Funeral Directors Can’t Quit Their Annual PSL Tradition

I’ve been living a double life.

Most of you know me as the person who drops a weekly batch of funeral industry satire in the FFFW. But here’s the twist—when I’m not poking fun at embalming fluid and grief dogs, I’m actually a signed recording artist in Nashville with Capital CMG.

This year, music has become my main focus. Still, I love this profession too much to step away from the FFFW. Honestly, writing this every week is one of my highlights.

And speaking of highlights— My boss, Ryan Thogmartin, has been nudging me to plug my music here for a while now, and I think today’s the day. So, here it is: I just released my debut EP, OUTSKIRTS (a 7-song record).

No, it’s not funeral themed (though now I’m wondering what a concept album about embalming would sound like). But if you enjoy the FFFW and want to hear what else I create, I’d love for you to check it out. Maybe there’s a song or two on there that’ll hit home for you.

CHECK IT OUT HERE

Hey, also what’s really cool is that Kyle from MemoryShare has been one of my #1 encouragers through this whole process. So check out what he and his incredible company are doing!

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Funeral Home Owner Trots Out Annual “Pumpkin Spice Latte” Joke, Staff Politely Laugh for 7th Straight Year

SPRINGFIELD, MO – Fall has officially arrived at Whitmore Funeral Chapel, marked not by the changing leaves or the chill in the air, but by the predictable sound of owner Dale Whitmore recycling his annual joke at the expense of his younger staff.

The moment occurred Monday morning when apprentice director Kyle Hastings walked in holding a Starbucks cup. Without missing a beat, Dale quipped: “Careful with that—real men drink black coffee.”

Witnesses confirm it’s the seventh consecutive year Dale has delivered the same joke, with the exact same smirk, and the same dramatic pause afterward. “He actually chuckled at his own line before anyone else could react,” said embalmer Jeff. “That’s when we knew: fall is here.”

At this point, the bit has become something of an office tradition. “It’s less about the joke and more about watching Dale’s face light up like he’s reinvented stand-up comedy,” Kyle explained. “We chuckle, we nod, and we move on with our day. It’s basically our version of putting up the Halloween décor.”

Other staff admit they quietly prepare for it. “I order a PSL every October just so Dale can get it out of his system,” said grief counselor Paula. “It’s cheaper than therapy.”

Despite growing weariness from employees, Dale shows no signs of retiring the gag. “As long as Starbucks keeps selling those things, I’m gonna keep saying it,” he said proudly. “Tradition matters in this profession.”

When asked if he ever considered a new joke, Dale shook his head. “Why mess with perfection?”

Trivia

Choose the correct answer and you’ll see a puppy. Get it wrong and you’ll see someone hurting themselves.

When adjusted for inflation and modern currency, who’s funeral was the most expensive in history?

What is the most expensive funeral ever recorded in modern history?
A) Alexander the Great’s funeral
B) Princess Diana’s funeral
C) Pope John Paul II’s funeral

You Otter Be Proud

Here’s some good news going on in the profession.

1. This Milford nonprofit helps families with high funeral costs
2. People Magazine Covers Funeral Profession Story
3. Fifth-generation funeral director Jeff Monreal helps families grieve, celebrate loved ones

CANA Members Elect Leaders at Annual Meeting

WHEELING, IL— In August 2025, members of the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) attending the hybrid Annual Meeting at the 107^th Annual Cremation Convention in Phoenix re-elected one incumbent board member, elected two new directors, and passed the gavel to new CANA President Lindsey Ballard. Members also recognized the service of three individuals retiring from board service.  

CANA’s President for the 2025-2026 year is third-generation funeral director Lindsey Ballard, co-owner of Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation with locations in Jordan, Prior Lake, and Shakopee, Minnesota. “Serving as CANA president means so much to me. It really is an honor to be a part of an organization that is so progressive and has strong values,” stated Ballard. “I’m very excited to be a president during the sesquicentennial of modern cremation. I know there will be several meaningful projects in the year ahead that will allow us to look back at our history and also see how things have changed over time. I also see this as an opportunity to look toward the future . . . where is cremation going? This is a very exciting time for cremation and CANA, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.” 

CANA’s membership elected two new members to the Board of Directors to lead the association in the coming years. 

Daniel “Dan” Applegate, President/CEO of The Arlington Memorial Gardens in Cincinnati, Ohio, has worked in the cemetery and funeral profession for over 20 years and is past secretary/treasurer of the Ohio Cemetery Association. “I bring practical leadership experience and skills, a passion for innovation, and also a deep respect for the evolving needs of families and practitioners in an evolving field,” Applegate remarked. “CANA is leading the way in shaping the future of death care. I am proud to support and add to that forward-looking vision.” 

