step and contact your FDA to ask OGR Member Resources Director Nancy Weil has them to offer this valuable program to their members. drawn on her years of experience creating community outreach events for the cemeteries and funeral homes For more information, contact Nancy at NWeil@OGR.org where she has worked to get news coverage in print, or (512) 334-5504, ext. 304. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 15

401(k) plans: Good for employees and owners alike by Chris Chigas, Access Financial

401(k) is how most Americans save for retirement, but many business owners think that a small business retirement plan is too expensive, too hard to manage or not valued by employees. However, more than half of small business owners say offering a 401(k) plan attracts better employees, according to a CNBC small business survey. They also note that nearly 25% of departing employees cite a lack of retirement benefits as part of the reason for leaving.

and employers. Employees can contribute tax-deferred money into the plan, which lowers their current taxes. The money will not be taxed until the employee takes a distribution, possibly many years from now. Employers have benefits as well. Contributions made to employees through matching or profit-sharing can be deducted as a business expense. Money set aside by employees into a 401(k) does not have FICA tax applied to it, saving the employer even more.

Attracting and keeping good employees

To match or not to match

Retirement benefits have become more important to employees. One study found that 68% of potential new hires ask whether a company has a retirement plan. The majority of potential new hires and existing employees seriously consider the availability of a retirement plan when deciding to accept or to remain in a position.

Employers are not required to match employee contributions but it’s a good idea. Matching contributions create goodwill with your employees and have the benefit of reducing the employer’s tax liability. Vesting schedules can be built in to restrict the availability of employer funds to a departing employee, thus creating “golden handcuffs.” Some companies offer profit-sharing contributions to employees, creating a benefit for hard work and loyalty.

Tax benefits 401(k) plans may offer tax advantages to both employees 16 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Deferral limits A big selling point for most owners offering a Traditional 401(k) over a Simple 401(k) or IRA is the higher contribution limits. For 2021, the limit for 401(k) employee elective deferrals is $19,500. If you are over age 50, you can add an additional $6,500 in “catch-up” contributions, for a total of $26,000. Compare this to a Simple 401(k) with limits of $13,500 and $3,000 respectively for a total of $16,500. Contributions to an IRA are limited to $6,000 with an additional $1,000 for those over age 50. Some of these limits may be predicated on IRS testing.

Additional savings for an owner In most small businesses the owners have the lion’s share of the total invested balance in the plan. As such, if the expenses of the plan are applied to the plan’s assets, the owner’s retirement money pays more of the costs. We suggest owners write a check for the plan expenses

The biggest benefit for me is the plan will help to attract and retain valuable employees while contributing to their longevity with our firm. Jeff Wages Wages & Sons Funeral Home Lawrenceville, Ga. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 17

Retirement

Topic Header

instead of deducting the expenses from contributions. The retirement plan not only allows the employer to This allows for a business deduction today, while not claim tax deductions for contributions but also serves as reducing the value of tomorrow’s retirement asset. a means of attracting and keeping valuable employees.

Access Financial’s 401(k) program is very affordable with low costs to start the plan and to maintain it.

If you’re interested in a 401(k) for your business, consider the Golden Rule 401(k). The plan is a cost-effective, easyto-use retirement program. Contact Chris Chigas of Access Financial Group at (312) 655-8233.

Kevin Opsahl Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home,Yankton, S.D.

Chris Chigas has been helping funeral directors and small businesses be more successful with their retirement planning for more than 30 years. He is Owners need retirement savings, too the president of Access Financial Group, a registered Providing a 401(k) is not only beneficial to employees, investment advisor and holds many securities licenses. but also to owners. At this time, nearly half of small business owners are saving less than 10% of their Access Financial Group Interment Trust income for retirement. Even more surprising, 25% are Services is an OGR Endorsed Supplier. not saving anything at all. Instead of saving for retirement many small business owners are counting on the sale of their business to fund their retirement. Selling a business to fund retirement runs the risk of being financially under-prepared at the point in time where there is little time left to invest in savings. Certainly, the sale of a business can be a significant source of retirement savings, if you receive the price you need. However, it can be a risky strategy if you think it will be the sole source of your retirement monies. Choosing a retirement plan is one of the most important financial decisions a business owner will make for their business.

18 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

They offer exclusive pricing to OGR members when entering the Golden Rule 401(k) program. Learn more from Chris Chigas at (312) 655-8233 or CC@AFinancial.com

www.ogr.org | The Independent® 19

Supplier News

OGR welcomes 2 new supply partners Floracracy

LIG Solutions

With small or virtual funerals, grieving family members participating remotely and a new survey showing families value receiving personalized letters and flowers after the ceremony, Floracracy helps funeral homes send personalized letters and flowers anywhere in the U.S. to family members at the time of the funeral or in the months after it. Indeed, the most powerful gift we can give someone is a personal letter that shares meaningful stories, but most people aren’t sure how to write them. Through our free content or a broader partnership, we can help you be sure your families receive the emotional support they need.

As a nationally recognized insurance agency since 2009, LIG Solutions changes the way individuals, families, businesses and groups across the country shop and enroll in healthcare products. LIG specializes in offering comprehensive, turn-key insurance solutions for associations, societies, membership organizations, NGB and other affinity groups to deliver member benefit programs around health coverage. With more than 30 years of combined experience in the health, life and Medicare insurance industries, LIG has distributed more than 1.2 million insurance policies. LIG has partnerships with national, regional and local insurance carriers across the country. We deliver member benefit programs centered on health and wellness initiatives to drive retention and engagement with the communities they serve.

OGR member benefits: • brochures and free content around floral meanings you can share with families • 10% commission on any sale or special partner package Sarah-Eva Marchese Sarah-Eva@Floracracy.com Floracracy.com/pages/loss

Want to see your company’s news featured here? OGR Supply Partners are invited to send your press releases and other company updates to Communications Director Evan Hoffmeyer at EHoffmeyer@OGR.org for inclusion here and on our blog at OGR.org.

LIGmarketing@LighthouseQuotes.com LIGmembers.com/OGR (855) 594-7254

FUNERAL PROFESSIONALS

NOT ONLY

ESSENTIAL BUT ALSO

EXCEPTIONAL Thank You

1-800-868-9950 20 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

myASD.com

Supplier News

News from OGR’s Supplier Network YourSocialStrategy.com introduces all-inclusive Each clip holds up to ten folded bills and six – eight cards. funeral home marketing program - FuneralClicks.com Available for $199. The Thumbuddies pendant line now is a comprehensive digital marketing package that has been carefully crafted for funeral homes to include all of the key services you need to excel in the online world today. From search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing and review management services, to Google Ads management and content marketing. It also includes a semi-exclusive offer through an at-need lead generation platform. Owner and founder Mike Hepburn discusses the importance of digital marketing for funeral homes, and offers ideas of low-cost or even free opportunities, in episode 2 of OGR's podcast at OGR.org/DDS. FuneralClicks.com | Mabrey

Products releases new pricing list - The new pricing list is now available. Contact Doug Tobey to receive your copy. Doug@MabreyProducts.com | APPI Energy launches new website - The new online home of Affiliated Power Purchasers International is up and running. Explore at your convenience. APPIenergy.com | Express Funeral Funding acquires We Fund Funerals - “We Fund Funerals is a premier provider. They have always been highly commended for their unique customer service experience. We are thrilled to have aligned with such a great company and are happy to welcome them to the EFF family.” said Andy Buckman, vice president of sales and marketing for Express Funeral Funding. Both companies share a similar mission and are dedicated to providing an even greater experience to the funeral homes and cemeteries they serve nationwide. The respective companies will manage any immediate sales and customer service inquiries. Reach Express Funeral Funding at 812.949.9011 or contact@expff.com, and We Fund Funerals at 954.357.3863 or directors@wefundfunerals.com. ExpressFuneralFunding.com | Thumbies introduces

new money clip keepsake, expands Thumbuddies line - The personalized money clips are made from

American stainless steel and held together by a heat-treated spring that is guaranteed not to break or stretch out. Each money clip is hand-built and polished in the United States. The submitted print and inscription are laser-engraved onto the retractable slide bars for a personal memento that you can always see and feel, and come with two lines of engraved text.

includes the option for keepsakes made in the shape of a cat or dog. Existing options include a teddy bear, kangaroo, mouse, monkey, turtle and dragon. Cast in bronze, all pendants are plated in rhodium and hand-polished so they're ready to wear immediately upon arrival. Available for $49. Thumbies.com

| Bogati Urn Company ranks 3557 on 2021 Inc.

5000 - The magazine's listing is considered the most presti-

gious ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. This year's list added more than 610,000 over the past three years. Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000. Bogati Urn Company also celebrated three-year revenue growth of 96%. BogatiUrns.com | John 'Jack' Kleis joins Dodge Company's sales team - Over the past 20 years, the Massachusetts native has done everything for Dodge from R&D to managing the non-stock Dropship and Engraving departments and even working the technical support line. "I know he will put the same energy and determination into his new position as he has since the first time he walked in the door at the Cambridge office," said Tim Collison, Dodge’s chief operating officer. DodgeCo.com | FREE webinar series from YourSocialStrategy.com - A new webinar will hit each month, focused on answering your questions about digital marketing. To stay informed about the series, follow YourSocialStrategy.com on Facebook or email Mike Hepburn to receive their monthly newsletter. Mike@YourSocialStrategy.com | Thumbies unveils new line of cigar cutters - There are two variations to choose from: the Viper and the Deception. The Viper has a sleek design that contains a 64-ring gauge and a springloaded, v-cut blade; the Deception has a more classic style, with a 62-ring gauge and dual serrated blades. Both are available to be personalized by embedding the print of a client’s loved one (fingerprint, handprint, footprint) or pet (paw print, nose print) within the metal casing using Thumbies’ signature engraving method. Clients can personalize their cigar cutter even further with two lines of engraved text for a short message to accompany their engraved print. Thumbies.com

www.ogr.org | The Independent® 21

22 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

How the pandemic has changed funeral arrangements by Marty Strohofer, Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Solutions

he COVID-19 pandemic has changed many The new ‘normal’ facets of our lives. That includes changes in how we, as consumers, shop for and purchase goods Now that many retail establishments have re-opened their doors to in-person shopping and dining, have we and services, which in turn change funeral service. all abandoned the online or remote services that we As the pandemic caused many retail establishments to grew to rely upon during the pandemic? Of course not. curtail or eliminate in-person shopping, dining and other services, more and more American consumers We discovered that Zoom meetings can be quite effecbegan to utilize alternative sources to receive goods and tive and time-saving. Though not as often, I still use food delivery services from time to time. services. While food and grocery delivery services existed I participated in OGR’s recent Virtual Leadership before the pandemic, many consumers, like me, began Summit roundtable discussion where funeral service to shop and purchase using these methods more than panelists were asked, “What do you think will be the ever before. I had never “DoorDash-ed” prior to the one big change during the pandemic that will stay with pandemic, or had my groceries delivered from my us?” online “Click List.”

I even had a remote doctor’s appointment for my son, with my smartphone camera serving as the doctor’s eyes into my son’s sore throat. Most businesses had to adapt to a new way of offering, selling and providing services to their customers, and funeral service providers were no different. As the pandemic spread throughout the country, many funeral professionals were quickly scrambling to create online selection rooms for funeral merchandise.

Each panelist echoed the same response: Consumers will continue to expect more technology-driven services in the form of online arranging and planning and online access to funeral and memorial events via livestreaming. A recent consumer study from The Foresight Companies (2020 Foresight Funeral and Cemetery Consumer Behavior Study) confirmed this belief. In the 2020 study, 46% of consumers surveyed indicated they plan to handle deathcare arrangements virtually. Think about that for a moment. Are you prepared for half your arrangements to be done online?

www.ogr.org www.ogr.org | The | The Independent® Independent® 23

Technology In the same survey, 74% of consumers indicated they want access to funeral pricing information online. In fact, 49% indicated they would only do business with deathcare providers who provided pricing information online.

Veterans are not in the best interest of grieving families, there are many funeral service companies and cremation societies that provide this type of service today. And it is a preference that many, many families continue to choose.

The other type of online arrangement includes the assistance of a funeral professional. An online Guided Online funeral arrangements arrangement is one where the funeral arranger takes You might be thinking, “There’s no way families the family through their choices for funeral services, REALLY want to plan their loved one’s funerals online.” event planning, merchandise selection -- but done After all, there are so many decisions for families today. online rather than in-person. There’s the matter of scheduling services, coordinating with places of worship or cemeteries. We have to craft Are you prepared? the obituary or death notice, too. Families can’t do all It is not my intention to debate the psychological or these things without a funeral professional, right? sociological value of funeral planning or grieving, of I believe there are two distinct types of online arrange- storytelling and saying goodbye. All of us who have ments families may prefer: Unguided, and Guided. chosen the funeral service calling and profession believe in our purpose. But the fact is that consumers, An arrangement that is Unguided by a funeral profesin an ever-increasing way, are looking for convenience sional would allow a family to select the type of services in the way we shop for and purchase goods and services and funeral merchandise without the assistance of a – and funeral services are not exempt. funeral director. These types of Unguided arrangements are most often available for pre-need arrange- Are you prepared to assist customers in this new “Age ments or simple cremation arrangement services that of Convenience”? What is the impact for your business? usually don’t require the scheduling of public visitaIt starts with transparency. Do you have clear, undertions, church or interment services. standable pricing available for consumers to review While many of you might argue these types of services on your website? Put yourself in the seat of the family – is the pricing easy to understand?

Online planning tools like Matthews Aurora’s Family Connections allow families to make service and merchandise selections and add biographical information required for government forms. (photo provided by Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Solutions)

24 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

For families that want to interact with you online, do you have a way for families to make selections of preferred funeral services and merchandise? Can families document all the biographical information needed to complete a death certificate or other required government forms? Can families upload pictures that your staff might use to create a video tribute, personalized stationery or more?

IF you want a partner deeply invested in the future of your business. What is the Matthews Aurora Difference? We provide solutions that help you grow your business. Of course, we deliver the broadest selection of high-quality products when you need them. But we also provide solutions that help you serve the evolving needs of families in today’s digital world. Our Funeral Service Consultants tailor programs to meet your needs and partner with you to ensure that we are delivering the results that you expect.

Discover Matthews Aurora Funeral Solutions. We’re not your typical casket company. Please contact us at 1.800.457.1111 to be connected with your Matthews Aurora Funeral Service Consultant. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 25 MAFS-8885-2021 © 2021 Matthews International Corporation, all rights reserved. MATTHEWS® and MATTHEWS INTERNATIONAL® are registered trademarks of Matthews International Corporation.

Technology

Do funeral arrangers have the tools to conduct an is often received by the families you are trying to serve. online Guided arrangement? This could be done using While the ideal strategy might be for all staff members technology platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, to be consistent in serving families, perhaps an interim Webex or other screen-sharing applications. step might be to select two staff members to be the How do you review service options and pricing primary resources working with families online. online? Do you have arrangement guides in document As for where to start finding the tools and technologies, format, or even an interactive family-facing arrangeit’s always a good idea to talk with your peers about the ment system where you can help families design their technologies and tools they use. Leverage the resources services and create a funeral contract at the same time? of OGR and other associations you participate in. Your Do you have digital selection rooms for all your funeral key suppliers may also have tools or connections you merchandise – from caskets and urns to keepsakes and can evaluate. flowers?

Final thoughts

The experience of planning and purchasing funeral services is indeed unique, but family expectations are shaped by other consumer experiences we encounter. The pandemic of the past 18 months has certainly changed the Another way to improve the online planning experi- way many of us shop and purchase goods and services, ence is to offer electronic signature for funeral contracts and leading deathcare providers are evolving to meet or other authorization forms where you require signa- the changing expectations of today’s families. tures. There are many options for sending documents to families for digital signature, including DocuSign, Someone will provide families what they increasingly desire. Will that be you, or someone else? Adobe and many more.

“Someone will provide families with what they increasingly desire. Will that be you, or someone else?"

Do you allow families to pay for funeral services or memorial merchandise online? This may not be the choice of every family, but for those who want this convenience, are you able to accommodate?

Marty Strohofer is vice president of marketing and product development for Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Solutions. For 20 years, he These are some of the capabilities that deathcare has assisted funeral professionals providers have started to adopt with greater frequency. in implementing technology, marAnother important consideration in adopting new keting and merchandising solutechnologies, policies and procedures is the staff traintions. Matthews Aurora is an OGR ing required for your team to be successful. Endorsed Supplier. Members can learn more about the products, Getting started services and technology solutions offered by Matthews All new technologies have a learning curve. Let’s be Aurora™ Funeral Solutions at www.MatthewsAurora.com. honest, some people are quick to adapt, some people take a little more time and some may be stubborn. If funeral professionals are uncomfortable or unsure of utilizing these new tools, that frustration or discomfort

26 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

IN TER NATIO N AL PE RSPE CT IV E PMR Post Mortem Restituo Sweden AB, Malmoe, Sweden

Arlington Memorial Chapels & Crematory, Manila, Philippines

OGR international members share the forced innovations they have undergone in the wake of COVID-19 Nelson Bros. Funeral Services, Melbourne, Australia

Arlington Memorial Chapels & Crematory – Manila, Philippines

As a funeral service provider, we are in the eye of this storm. We must adapt or die. We are forced to adjust to the needs of our clients while following restrictions The attack happened without warning. There were no imposed by the government. war planes. No gunships. No soldiers nor weapons but the devastation of this war was felt everywhere. Casual- Since cremation was mandated for all COVID deaths ties are in the millions and there is no end in sight yet. in the Philippines and visitations were restricted to immediate family members, the majority of our clients We are at war with the worst kind of enemy. They have opted to either have no visitation or to hold a virtual mercenaries who are ruthless. They kill with no regard one. This challenged us to find ways to add value to our for age, gender or nationality. services—this led to our company rolling out ArlingHow do we battle an army of COVID-19 soldiers? Our ton’s Digital Services, which includes unique online world’s survival now depends on how we pivot from streams for masses and tributes, curated musical playlists and digital guestbooks for all our client-families. this pandemic. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 27

INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE: FORCED INNOVATION Our chapel facilities also needed to be refitted with sanitation equipment and required a new layout. Our staff needed extra PPE as well as training for virtual arrangements and services. We are forced to decline mass gatherings and limit our engagement with family members to the minimum.

nation since the start of the pandemic. The health directives have meant we've had almost no flu cases, and our overall death rate has fallen in 2020-21.

Our client families have been forced to have very basic, small services. They have been disenchanted to have a meaningful event with friends and other mourners This is not how we are used to doing business, but it in support. Pre-COVID, the vast majority of funerals is a good time to re-think our future and evolve as the at any of our five funeral homes would be followed by full catering in our reception rooms, an opportunity challenges continue to change the landscape. for those attending to share stories, memories and be --Bettina Jose together. Restrictions have completely halted this.

Nelson Bros. Funeral Services – Melbourne, Australia

Off the road are our fleet of black Rolls Royce coaches in which we would transport the family. The hearses of In Melbourne, Australia, we remain under a tight lock- course are still used, but our Rolls Royce fleet is such down. Only essential services may open, citizens are a feature of our business, it is disappointing not being limited to 5km travel from home, schools are closed able to offer it. (home learning only) and we are limited to 2 hours The biggest permanent change to our business is the outside of our homes a day, accompanied by only one adoption of technology by our client families. Our person. Funerals are permitted, but with a maximum website has had Tribute Walls with links to webcasting of 10 mourners. Since the start of 2020, we have had for a number of years. However, the uptake had been over 250 days with that same limit. For an additional 80 incredibly slow, despite our encouragement. Virtually days, we were permitted to have up to 20 at a funeral. overnight, families were forced into using the techIt’s been devastating for families who have lost a family nology and have fully embraced it. Our Tribute Walls member. are full of messages and photos, and we have had more than 45,000 viewers of our funerals from over 80 different countries around the world. --Adrian Nelson

PMR Post Mortem Restituo Sweden AB – Malmoe, Sweden The past year has meant major changes for most funeral homes in Sweden. From early in the pandemic, funeral homes have quickly had to adapt to the new everyday life to meet both restrictions and customer demand and needs.

Adrian Nelson of Nelson Brothers Funeral Service in Port Melbourne, Australia, conducting a graveside service with an interested audience of cows. (photo courtesy Nelson Bros. Funeral Service)

That included funeral homes early on choosing to offer livestreamed funerals, something that has turned out to be very popular with the customers. Today, approximately 20% choose livestreaming when they order a funeral.