Katie La Bella, Director of Operations of St. Michael’s Cemetery and Crematory in East Elmhurst, New York, has over 20 years of experience across the funeral profession as a licensed funeral director, crematory manager, and in cemetery operations. “I am passionate about helping others and advancing the funeral and cremation industries. I am eager to bring my diverse experience, strong work ethic, and commitment to quality to the CANA Board,” La Bella said. “By advancing education and innovation, CANA can continue to empower professionals to meet the evolving needs of the families they serve while setting new standards for service, sustainability, and community engagement in the cremation industry.”  

Evans Baldwin, Vice President of Sales for Foundation Partners Group based in Winter Park, Florida, joins the CANA Board to complete the one-year term vacated by a prior board member. Baldwin has worked in funeral service for over 20 years including his leadership at Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society, which has multiple locations across Florida. “I am proud to join the CANA Board to advocate for innovation, best practices, and educational opportunities within the cremation industry,” explained Baldwin. “My vision for CANA is to make it the most progressive industry association via education opportunities and driving innovation. I aim to help grow CANA’s membership base by offering valuable resources and ensuring that all members are equipped to adapt to evolving industry trends.”  

Stephen Bassett, Vice President of Cemetery Operations at Legacy Funeral Group based in Houston, Texas, was re-elected to serve a second term on the board. The Board of Directors elected Tim Koch, Owner of Metro First Call in St. Paul, Minnesota, to serve as an officer on the Executive Committee as Third Vice President, and Robbie Pape, Senior Vice President and Eastern Regional Partner of Carriage in Houston, Texas, as Treasurer. 

CANA’s Board of Directors is complete with: 

• Lindsey Ballard of Ballard Sunder Funeral Home in Jordan, Minnesota, CANA President; 

• Denis Desrochers of Grégoire Desrochers in Victoriaville, Quebec, President Elect; 

• Sandra Walker of Pacific Northwest Cremation in Spokane, Washington, First Vice President; 

• William “Bill” Clark of Kootenay Enterprises Inc. in Trail, British Columbia, Second Vice President; 

• Timothy “Tim” Koch of Metro First Call in St. Paul, Minnesota, Third Vice President; 

• Robbie Pape of Carriage in Houston, Texas, CANA Treasurer;  

• Ryan Wiseman of Porter Funeral Homes in Kansas City, Kansas, Immediate Past President;  

• Judy Olson of National Guardian Life Insurance Company, CANA Supplier Liaison;  

• Daniel “Dan” Applegate of The Arlington Memorial Gardens; 

• Evans Baldwin of Foundation Partners Group;  

• Stephen “Steve” Bassett of Legacy Funeral Group; 

• Dirk Bearden of Service Corporation International;  

• John Goobeck of Bill DeBerry Funeral Directors;  

• Katie La Bella of St. Michael’s Cemetery and Crematory; 

• Jimmy Lucas of Lucas Funeral Homes; 

• C.R. Lyons of C.R. Lyons & Sons Funeral Directors; 

• Katie Sullivan Frideres of the Cremation Society of Illinois; 

• Lara M. Price of Pappas Grubbs Price PC, CANA General Counsel; 

• E. Gene Allen of Kerrville Funeral Home, Education Liaison; and, 

• Caressa Hughes of Service Corporation International, Technical Advisor – Government and Legal Affairs. 

The Membership recognized Past President Robert Hunsaker for his commitment to promoting CANA in the association’s ongoing mission of service to the profession. His leadership ensured CANA’s future success as a leader in the profession for years to come. The Membership also recognized Jason Widing of Foundation Partners Group for the completion of his term of service to the board of directors and Tim Borden of Borden Enterprises for his service as Treasurer. We are grateful for their service to our association and the profession.  

CANA thanks its Board of Directors and all those who serve on its Advisory Groups and as CANA Ambassadors for their dedication to CANA and funeral service. These leaders volunteer their time and talent to ensure continued recognition for CANA as the trusted authority and educator on all aspects of cremation. Find more information and learn how to get involved on CANA’s website: cremationassociation.org/BoardofDirectors 

About CANA 

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,700 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization. 

New Orleans to Host Selected Independent Funeral Homes’ Annual Meeting

Former U.S. Navy Commander to keynote on “Pillars of Leadership”

LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill – July 1, 2025 – Selected Independent Funeral Homes, the premier association of independently‑owned funeral professionals, announces its 107th Annual Meeting, set for September 28 – October 1, 2025, at The Ritz Carlton, New Orleans.

The Annual Meeting will unite leaders for four days of powerful connection, cutting‑edge sessions, and fresh perspective on the funeral profession. Attendees will experience actionable leadership tools, professional development, and can earn up to 10.0 continuing education credits.

The event’s keynote address will be given by Cmdr. Kirk Lippold, USN (ret.). Lippold and his crew saved the USS Cole from sinking when the ship was bombed by al Qaeda in a fatal terrorist attack at the port of Aden, Yemen, on October 12, 2000.

“Commander Lippold’s insights, drawn from his experience during a devastating incident, reveal how integrity fostered an empowered and inclusive leadership environment,” said Tom Antram, Selected President. “His ‘Pillars of Leadership’ offer essential business tenets, proving that personal accountability and ownership are vital for any successful team.”