The flip side of the severe loss of liberties created by Thanks to creative ideas like this, the business has been these strict public health directives is that we have had able to solve many obstacles. very few COVID deaths - only 1,100 across the entire 28 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE: FORCED INNOVATION In addition to livestreamed funerals, the new way of life has also led to a lot of other changes within the funeral industry. There is no doubt the digital ideas we see in the industry are here to stay.

Digital options that people in general hadn't requested before the pandemic have become quite popular, like livestreaming, online services and more. We can also see that the requests for these services decreased at the same time we were able to start offering in-person The number of digital memory pages increased at funerals again. the same time as the number of traditional obituaries declined markedly. That's because many newspapers We have had two spikes of COVID-19 cases in Sweden received more subscribers to their digital edition so far. During the first, families were unprepared and compared to the physical one. More than half of our the rate of direct disposition cremation cases increased customers choose a digital memory page these days. a lot. At the second peak, customers had adapted to the situation and we still had more traditional funeral Despite the digitization that has been both decisive and services, though with fewer attendees. appreciated during the pandemic, there still is a strong need among many customers for in-person services. I For our staff, the best thing we could do was to protect think it is very important to offer the possibility of a ourselves. We haven’t had any extreme number of deaths, but we are trending about 10% higher than a physical meeting if the situation allows it. normal year. --Kristina Lindmark --Jimmy Serler

Get new ideas for your funeral home, grow as a funeral director and expand your professional network by joining an OGR Study Group! We’re growing with two new groups - East Coast and West Coast - plus our existing North America and Global study groups.

Learn more and register at OGR.org/Study “Since I joined OGR’s Study Groups, my business has more than doubled in size. This is due to the sharing of ideas, best practices and strategies....If you want to grow your business in a significant way, you need to join OGR’s Study Groups.” Charles A. Castiglia

Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home Hamburg & West Seneca, NY www.ogr.org | The Independent® 29

started Veterans Funeral Care in 2001 with the goal of serving the veterans in my community better than any other funeral home. It was the first funeral home in America that was named after the customer we served rather than the owner. Since then, we have grown to a more than 900-case funeral home and I attribute our growth to gaining the business of disloyal customers.

staff. You have to have a true connection with the tribe you serve, whether that’s veterans, Catholics or Harley Davidson owners. Now, you need to make sure every staff member has been highly trained in the rituals and needs of that targeted community. They need to be able to talk tribally and have access to the resources needed to make your funeral home be seen as the go-to funeral home for anyone in that particular tribe.

What is a disloyal customer? These are the folks who had a “family funeral home” they used when someone died in their family, but suddenly are willing to pick up the phone or look online for a different funeral home to serve their needs. Maybe it’s cost considerations; maybe they went to a service at a different funeral home and were impressed by what they experienced. For us, it was tribal marketing. There is no other funeral home in Tampa Bay that can “out-veteran our funeral home.”

We had the honor of running the funeral for Marine Corps veteran and Hollywood actor R. Lee Ermey. Even though my funeral home is located in Clearwater, Florida, and the services were held in Los Angeles and later at Arlington National Cemetery, Ermey’s agent couldn’t find a local funeral home that could adequately answer his questions. He did not have confidence they could handle this funeral and called us through a referral.

This is where staff training is key. If an untrained staff member had taken that call, we would have been in the Find your tribe, and know them same boat as those other 10 funeral homes. However, Tribal marketing requires authenticity, knowledge and at Veterans Funeral Care we take time to train staff passion. This has to come from every member of your 30 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Grow your funeral home business by attracting disloyal customers by Jim Rudolph, Veterans Funeral Care before they are allowed to answer phone calls. If you want to grow your business, don’t let new people answer the phone until they are fully trained. Each call is an opportunity to gain new business by showing how your funeral home is different than your competitors, that you understand their needs and can exceed their expectations. It helps establish trust, and follow-up conversations will take that even deeper.

Personalize your staff

The “About Us” page on a funeral home’s website is another great way to humanize your staff. People want to do business with other people they can relate to. I recently took a look at fellow OGR member Pray Funeral Home’s website. They have the traditional suit and tie pictures of each staff member, but when you click on each bio you see that team member doing their If you recently ran an ad in print or on social media and hobby. Now, that funeral director isn’t just talking death the phone starts ringing, then you know every person with you, but golf or gardening. This is a brilliant way to on the other end of the line is a disloyal customer. If create a connection and give a shopper another reason they have a favorite funeral home, they won’t even to switch to your funeral home. Connections and trust look at your ad and certainly won’t take action on it. – those are the keys to gaining new business. Understand that before they pick up the phone and call, they have likely already checked out Google reviews Engage the community - inside and outside and your website. Be sure these two key areas of your your funeral home business marketing are up to the task. As the owner I You can also find disloyal customers through commumake sure to respond to every Google review and make nity involvement. Ask all professional staff to pick a each response personal and unique. Prospective clients local organization and get involved in it. They don’t all see that and understand we take the time to know every have to get involved in the same thing – that’s where family we serve and we will do the same for them. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 31

Business their individual passion and authenticity comes in. Each staff member has the ability to attract their own disloyal customers to your funeral home. I have a young funeral director who builds model airplanes. He has invited a group of model enthusiasts to come to our funeral home and work on their models together. Every month this group comes with their models and glue and paint and socialize within our funeral home’s walls. My pre-need person is a Reiki energy healing professional. Once a month she invites the community to come for a healing service and over 25 people show up at my door. Think about what you and your staff are interested in and then consider how you can not only get more involved in this within your community, but within your own funeral home.

Veterans us. My team meets each morning and reviews the day ahead so everyone knows who is expected to visit, what they are coming in for and what time they arrive. There is nothing better than being greeted by your name. When you have prepared your team, any staff member can welcome the person as they enter, know who they are here to meet and walk them to the correct space. It makes the experience more comfortable for your visitor and leaves a positive impression. Remember it is all these small steps that not only attracts new customers but keeps the ones you have loyal to your funeral home. In today’s world, it is not one thing that matters but a hundred things. Follow these steps you will find your at-need and pre-need growing by gaining the business of disloyal customers while ensuring you don’t lose any of the families you already serve.

I believe every funeral a person attends is an opportunity to attract or lose a family. Opening your door to outside groups allows people to see your funeral home without having to attend a funeral. It creates a sense of familiarity and this becomes THEIR funeral home. We have hosted events in our parking lot with senior care professionals, home healthcare nurses, hospice staff and elder law attorneys for a local senior professional group. We host our local Marine Corps League’s monthly breakfast and cater it for them. A “trunk or treat” event was a big success and we plan to run more events like it.

Create an experience More than anything, we plan for what the experience will be like for each person who walks in our door, whether it’s a family who has had a loss, an attendee at a visitation or service, or someone who is coming in for a community event. We train the staff in this, just like Disney creates a guest experience. From the way they are greeted to the signs that direct them to the correct room and the way our funeral home looks, each part of the experience is engineered to leave them impressed and willing to switch to using 32 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Jim Rudolph lives in Clearwater, Florida, but grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida. He started his career in 1980 working at a local funeral home. In 2000, he founded Veterans Funeral Care the nation’s first funeral home exclusively serving veterans and their families. Through its provider network, VFC now provides services in 23 states. Jim is a member of several veterans organizations including the Sons of the American Legion, Post 7, Clearwater; the Tampa Bay Veterans Alliance; and OpusPeace, a nonprofit whose goal is to help vets deal with trauma in their lives.

Looking for more resources? OGR offers a Google review template to increase your reviews, price shopping services to make sure your staff handles calls with professionalism and a webinar led by Jim Rudolph on attracting the veteran market. Reach out to Nancy Weil at NWeil@OGR.org or (512) 334-5504, ext. 304 for details on each.

Hey OGR Members! Do you know how to

“SPEAK VETERAN?”

Want to learn how tribal marketing is essential when trying to reach veterans?

Become the Go-to Funeral Home for Veterans Available in the Learning Library Learn how to connect with your veteran community! The Provider Network Veterans Funeral Care takes great pride in serving our Veteran community. Veterans Funeral Care trains and certifies mortuaries and funeral home providers across the country with the highest standard in mind.

For Veterans and their families 830 N. Belcher Road • Clearwater, FL 33765 ©adfinity®

(727) 524-9202

VeteransFuneralCare.com Serving Veterans and Non Veterans Since 2001

Jim Rudolph of Veterans Funeral Care and OGR member will teach you to better understand the veteran ® www.ogr.org | The Independent 33 community and their families.

Above & Beyond

These select Above & Beyond comments are about members who have received outstanding comments on Family Contact surveys for providing exemplary service and going above & beyond expected service levels. These members are now eligible for the Exemplary Service Award.

FAMILY CONTACT

Above & Beyond

THE GOLDEN RULE

Beckwith Mortuary, Inc. Larned, Kansas

Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels Enfield, Connecticut

Dealing with an out-of-the-ordinary funeral, the staff at Beckwith Mortuary went above and beyond. The marvelous staff guided our family through all the necessary contacts with Navy officers, filling out papers, making decisions and plans. They coordinated everything with the Navy, making Harold’s homecoming a special, patriotic event. The Beckwith staff certainly went above and beyond all expectations. They are professional, compassionate, understanding and thoroughly wonderful!

I can’t be any more pleased with the level of service provided. My experience had low stress in a difficult time. Everyone I came in contact with was highly professional. From start to finish everything was handled with the highest degree of professionalism and compassion. All aspects of the arrangements were addressed; nothing left out, no surprises. I was surprised and relieved at how everything was handled with relative simplicity. I wouldn’t change anything.

Schmidt Funeral Home West Bend, Wisconsin

Boone Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services West Jefferson, North Carolina

All staff members were professional and respectful to me and my family. Amy was my main person of contact. She was extremely kind, respectful and professional through the entire process. Any questions or concerns I had were promptly addressed. She made me feel completely at-ease and like a friend to the family. She went above and beyond, even ran to her house to try to help with an outfit issue. All aspects of our service were respectfully fulfilled and beyond our expectations.

As funeral directors are forced to change the way they do business amid the pandemic, feedback from the families you serve is more important than ever - and you can get it even faster if you encourage families to fill out the online form instead of using the paper form. Not using online forms yet? Contact Elly Wertz at EWertz@OGR.org to get your funeral home’s custom link. 34 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

The funeral home staff was super nice to us. They did a good job with our mom's appearance. They were professional and very caring; nothing to complain about. The funeral director specifically was a very sweet and caring lady. We love her! I would give her the highest rating possible. I wouldn’t do anything differently. Overall, the funeral was carried out in a very nice manner. It went wonderfully and we were

FAMILY CONTACT

Above & Beyond

very proud of it. She would have been pleased if she and helpful in making decisions for the service. He explained everything and answered all my questions. could know. I always felt at-ease with him and his staff. I knew he Kreidler Funeral Home, Inc. would take very good care of my mom. My family and I are extremely grateful for Chris and his staff. They McAllen, Texas were flawless with their execution of the issues we were Regarding the funeral home staff: They were profes- dealing with. There were a few issues regarding travel sionals and that cannot be taken lightly. John Kreidler and scheduling as well as finding another minister, but goes beyond just being a funeral director. He becomes Chris and the staff were able to accommodate all our a friend in time of need during the whole process. He needs on time. It was a beautiful send-off thanks to and his staff are admired for the care they put into Wilson Funeral Home. caring for your loved one. He and his staff can’t be beat. There is no comparison. Everything was handled with The Family Contact Program is a FREE member benefit that is simple to use and offers valuable grace and beauty. You can’t outdo the best! information on your funeral home’s operations, services and staff through surveying families you’ve served. Wilson Funeral Home, Inc. Join OGR’s Family Contact Program today and you Racine, Wisconsin could be one of next year’s Exemplary Service Award We were familiar with Wilson Funeral Home from winners. For more information or to sign up, visit a prior service, and they did not disappoint. Chris, OGR.org/family-contact-program or contact us by email the funeral director, was extremely kind, respectful at FamilyContact@OGR.org or (800) 637-8030.

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To order call 1-888-829-8362 or email us at info@inexinc.com www.ogr.org | The Independent® 35

Member Spotlight

Spotlight on Infinity Funeral Home – Biloxi, Mississippi Bishop Rick August, president of Infinity Funeral Home in Biloxi, Mississippi, and his children Lasha and Jonathan August - vice president and CFO, respectively - share their experience running a successful funeral home.

Tell me a little bit about how your funeral home was founded and how it operates today. Our funeral home is first-generation family-owned and -operated. My father, Rick August (Bishop, as we call him), completed his funeral service internship with Mr. Jesse Richmond, the owner of what was then Richmond Funeral Home. When it came time for Mr. Richmond to retire, he reached out to Bishop August to discuss selling the business. Needless to say, the path has been a winding road, but God continues to lead us. Today, Infinity Funeral Home in Biloxi, Miss. (photo provided) our family along with a great team of staff are focused grief process and strive to serve each family as we on providing our best to families through the help and would want to be served. grace of God.

Why do you believe funeral service is important? Funeral service bridges a gap for families and communities by providing a place of comfort, guidance and support during times of need, loss and uncertainty. Whether it is lending financial support to a local youth group or finding ways to honor life during the burgeoning days of a pandemic, funeral service and the funeral home are instrumental to the life and stability of a community.

What does your funeral home do in order to create a strong community presence? Do you believe that this is important?

In addition to supporting local pastors and ministries and participating in community sponsorship events, Infinity Funeral Home hosts a monthly bingo event for senior citizens in our reception hall as well as an annual Community Tea Party at our local civic center. Our last tea party event welcomed nearly 200 seniors and their guests who were treated to plated table service, live music and an opportunity to show off their Sunday’s best including hat and gloves.

What is the most rewarding part of working in funeral service? In what ways do you use technology to The connections we build with families and the further the services you offer? community as we walk with them through transition.

In today’s climate we understand the importance of utilizing technology to enhance our service to families What do you believe distinguishes your who may feel apprehension about traditional funeral funeral home from other funeral homes? planning and services. We offer virtual family planning We seek to put God first in all we do. We understand conferences, private live streaming of the funeral service the lasting impact the funeral service can have on the on the funeral home’s website and via social media upon 36 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Member Spotlight

family request. One of my favorite ways we’ve been able to integrate technology is by using Tukios’ tribute video software. It features a link that allows families to easily upload photos and videos which we then use to create a personalized tribute video. It’s so much faster than our previous way of doing things.

What growing trends have you noticed in the funeral service industry? In what ways have you tried to keep up with these changes? Personalization of the funeral service seems to be a growing trend. We offer a wide array of memorial personalization options. We try to think outside the box when it comes to serving families and say yes, where possible.

As a new member, what do you value most about OGR? Why did you become a member? The support and guidance of OGR’s staff has been invaluable. We have received good guidance and advice as well as the knowledge that we are part of a larger group that understands the joys and challenges of family-owned funeral service. We had heard of OGR previously but decided Your Real Source. to become a Anywhere. Anytime. member after joining the Veteran’s Funeral Care Network. The relationship with VFC and OGR seems to naturally go hand - in - hand. We’re glad to be a part of both organizations.

ly t c a x e d Fin u’re o y t a h w or! looking f

www.nomispublications.com

Is there anything in particular that you do at work to keep your spirits

Bishop Rick August and his daughter Lasha of Infinity Funeral Home in Biloxi, Miss. (photo provided)

high or the spirits of your staff high? We do regular wellness “check-ins” with our staff. We believe team culture and business atmosphere are improved when our staff feel supported. We also sponsor regular team-building days such as bowling or dinner. These socialization opportunities allow team members to get to know one another in a relaxed setting and, we believe, strengthen work relationships.

What are three future goals that you have in mind for your funeral home? We plan to add a crematory, enhance our integration of technology and further involve the next generation of the August family into the business of serving families.

Continue onto the next page for a special mini-feature with Bishop Rick discussing his experience as not just a funeral director and owner but also the senior pastor of a local church. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 37

Member Spotlight

Besides owning the funeral home, you also are the senior pastor for a local church. Which came first in your professional life and how did you come to be involved in both? The church began in 1990, and I graduated from funeral service and completed my internship in 1997. What they have in common is that I truly feel called to operate in both capacities and receive strength from God daily to do both.

How do you balance both of these responsibilities?

Private family room for client families at Infinity Funeral Home in Biloxi, Miss. (photo provided)

Because we see what we do at Infinity Funeral Home as ministry, the two dovetail special connection with the veterans you nicely. Serving and helping people in need is the order serve at your funeral home? of the day. I think I relate to certain aspects. Serving away from home, as well as being “under contract” are some What are the challenges and benefits of uniquenesses I can relate to.

wearing both of these important hats?

Do you do anything special for them?

Both can be pretty time consuming, but fortunately I’m blessed with a great team in both places who do a We’re very excited about some new initiatives and tremendous job. The benefit is easy; meeting and getting programs we’re starting that will show our veterans how much we appreciate them. I think they merit honor and to know so many wonderfully interesting people. it’s our joy to give it!

Having served in the United States Air Force, have you found that this has given you a

What do you think funeral directors should know about working with and developing good relationships with clergy? Having worn both hats, I think the funeral director should defer to the officiating minister where and when possible, being respectful of her/his role in carrying out the family’s wishes. If possible, a simple contact leading up to or on the day of the service goes a long way.

Vehicles for client family convenience at Infinity Funeral Home in Biloxi, Miss. (photo provided)

38 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

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www.ogr.org | The Independent

In Memoriam

Remembering Family and Friends Leo P. "Skeets" Gallagher, Jr. August 6, 1928 - July 14, 2021 OGR president, 1973-74 Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Homes Naples, Florida

Dale L. Rollings June 23, 1940 – July 1, 2021 former OGR executive director Kirkwood, Missouri

Paul H. Sterenberg

February 6, 1939 – September 3, 2021 former partner at OGR member firm Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home Holland, Michigan

Marvin F. Steward

January 11, 1944 – August 7, 2021 owner of OGR member firm Montgomery & Steward Funeral Directors, Inc. Pueblo, Colorado

www.ogr.org || Fall Fall 2021 2021 40 www.ogr.org

YP Spotlight

Young Professional Spotlight: Kimberly Knight Kimberly Knight is a 42-year-old funeral director you have noticed in funeral service?

and office manager at James A. Dyal Funeral Home in I have seen cremation increase more since I started Summerville, South Carolina. working in the industry.

How long have you worked in funeral service?

How do you spend your time outside of work? Is there anything in particular that you enjoy I have worked in funeral service for 13 years as a greeter doing?

doing the visitations for James A. Dyal Funeral Home, I love serving in my church. My husband is a youth and then came on full-time five years ago and have pastor, so I love spending time with all the youth been a funeral director for two years. outside of work. We also enjoy camping and boating and spending time with my family.

Why did you begin working in funeral service?

I started working at the funeral home as a greeter. They were looking for someone and it fit my schedule and so I began doing that. I then fell in love with ministering to the families. I lost my parents at a young age, so I understood the importance of death and the funeral process.

What is the most rewarding part of your occupation? I love serving families. It is not a job to me, it is a ministry.

What are your professional goals?

Kimberly Knight poses for a photo with her husband Sam, and their children Colton, Taylor and Garret. (photo provided by Kimberly Knight)

What are three of your personal goals?

My goal is to continue serving the families in our 1. Continue to serve families with compassion. community and minister to them in any way I can. 2. Continue to stay on top of funeral changes and What are you proud of that you have achieved trends.

so far during your career in funeral service?

3. Be the wife and mother that God has called me to be I was a wife, mother, youth pastor’s wife and full-time and balance it with serving in the funeral industry. employee, so I wore many hats and I went to school to Who or what inspires you? be a funeral director when I was 40 and succeeded at Above all, the Lord Jesus Christ inspires me to always the top of my class. show the light of Him in my life. The joy that I have What are some important/notable trends that definitely comes from Him. www.ogr.org | The Independent® 41

YP Spotlight

What is your favorite phone app? My favorite app on my phone is probably TikTok. I love to end my day with laughter.

What is one thing your peers would be surprised to know about you? I love NASCAR and fishing.

What is one thing that you think is just “golden,” wonderful or exciting? I think what is golden is waking up every morning and God giving me another day to glorify Him.

What do you value most about OGR?

Kimberly Knight enjoys fishing in her time away from the funeral home (photos provided by Kimberly Knight)

funeral directors can get set in their ways.

I am new to OGR so I am excited about learning more.

How do you find young talent to add The organization as a whole tries to ‘follow the Golden Rule.’ What other words do you try to your staff? to live by? By speaking with others

My parents always taught me to treat others the way you and learning about the want to be treated and to always allow Christ to be shown individual. in your life in everything you say and do. What do they bring

to your funeral We decided to do something a little different this quar- home that you find ter, asking a few questions of the owner of the firm our beneficial? featured YP works for. These questions were answered by James Dyal.

Why do you hire Young Professionals rather than more experienced funeral directors? Because there are not many people getting in the funeral industry, I have found it best to train young people to the way that we would like. More experienced 42 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

James Dyal, Jr., owner (photo courtesy James A. Dyal Funeral Home)

Young Professionals have the energy and passion to meet with families. Sometimes directors get burnt out and treat families as just another case.

Above & Beyond

Celebrating Milestone Anniversaries — October, November & December — 65 years | November1956

60 years | December 1961

Clements Funeral Service Durham, NC

R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home Hampton, VA

60 years | December 1961

55 years | December 1966

Moore Funeral Service Hattiesburg, MS

Proko Funeral Home Kenosha, WI

50 years | November 1971

50 years | December 1971

Vander Plaat Funeral Home Wyckoff, NJ

R. Lee Williams & Son Funeral Home & Crematory Saint Petersburg, FL

40 years | October 1981

40 years | December 1981

Faulmann & Walsh Golden Rule Funeral Home Fraser, MI

Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Inc. Virginia Beach, VA

35 years | December 1986

25 years | November 1996

Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. Yankton, SD

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw, NC

20 years | November 2001 Murphy Funeral Home & Chapel, Ltd. Pembroke, Ontario www.ogr.org | The Independent®® 43

Member News

Brunswick Memorial Home recognized as 'Best of the Best' by NFDA by Evan Hoffmeyer, OGR Communications Director

GR members were again recognized as some of the "best of the best" by the National Funeral Directors Association this year, including Brunswick Memorial Home being one of only three funeral homes to take the top prize in NFDA's annual Pursuit of Excellence Awards contest. OGR itself just recognized Brunswick with its Community Service Award earlier this year. Brunswick is also home to the new chair of OGR's Young Professionals Council, Arianna Rule. "OGR prides itself on helping independently owned and operated funeral homes across the globe provide elite service to their communities regardless of size," said OGR's Executive Director Wendy King. "We could not be more proud of our members and the truly golden service they provide day-in and day-out."

(left to right) Brunswick Memorial Home staff members Randy Gagnon, Eugene Norton, Arianna Rule, Peter Kulbacki, Krista Paradowski and Michael Kulbacki stand in front of their East Brunswick, N.J. location. The firm was named one of three "Best of the Best" funeral homes in 2021 by NFDA, and also became eligible to be inducted into NFDA's Hall of Excellence. (photo provided)

Four OGR firms are marking their 10th year of being Pursuit of Excellence awards are given based on recognized as Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients. proficiency in key areas of funeral service, including That makes them eligible to be inducted into NFDA's compliance with government regulations; staff partic- prestigious Hall of Excellence: ipation in ongoing education and professional devel• Brunswick Memorial Home – East Brunswick, N.J. opment; offering outstanding programs and resources to bereaved families; and more. All applicants submit • Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home – Port Huron, an essay describing the development and execution Mich. & company of a program or service that had a positive impact on • Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home – Hamburg, the families they serve or their community, qualifying N.Y. & company them for the Best of the Best Award, which recognizes • Wieting Family Funeral Home – Chilton, Wis. up to 10 of the most novel and innovative programs and services in the profession. 44 www.ogr.org | Fall 2021

Member News

Other OGR members recognized as Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients this year are:

• Pollock-Randall Funeral Home – Port Huron, Mich.

• Anderson Funeral & Cremation Services – Belvidere, Ill.

• Oliverie Funeral Home – Jackson, N.J.

• Arlington Memorial Chapels – Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

• Pray Funeral Home – Charlotte, Mich. (Hall of Excellence member)

• Oliverie Funeral Home – Manchester, N.J.

• Arnette & Steele Funeral Home & Cremation Center – Pineville, Ky. (Hall of Excellence member) • Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, Inc. – Covington, Ga. (Hall of Excellence member) • Cozean Memorial Chapel & Crematory – Farmington, Mo. (Hall of Excellence member) • David C. Brown Funeral Home – Belleville, Mich. (Hall of Excellence member) • Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc. – Franklin, Penn. (Hall of Excellence member) • Hightower Family Funeral Homes – Carrollton, Ga. • Hightower Funeral Home – Bremen, Ga. • Hightower's Memorial Chapel – Douglasville, Ga.

Evan joined OGR in June 2020. A local journalist for 12 years, he is excited to bring his expertise in media Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services – and government relations, public Grand Blanc, Mich. policy and content marketing to this new arena. Evan got a BA in ComMartin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services – munications with a minor in politMt. Morris, Mich. (Hall of Excellence member) ical science from the University of Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services – the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas, Vassar, Mich. (Hall of Excellence member) and just graduated from Ball State Marysville Funeral Home – Marysville, Mich. University in Muncie, Indiana, with an MA in Journalism, specializing in media analytics and management.

• Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home – West Seneca, N.Y. (Hall of Excellence member) • • • •

OGR’’s ne OGR new online

LEARNING LIBRA LIBRAR RY Professional de development webina ebinarrs on-demand to fit your schedule

NOW OPEN OGR.org/Learning-Library www.ogr.org | The Independent® 45

Fall Buyer’s Guide

FALL BUYERS GUIDE COVER DESIGN OF SOME KIND

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 ADVERTISING AND MARKETING The Hartway System™ from Story Collaborative The Hartway System™ from Story Collaborative is modern marketing with heart. Through advanced automation and personalization, Hartway integrates quality digital marketing tools into a funeral home’s existing digital marketing system, delivering growth through new preneed leads and increased cremation cases without the need for a website redesign. We have seen what it takes for the funeral industry to nurture an awesome responsibility and use it to effectively reach more families. As funeral directors, you’re already doing it - using your deep understanding and experience to help others in the most meaningful way possible. Hartway was built to help you unlock what you are already doing and put it into action. • free system set-up ($1,500 value) David Mills DMills@Story-Collaborative.com 888.652.0119 Hartway.com

SKYWAYS MEDIA Skyways Media is a family-owned business operating in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the #1 supplier of funeral planning guides in the U.S. and Canada. We specialize in the design, printing and supply of FREE funeral planning guides and pre-need apps. Skyways Media has successfully produced planning guides for many OGR members over the past few years, who are extremely satisfied with their guides. The best thing? There is no cost to your funeral home. • Free individualized planning guides Harry Hobson Harry@Skyways-Media.com 646.810.5748 Skyways-Media.com OGR.org/Skyways-Media

TRANSPORT & SHIPPING American Pre-Arrangement Services (APASI) The Freedom To Go plan by APASI offers enhanced benefits for the funeral home and families of our members in the event a death occurs just 75 miles from a members legal residence, from anywhere around the world. APASI’s plan is not insurance and no licensing is required to sell the membership. Enrollment in the plan is simple and can be completed online or with a paper contract. APASI pays all costs associated with the return of the deceased, including air transportation, for a suggested retail price of $450. The plans can be sold to anyone; pre-arrangements are not required. Andrew J. Pavela VP of Sales & Marketing Andrew@APASIplan.com 480.712.0637

BURIAL VAULTS Vantage Products Corporation Vantage Products is well-known and respected for its highquality burial vaults. In fact, Vantage has so much confidence in its products, it is able to carry 50- and 100-year warranties. • 13-30% off • free litho prints & brochures of each vault Contact OGR Products & Services at 800.637.8030 for best available offers and order placement. VantageProducts.com

CASKETS Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Solutions Matthews Aurora Funeral Solutions is dedicated to providing solutions that help you grow your business and meet the evolving needs of families in today’s digital world. We deliver the broadest selection of high-quality products and are your experts on the latest in funeral solutions — from caskets to cremation merchandise and technology solutions. (continued on page 49)

O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k | 4 7

O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K

WOULD YOUR FUNERAL HOME BENEFIT FROM 1000 HIGH QUALITY INFORMATION GUIDES - EVERY YEAR - AT NO COST!?

CUSTOM DESIGN & TAILORED CONTENT INC. PRE-PLANNING We work very closely with you to ensure we individually design guides that perfectly represent every funeral home we work with, your values and your individual needs.

INCLUDE YOUR OWN UNIQUE SERVICES, STAFF BIOS, FORMS, IMAGES, MAPS & MORE Our guides are uniquely designed for your funeral home, incorporating your logo, branding, images, location maps, key personnel photos and staff profiles/bios within each guide.

USED & APPROVED BY OGR MEMBERS AT ZERO COST! Skyways Media have successfully produced planning guides for many OGR members. These high quality, rich, full color glossy printed guides were supplied at zero cost and they have been extremely satisfied with them!

PROVIDE YOUR LOCAL FAMILIES WITH THE LATEST COVID-19 INFORMATION & PROCESSES

LET’S TALK!

USA West: 1-702-329-6677 USA East: 1-646-810-5748 www.skyways-media.com

4 8 | O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k

S K Y W AY S

M E D I A

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 Ask your Matthews Aurora™ Funeral Service consultant how OGR member funeral homes can begin to experience the Matthews Aurora™ Difference. Chris DiMascio CDimascio@MATW.com MatthewsAurora.com

Church & Chapel Metal Arts, Inc. www.church-chapel.com | (800)-992-1234 | Info@church-chapel.com

Chapel Furniture | Funeral Home Supplies | Urns

CEMETERY & FUNERAL HOME SUPPLIES / EQUIPMENT Church & Chapel Metal Arts, Inc. Family-owned and -operated since 1933, Church & Chapel offers a full line of furniture, supplies and equipment necessary for the delivery of funeral services. Personal attention is paramount at Church & Chapel, where the utmost attention is given to quality and detail. Many items are made-to-order and available in custom sizes, finishes and configurations. Prompt shipment from large inventory of cremation and funeral supplies. • 20% discount on Ferno products • 10% discount on all others 800.992.1234 Church-Chapel.com

Monarch Resources Monarch Resources is a premier full-service nationwide funeral home, mortuary and crematory supply and equipment distributor. With more than 2,500 products related to the funeral industry under one roof, we ship in-stock orders within 24 hours. Additionally, we sell promotional products and provide graphic design assistance. • 15% discount on sundries • 20% discount on Ferno and Junkin products Contact OGR Products and Services at 800.637.8030. 800.242.4231 MonarchResources.com

Symmetry Elevating Solutions Symmetry is a beautifully crafted, expertly engineered accessibility-related product line proudly made in the USA at the Bella Elevator, LLC manufacturing plant. Promoted and sold by our exclusive nationwide network of carefully selected Symmetry partners and associates, Symmetry offers residential elevators, vertical platform lifts, LULA elevators and vertical reciprocating conveyors, including the casket lift. (continued on page 50)

O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k | 4 9

O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K Strictly following national code guidelines and adhering to local jurisdiction requirements and variances, Symmetry products are ADA and ASME compliant. Symmetry representatives possess a wealth of knowledge and experience and are committed to excellence for the life of the product — before, during and after project completion. • six-month extended parts warranty ($500 value) Scott Strum CustomerService@SymmetryElevator.com 877.375.1428 SymmetryElevators.com

United Laboratories United Laboratories has been serving funeral homes since 1964 – manufacturing and providing cleaning, disinfecting, deodorizing and drain maintenance solutions to meet the needs of funeral directors and their staff. Our employee-owned operation takes pride in offering an extensive line of highquality products that are safer for you and the environment. Whether it is business as usual or midst a pandemic, we are here for you. • 30% off published pricing

Innovative Technology Solutions for Funeral Homes, Cemeteries, and Crematories OpusXenta is a global technology provider to the death care sector. We are focused on solving the complex challenges that funeral homes, cemeteries, and crematories encounter every day so they can focus on what is most important their customers. Manage your operations better

Adapt to a changing market

Deliver amazing customer service

Find out what we can do for you. opusxenta.com

Dana Killmer, Executive Vice President of Sales DKillmer@UnitedLabsInc.com 800.323.2594, ext. 4485 (direct) 925.963.7570 (mobile) UnitedLabsInc.com

COMPUTER, WEBSITE & INTERNET OpusXenta OpusXenta is a global technology provider to the deathcare sector across North America, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. We are focused on solving the complex challenges that funeral homes, cemeteries and crematories encounter every day so they can focus on what is most important - serving their families. Our comprehensive range of products enables our customers to better manage their operations, adapt to a changing market and deliver amazing customer service. Our solutions include byondpro for operational excellence and byondcloud, a platform that enables the deathcare industry to transact with customers and suppliers online. • 10% subscription discount for the first 12 months

5 0 | O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 Tony Lorge, CEO 833.236.2736 OpusXenta.com

Your Social Strategy YourSocialStrategy.com is a full-service digital marketing agency with a focus on the funeral industry. We simplify your digital marketing process by offering a one-stop shop for all your digital marketing needs. We offer pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, search engine optimization (SEO) services, social media advertising and more. No matter what your firm requires online, we've got you covered!

FULL-SERVICE DIGITAL MARKETING OGR rs get Membe

OFeF 20% ic y serv an

• 20% off social media packages • 28% off pay-per-click monthly management fees • 17% off SEO monthly fees Mike Hepburn Mike@YourSocialStrategy.com 888.356.0380 YourSocialStrategy.com

CONSULTING Affiliated Power Purchasers International (APPI) APPI Energy is available to provide data-driven, holistic energy management services and custom solutions tailored to your organization's specific needs and goals. As part of your membership benefit, APPI Energy can analyze your energy usage, evaluate your energy bill, deliver a green-apples-togreen-apples comparison of supplier prices and contracts, and negotiate a supply solution tailored to your budgetary needs and sustainability goals.

Mike Hepburn • (888) 356-0380 mike@yoursocialstrategy.com YourSocialStrategy.com

PROVIDING DATA-DRIVEN, HOLISTIC ENERGY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

Benefits to you include: • Negotiating on your behalf: Advocating for you, not the supplier or the utility • Minimizing risk: Analyzing contracts and monitoring regulatory changes • Providing customized solutions: Including comprehensive evaluations on demand and usage profile • Save you time: Evaluate local utility and government policies to ensure all incentives are being captured Operating on a foundation of data-driven consulting solutions, designed to help you save time, money, and minimize budgetary risk on the energy procurement process, APPI Energy is unbiased, working with only the most trusted, heavily-vetted suppliers.

Let our team go to work for you! Decrease energy costs Reduce demand Improve resiliency and sustainability 800-520-6685 INFO@APPIENERGY.COM APPIENERGY.COM

(continued on page 52)

O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k | 5 1

O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K Additionally, APPI Energy offers energy management solutions to reduce demand, reduce costs, and increase sustainability. As a true extension of your team, APPI Energy provides holistic, tailored solutions that help you set and meet your energy goals while reducing overall energy costs. Carrie Shepard CShepard@APPIenergy.com 800.520.6685 APPIenergy.com

The Foresight Companies, LLC At the Foresight Companies, we are passionate about the funeral and cemetery profession. Our business and financial consulting firm has a singular focus: our client’s success. Our mission is to provide solution-based services that guide our clients through the process of strategic change. Our role as a trusted adviser includes accounting, financing, valuations, merger/acquisitions and human resource and compliance business services. We understand the business of doing business. This mission is expressed in our corporate motto: Consulting with Insight. That’s Foresight.

We’ve got the sharpest minds in the business. And they’re all yours. Most funeral home operators and cemeterians understand how to work IN the business. But the job of working ON the business, that’s different. That takes specialized expertise, deep experience, uncanny wisdom and above all else, insight! Find out now how our team of nationally-respected, A-list gurus can give your firm the unfair advantage it needs to thrive. You don’t need consulting. You need consulting with insight. That’s Foresight!

• 7% discount on initial retainer of professional services Nicole Vullo Marketing Manager Nicole@TheForesightCompanies.com 602.274.6464 TheForesightCompanies.com

Full-Circle Aftercare We are a concierge service the represents your funeral home and helps families navigate through the complexities of closing an estate after a loved one passes away. Over the phone we help families with everything from Social Security benefits to VA benefits and life insurance policies, all the way down through cell phones, credit cards, utilities and even newspaper subscriptions. We set up protection services for the deceased and their surviving family members. Also, we gather detailed feedback from the families, along with generating more online reviews and testimonials for the funeral home to use in your own marketing. Lastly, we introduce preneed and provide the interest and leads back to you every month for you to follow up with those families. • startup fee waived ($299 value) • 2-3 family trial at no charge Matt Van Drimmelen 801.915.2257 Full-CircleCare.com

Johnson Consulting Group With increased concern in profitability due to consumer choices, cremation and succession planning, you need a trusted consultant to navigate through to success. Johnson Consulting Group is a funeral home and cemetery consulting firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions, business valuations, bank lending, accounting services, business performance analysis, business performance improvement, customer survey/sales analysis program and incentive compensation programs. • your choice of a high-level demographic analysis or revenue forecasting analysis, free of charge 888.250.7747 info@JohnsonConsulting.com JohnsonConsulting.com

theForesightCompanies.com

5 2 | O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 Merchant Cost Consulting

EDUCATION & REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

Merchant Cost Consulting is a cost reduction/consulting firm that helps funeral homes reduce their credit card processing fees WITHOUT having to switch processors, equipment or software. As a specialist in helping funeral homes lower their credit card processing fees without having to switch processors, Merchant Cost Consulting provides time savings and negotiation expertise in the effort to get the most competitive rates from credit card companies. Merchant Cost Consulting audits customers’ current accounts, finds hidden surcharges and negotiates new, lower rates. In addition, the company works with businesses to monitor credit card processing rates on an ongoing basis.

In 1991, Gary Finch developed the first OSHA & Safety Program specifically for the funeral industry. He founded it on the premise that funeral home employees face common hazards and they could benefit from using a network safety program.

Merchant Cost Consulting doesn't get paid unless we are successful in saving you money, as we are only paid in the form of a revenue split on the savings we find for you.

Since 1997, we have served as Safety Consultant of Record to the Order of the Golden Rule. We are the only program that was specifically written for the funeral Industry.

• keep an additional 5% of the savings obtained by MCC for your first 24 months

• 10% discount on all services • no charge for any OGR member firm that calls with OSHA-related questions

Patrick MacLellan Director of Business Development Patrick@MerchantCostConsulting.com 508.733.7622 MerchantCostConsulting.com

Kiss Compliance / Compliance Plus

Annual renewal training and the more in-depth new employee training are designed for embalmers and other employees with exposure to blood borne pathogens and formaldehyde.

PFinch@KISScompliance.net 800.950.1101 KISScompliance.net

CREMATION Starmark Cremation Products The team at Starmark thinks only about cremation and funeral products for the changing industry landscape. Starmark is 100% focused on providing Sensible Solutions® for cremation that improve funeral home revenue from direct to full services. Starmark manufactures cremation products including the original Elderlite® Corrugated Fiberboard Casket, Ceremonial Rental Caskets, Ceremonial Rental Casket inserts, industry leading alternative cremation containers, basic cremation supplies, economical cremation products in lightweight corrugated fiberboard and cloth-covered products to meet the needs and wants of cremation client families. Arie Elder Arie.Elder@StarmarkCP.com 765.966.7676, ext. 217 StarmarkCP.com

Help yourself and your funeral home keep things simple with KISS Compliance. Call: 800-950-1101 Kisscompliance.net O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k | 5 3

O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K Veterans Funeral Care Veterans Funeral Care provides educational workshops focused on how to engage the veterans in your market area. How to Become the Go-to Funeral Home for Veterans, led by Licensed Funeral Director Jim Rudolph, covers everything from branding to talking "tribally." A four-hour course is available in OGR's Learning Library to take at your convenience. Occasional in-person workshops are scheduled through OGR. Upon completion of this course, attendees may have the option to become a licensed Veterans Funeral Care Network provider. Veterans Funeral Care Network providers are able to offer proprietary programs such as "Operation Toy Soldier" and "Retire Your Flag with Honor" to their communities. Every network provider has exclusive rights to their territory. • 15% discount on VFC Network annual licensing fee Jim Rudolph JimRudolph99@me.com 727.524.9202 VeteransFuneralCare.com/Provider-Network

EMBALMING & PREP-ROOM SUPPLIES The Dodge Company A family-owned and -operated business since 1893,The Dodge Company is the world’s largest manufacturer and distributor of preparation room supplies. We carry a complete line of stationery, urns and urn vaults, and are a source for memorial products through our partners Glass Remembrance, Capture Bead Keepsakes and Dodge Portraits. Consolidated Funeral Services (CFS), Dodge’s technology partner, provides revenue-generating websites, development services and hosting, all while paying dividends to our 5,000 website customers. Dodge is proud to have been partnered

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with Insight Books and Doug Manning for more than 25 years, supplying grief recovery materials and the Continuing Care series. As an Endorsed Supplier, Dodge supports OGR through a financial contribution toward the association's educational programming. Dodge believes that education is key to the future of our profession. • 25% freight discount for orders of eligible product valued at $200 - $399.99 • 50% on orders of eligible product valued at $400 or more Timothy Collison TCollison@DodgeCo.com 800.443.6343 DodgeCo.com (website) Shop.DodgeCo.com (webstore)

Embalmers' Supply Company (ESCO) In business since 1986, The Embalmers' Supply Company (ESCO) has a long history of innovation and technology within the embalming industry and first in many chemicals that are in the marketplace. San Veino's, Hexaphene's and Porti-Boy machines. • Up to 25% discount on fluids • 10% discount on Porti-Boy machines • 50% paid shipping when purchasing five or more cases Contact OGR Products and Services at 800.637.8030. Embalmers.com

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 Vision Medical Vision Medical offers a wide variety of funeral home products. The line includes - but is not limited to - body bags, disaster pouches, plastic undergarments, personal protective equipment (PPE) / protective apparel (gowns, lab coats, shoe covers, masks, etc.), gloves, prep-room supplies, crematory supplies and a primary focus on unique cremation urns.

Introducing Vision Medical’s new line of unique, high-quality themed urns.

• 7% off complete product line Contact OGR Products & Services 800.637.8030. Margot@VisionMedicalOnline.com Vision-Medical.net

FINANCING & INVESTING Access Financial Group For nearly 30 years, Access Financial Group has managed the Golden Rule® Funeral Trust, providing pre-need trust accounting and investment advice. The Golden Rule 401(k) Plan was designed to help you meet your retirement savings goals. The plan was exclusively developed to support independent funeral homes and their employees. With low start-up investment and comparably low ongoing recordkeeping costs, this unique plan gives you and your employees more options than ever before. The Golden Rule 401(k) Plan has the added benefit of allowing you to offer benefits to your employees, giving you a leg up in the hiring and retention of employees. Contact us to learn more about this unique benefit and how we can work together to help you and your employees plan for your future. • 401(k) exclusive member pricing Christopher Chigas CC@AFinancial.com 312.655.8233 IntermentTrustServices.com AFinancial.com/OGR

Express Funeral Funding Express Funeral Funding contacts the insurance company on behalf of your family and completes all of the necessary

5055 Old Ellis Point, Suite C-2

Roswell, GA 30076 678-893-0070

www.vision-medical.net sales@visionmedicalonline.com

documentation for the assignment of your loved one’s life insurance policy and ensures payment to the funeral home typically within 24 hours of verification. • industry-low 3.5% rate Richard Praszkier Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Richard@ExpFF.com 812.204.7810 ExpressFuneralFunding.com

Federated Fiducial (FFDA) Since 1925, Federated Fiducial has provided business services to those specializing in the funeral business. Our team of experts specializes in bookkeeping & tax services, valuation & transition services, business consulting, payroll services, retirement plan administration and collection services. Federated’s team of field consultants provide nationwide, onsite support and consulting to assist in addressing the specific needs of funeral businesses. These experts coupled with Federated’s professional staff provide an unparalleled level of service. (continued on page 56)

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O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K Curt Dailey Director of Business Relations 217.525.1712 800.877.3332 Federated-Fiducial.com

INSURANCE ABM Funding, Inc. Independently owned, ABM Funding works with funeral directors to provide immediate cash and take the burden out of filing life insurance claims. By verifying and filing life insurance claims, ABM frees up time that can be spent serving families; not to mention providing your money within 24 hours of verifying the policy. When time is money, you can count on ABM! • 3% individual policies • 3.95% group and NPS policies Scott Baker Scott@ABM-Funding.com 276.656.2499

C&J Financial C&J Financial is proud to have partnered with OGR for over a decade and serve the funeral profession for 25 years. C&J continues to lead the way in insurance assignment funding with a diverse staff experienced in the insurance, funeral and preneed professions. In addition, we offer the quickest, most intuitive online platform. Our Assignment Funding Management System allows you to submit a claim in just over one minute then print documents specific to that insurance company. From there you can track and manage your claims all the way through the process. Let us show you how we can bring value to your funeral home. • Choose between a 2.9% funding discount for your first 60 days or getting your first claim for free • Funding discount of 3.9% thereafter with a quarterly rebate available Rob Brice Director of Strategic Partnerships RobB@CJF.com 417.425.7993 (direct) 800.785.0003 (general) CJF.com/OGR

Federated Insurance Company Federated Insurance provides business insurance protection to funeral service providers across the U.S. A+ (Superior) rated by AM Best, Federated offers specialized insurance and risk management specifically designed to protect your business. At Federated Insurance, it’s our business to protect yours. • no-obligation review of your insurance and risk management needs • free attendance at Federated Insurance Risk Management Academy seminars • referral to our network of independent estateplanning attorneys Nathan Oland NSOland@FedIns.com 507.363.6344 FederatedInsurance.com

LIG Solutions As a nationally recognized insurance agency since 2009, LIG Solutions changes the way individuals, families, businesses and groups across the country shop and enroll in healthcare products. (continued on page 58)

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FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1

Quality Matters. Caring Matters.

Every fully-cast Thumbies®, Buddies Pet Keepsake®, and Phoenix Collection® keepsake helps your families celebrate the lives of their loved ones, in ways they’ll cherish.

Since 1998, our US-based artisans have merged creativity and science to turn those materials into keepsakes so rich in detail, simply touching one fills the wearer with feelings of comfort and connection.

It’s never been more crucial to provide comfort to the families you serve. Reach out to us today and our care team will help you provide the highest level of comfort: sales@thumbies.com or 877.848.6243.

thumbies.com/why-become-a-partner

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O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K LIG specializes in offering comprehensive, turn-key insurance solutions for associations, societies, membership organizations, NGB and other affinity groups to deliver member benefit programs around health coverage. With more than 30 years of combined experience in the health, life and Medicare insurance industries, LIG has distributed more than 1.2 million insurance policies. LIG has partnerships with national, regional and local insurance carriers across the country. We deliver member benefit programs centered on health and wellness initiatives to drive retention and engagement with the communities they serve. LIGmarketing@LighthouseQuotes.com 855.594.7254 LIGmembers.com/OGR

JEWELRY Thumbies Thumbies® (est. 1998) is the original fingerprint keepsake provider. With products celebrating people and pets (Buddies Pet Keepsakes®) as well as our Phoenix Collection® cremation keepsakes, Thumbies remains the industry leader in quality and selection. Each keepsake is individually handcrafted in the U.S. Heartland by skilled artisans working with the highest-quality available raw materials, never pre-made blank metal slugs imported from China. We offer a wide range of exclusive designs and proprietary materials no other keepsake provider can match. Our unique ability to take personalization to the next level allows us to create 100% custom, made-to-order designs. We work with virtually any print source, and offer two sales models; use either or both, the choice is yours. Family Direct Ordering empowers families to purchase keepsakes on their own time, while still providing you with additional operating revenue. Help your families celebrate life and the ones they love by offering genuine Thumbies keepsakes. • volume-based discounts starting at 20% • member-exclusive keepsake design Susan Dice Director of Customer Care

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SDice@Thumbies.com 847.713.8257 Thumbies.com

MEMORIALIZATION BerylMartin Founded in 2000, BerylMartin is an art, design and digital print studio committed to providing our funeral service partners with the most stunning keepsake products available. We offer a wide variety of beautiful, personalized funeral memorial tributes and keepsakes including brochures, programs, prayer cards, thank you cards, portraits, casket panels and Fuzed glass and engraved crystal photo keepsakes. We also provide affordable printing and design services for our funeral service partners’ business needs. • first order is FREE (up to $350) • discounted shipping • exclusive OGR packages discounted up to 20% off our lowest published prices 219.922.8935 (office) WeCare@BerylMartin.com BerylMartin.com

Floracracy With small or virtual funerals, grieving family-members participating remotely and a new survey showing families value receiving personalized letters and flowers after the ceremony, Floracracy helps funeral homes send personalized letters and flowers anywhere in the U.S. to family members at the time of the funeral or in the months after it. Indeed, the most powerful gift we can give someone is a personal letter that shares meaningful stories, but most people aren’t sure how to write them. Through our free content or a broader partnership, we can help you be sure your families receive the emotional support they need. • brochures & free content around floral meanings to share with families • 10% commission on any sale or special partner packages available Sarah-Eva Marchese Sarah-Eva@Floracracy.com Floracracy.com/pages/loss

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 Funeral Home Gifts Funeral Home Gifts is the premier provider of woven and printed Tribute Blankets, custom cap panels, photo urns and personalization products to death care providers throughout North America. Made in the USA with 100% American content and delivered next day, our products comfort families, generate revenue through re-orders and provide vision to transition families from direct cremation to personalized memorial services. • free sample to try at your next service Wes Wolfe WesW@FuneralHomeGifts.com 800.233.0439, ext. 226 FuneralHomeGifts.com

SpartaCraft, Inc. The flag cases and urns we provide OGR members are the finest and most requested memorials in the USA. In addition to providing an American-made product to honor our country’s heroes, past and present, the permanence and heirloom quality of SpartaCraft memorials give the funeral provider a source of referrals for future needs of the families you serve. Personalization is a key service we provide, so with one phone call or email to OGR Products & Services, you can order a custom engraved memorial that will ship the same day! WE’RE PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE OFFICE DEPOT OFFICEMAX

BUSINESS SAVINGS PROGRAM. This exclusive program provides extensive price savings and program advantages every time you shop in-store or online. 20% to 55% off retail on cleaning & break room items. 10% off branded; 20% off private brand ink & toner core list. 20% to 55% off item office supply core list. Average 10% off retail on 200 technology core. Free next-day shipping on orders of $50 or more. SIGNIFICANT savings on copy & print. Get your Store Purchasing Card sent to your phone right now. Just text "OGRCard” to 844-446-6358. To shop online, register at http://bit.ly/OGR_OD

• 5% savings over wholesale prices SpartaCraft.com

MONUMENTS/GRAVE MARKERS McNeill Grave Marker Company Quality McNeill grave markers are available in a wide variety of styles. Contact OGR Products & Services at 800.637.8030 or supplies@OGR.org for pricing and more information.

OFFICE SUPPLIES Office Depot / OfficeMax Office Depot is a leading provider of business services, products and technology solutions to small, medium and enterprise businesses. (continued on page 60)

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O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K We use a fully integrated B2B distribution platform of approximately 1,300 stores, an online presence and dedicated sales professionals and technicians. • Get special pricing on office supplies, print and copy services in-store or online through the Business Savings Program by using the exclusive Order of the Golden Rule purchasing card. Discounts range from 5% - 55% off of retail prices. Register at OGR.org/Office-Depot

PRE-NEED Final Security Expand your pre-need offerings with Digital Estate & Legacy Planning. Protect your clients and their loved ones from cybercrimes, ensure their important files are found and protect their legacy with Final Security's: • Info Vault: collect documents, files, photos and passwords in our encrypted Info Vault to be transferred to a designated beneficiary • Device Cleaning: registered devices will be wiped clean, ensuring they pass on only the information they want to share • Social & Cloud Clean: arrange to have social media, cloud and subscription accounts closed by Final Security • My Final Goodbye: Create a video message or textonly email that will be sent after they're gone • 40% commission for any Life Level plan sold (current retail price $174.99) Christopher Huziak Partner@FinalSecurity.co 844.463.4625 FinalSecurity.co

INEX Inc. For over 20 years, INEX has been providing the deathcare industry with products that build your brand, create incremental revenue and deliver real value to your families. Closing Affairs is the most trusted executor toolkit in the industry, and it is available in three configurations to accommodate any aftercare model. In Case of Emergency is a preparedness tool that is ideal for motivating or rewarding a pre-arrangement. And Professional Processionals products increase the safety and respect of your processionals. • 10% off our regular price

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888.829.8362 info@INEXinc.com INEXinc.com

Vantage Point Preneed Vantage Point Preneed offers solutions for all funeral homes regardless of their size. We work with multiple insurance companies to offer the best preneed interest rates and commissions as well as offer many marketing solutions to help increase your preneed volume. We will take the time to understand your firm’s unique needs and goals while having the flexibility to change and adapt as your firm’s needs and goals change. • 50% discount on any of our direct mailers if you use one of our insurance companies to fund your preneeds. This will help increase your preneed volume as well as help with top-of-mind awareness in your community. Jon Billetdeaux 443.880.0583 VantagePointPreneed.com

PRINTING/PAPER PRODUCTS Bass-Mollett Bass-Mollett has been supplying the funeral industry for almost 70 years with customized solutions to funeral directors using custom stationery and supplies so each family they serve may memorialize their loved one with dignity. With four generations of family ownership, Bass-Mollett will continue to proudly serve the funeral industry for decades to come. • 10% off regular retail pricing for Bass-Mollett stationery, urns and ad specialties Contact Bass-Mollett for login information to access member benefits. Amy Mueller 618.664.3141, ext. 160 Amy.Mueller@Bass-Mollett.com for inquiries Orders@Bass-Mollett.com to place an order Bass-Mollett.com

Regal Line® Funeral Stationery & Accessory Products Regal Line Funeral Stationery Products and Accessories will assist you in building loyalty toward your business. Regal Line

FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 stationery products are one of the few items that will remain in the hands of family and friends after the funeral service is completed. It is also the family’s connection back to you when your services are needed again. 107 years of manufacturing excellence; family-owned; made in the USA.

Partners with OGR for over 30 YEARS!

• 20% discount

Regal Line Funeral Stationery Products and Accessories will assist you in building loyalty toward your business.

Contact OGR Products & Services at 800.637.8030. RegalLine.com

Messenger Proudly serving since 1913, Messenger started in the religious calendar business and is now a leading provider of funeral stationery, everyday service items and insurance funding. Messenger prides itself on being innovative and best-in-class on all fronts: products, service, operations, technology and financially. Customer-focused as well as consumer-focused, Messenger utilizes a variety of research and retail trends to ensure funeral professionals have relevant products to help them stay viable in an ever-changing marketplace. Providing a quality product line, quick turn times, technology solutions, an extensive line-up of licensed artists and an experienced service and sales team.

800 + Products • Traditional & Contemporary • Personalized • Customized

Regal Line Products are the items that will remain in the hands of family and friends after the funeral service is completed. It is also the family’s connection back to you when your services are needed again.

Create Lasting Impressions Visit our new web site:

www.RegalLine.com

Funeral Stationery & Accessory Products 107 Years of Manufacturing Excellence Made in USA • Family Owned

• 50% off first Signature order • 10% off all Signature orders • exclusive eight-week free trial with all set-up • free personalization software, training and OGR Fall Magazine Ad 2020.indd 1 8/31/2020 11:40:42 AM fees support Craig Meehan Heather Garman Craig@MyASD.com Vice President of Sales and Marketing 800.868.9950 HGarman@MessengerLLC.com MyASD.com 800.827.5151, ext. 263 MessengerStationery.com Domanicare

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASD – Answering Service for Directors ASD has created a new class of answering service for funeral professionals by raising the bar with unparalleled levels of advanced training and technology. Family-owned and -operated, ASD has been helping funeral homes manage their calls and their lives since 1972. The company's custombuilt communication systems and sophisticated mobile tools were designed solely to meet the needs of funeral homes. By offering funeral directors unmatched protection for their calls, ASD has redefined the role of an answering service for funeral homes.

Domanicare is a leader in aftercare solutions for funeral homes. Through the power of text messaging, we follow up with families and provide aftercare nurturing and free grief support materials. Our text messages see a 98% open rate and a 51% response rate. Our award-winning platform is also the first funeral home-specific platform for generating Google reviews and online reputation management. This online visibility has helped funeral homes across the country develop and leverage sales opportunities and significantly improve their families' experiences that result in recommendations and long-term customer loyalty. • First month free, 10% discount thereafter (continued on page 62)

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O G R S U P P L I E R N E T WO R K Sam Ashby Samuel@TheDomaniGroup.com 480.298.7655 Text "OGR" to 801.893.5733 to learn more about the program and claim your discount! TheDomaniGroup.com

blog articles, a funeral home branded planning webpage, co-branded emails, dedicated OGR members-only support and much, much more. 877.400.3297 sales@Everdays.com Partners.Everdays.com

Everdays Everdays is the #1 consumer EOL planning app with a base of 3 million users and growing. Through their end-of-life planning app, consumers plan and fund their funerals, and give loved ones instant access to all the details they'll need. Everdays' unique digital features give planners and their families an engaging, seamless experience, with everything they need just a tap away in an app on their phone. As an Everdays partner, your brand and home are front and center with thousands of new, modern planners in your market every day – giving them the ability to purchase their funeral in advance with your home on Everdays. • one year of complimentary access to exclusive partner program, including preferred status within Everdays' funeral home directory, inclusion in localized

URNS Bogati Urn Company Since 2004, Bogati Urn Company has been a great wholesale urn resource for professionals within the funeral industry for affordable, high-quality urns, keepsakes and memorial jewelry. Our customers rely on our products to meet the needs of their families and our warehouse has a wide selection of hundreds of urns and memorial jewelry to meet our customers’ needs. • 10% off all Bogati-brand products for call-in or emailed orders with Net 30 billing. Online orders are excluded from this offer. Ken@BogatiUrns.com 941.751.3382 BogatiUrns.com

The Davis Whitehall® Company The Davis Whitehall Co., located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has been hand-crafting custom hardwood urns made in America since 1991. We are known for our customization and personalization abilities. We recently introduced our new Textured Printing process, Creating Memories You Can Feel®. This process features an innovative UV cured printing process that delivers a lifelike image with a raised printed surface, allowing families to touch and feel the image on their cherished memorial. The warmth of the wood accentuates the raised texture of the photo, creating a truly one-of-a-kind final resting place. • 15% savings over wholesale prices Contact OGR Products & Services at 800.637.8030. 800.818.8414 Davis-Whitehall.com

Mabrey Products Industry leader in the design and manufacturing of hardwood cremation urns. Providing funeral directors and their families a high level of personalization and customization for over 30 years. Offering hand-crafted personal memorials made the

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FA L L BU Y E R ’ S G U I D E 2 0 2 1 old-fashioned way, one at a time. Proudly, and always, made in the USA. • 5% discount on urns • 3% discount for 15-day pay, net/45 day • free shipping on two or more full-size urns via UPS to contiguous United States Douglas M. Tobey Doug.Tobey@MabreyProducts.com 800.942.3799 MabreyProducts.com

Passages International Passages’ mission is the same as it was 21 years ago: helping funeral homes meet the changing needs of families by offering non-traditional and greener products. Passages offers the largest variety of eco-friendly urns, scatter tubes and caskets. The company continues to innovate and introduce new products that help funeral homes align with modern family preferences. Passages’ new Bamboo Cremation Container and Four-Point Bamboo Casket are not only better for families and the environment (than cardboard containers) they’re more profitable for funeral homes. • 10% discount on caskets & cremation containers (minimum order of 10) • 15% discount on everything else sales@PassagesInternational.com 505.830.2500 PassagesInternational.com

SinoSource International Company, Inc. SinoSource has been providing superior cremation and memorialization products to the funeral and cremation industry since 1994. Our high-value, low-cost assortment has made us the choice of thousands of cremationists — and the families they serve. The success of SinoSource is not only displayed in our products, but through the keen attention to detail delivered by our industry-experienced sales team, customer service, quality control and manufacturing personnel. Our people make us who we are. If quality and affordability matter, we invite you to experience the SinoSource difference. • 10% discount on most items Contact OGR Products & Services at 800.637.8030. 650.697.6668 service@SinoSource.biz SinoSource.biz

O G R . o rg / S u p p l i e r - N e t w o r k | 6 3

International Order of the Golden Rule 3502 Woodview Trace, Ste. 300 Indianapolis, IN 46268 www.ogr.org

Presort Std. U.S. Postage PAID Indianapolis, IN Permit #279

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION!

A generous gift from Paul Hummel will double all donations made to OGR’s Foundation from October 15 - December 31, 2021, up to a total of $2,000! FOUNDATION

OGR.org/Donate

The Independent - Fall 2021

Articles inside

We can’t do this without you: 3 cheers for our suppliers!