The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center, a celebrated employment brand, will also serve as a living case study on cultivating a culture of excellence at the meeting’s general session. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to glean best practices directly from the hotel’s renowned approach.

“Our colleagues and industry leaders will gain invaluable insights into The Ritz-Carlton’s renowned culture of excellence,” adds Antram. “This is a unique opportunity to learn actionable strategies for sustainable processes, how to cultivate employee and customer engagement, and understand the vital role of empowerment in delivering legendary service.”

Registration is open for in-person or virtual attendance at this year’s Annual Meeting. Members interested should visit the Annual Meeting page on the association’s website.

About Selected Independent Funeral Homes

Celebrating more than a century of service excellence, Selected Independent Funeral Homes advances the independent funeral profession through best‑in‑class education, peer connection, and innovative member solutions. Its Annual Meeting serves as the premier gathering to shape the future of funeral service. For more information, visit the website and follow the association on Facebook, “X”, and LinkedIn.

Selected Independent Funeral Homes Lets the Good Times Roll at 107th Annual Meeting in New Orleans

LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill. – June 17, 2025 – The world’s leading independent funeral service professionals will gather in New Orleans, LA for Selected Independent Funeral Homes’ 107th Annual Meeting at The Ritz-Carlton on September 28 – October 1.

True to this year’s theme of “Let the Good Times Roll,” participants will have ample opportunities to network with colleagues, experience engaging educational sessions and obtain valuable continuing education credit. During the meeting, the Association will induct its newest Board Representatives and Officers, while recognizing the contributions of its outgoing Officers.

Keynote speaker Commander Kirk Lippold, USN (Ret.) will present “Leadership & Accountability When It Matters.” Commander Lippold was the Commanding Officer of the USS Cole when it came under a fatal terrorist attack by al Qaeda in the port of Aden, Yemen, on October 12, 2000. Using his experience from this devastating terrorist attack as a backdrop, Commander Lippold conveys how the principle of integrity created a diverse and inclusive environment for leadership where his crew felt empowered with a sense of ownership, seizing the opportunity to be responsible for their ship, and not just their jobs.

The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center, an award-winning employment brand, will present “A Culture of Excellence: Building Success from Within” during the General Session. They will share best practices on how to activate and sustain a culture where valued and empowered employees own the customer experience. Leaders ready to transform their organization will walk away with actionable ideas to elevate experiences and engage employees.

Many other dynamic speakers will share valuable insights at the Annual Meeting. View details of all speakers and sessions online. Additional highlights will include the following:

• Up to 10.0 hours of continuing education credit (1.0 CE Units) by the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice and states requiring CE. (Approvals vary by state.)
• Recognition of Selected Membership Milestone anniversaries.
• Induction of Selected’s 2025-2026 Board Chair and President, 2025-2029 Board Directors and recognition of outgoing Officers.
• Recognition of the Selected Educational Trust’s Ambassador of the Year Awards.
• Opportunities to connect with Selected’s Preferred Partners both at their individual displays and during informational “Conversation Café” sessions.
• Several members-only sessions and activities for Selected members including luncheons for members of Selected’s Communities.
• Two days of exclusive Selected Study Groups events for Selected Study Groups participants.

“For more than 100 years, Selected has used our Annual Meeting as a catalyst for positive change and an incubator for innovation,” said Tom Antram, 2024-2025 Selected President. “The good times happen when we are together. I’m excited to Let the Good Times Roll as we gather in New Orleans this fall!”

Spots are filling quickly! Register and make your hotel reservations today.

About Selected Independent Funeral Homes:

For more than 100 years, Selected Independent Funeral Homes has been the leading association of independently owned death care providers. The Association connects leaders in funeral service by delivering innovative and pertinent resources, solutions and ongoing support to its international network. These leaders transform care as they aspire to the highest quality standards and best practices. As the capstone of Selected’s year, the Annual Meeting gives members and participants an opportunity to create the future of funeral service.

CANA Releases 2025 Annual Cremation Statistics Report: Shows National Cremation Rate Growth Slowing

WHEELING, IL— The Cremation Association of North America (CANA) continues its commitment to providing accurate and comprehensive cremation statistics to the death care industry and consumers. With over 25 years of data collection from state and provincial vital statistics departments, CANA’s cremation statistics are widely regarded as the most reliable and current in the field. The latest reports for 2025 have been released, featuring final 2023 cremation data, newly released 2024 data, and projections to 2029 and 2034. 

CANA’s research shows that the national cremation rate has grown steadily and predictably for the last 50 years, indicating that neither the recession nor the pandemic have influenced the growth rate on a national level. After decades of rapid growth in the United States, CANA can confirm that the national growth rate is slowing after reaching 61.8% in 2024. It is a common statistical occurrence for the growth rate to slow once it hits 80%. 

SLOWER, BUT STEADY GROWTH IN CREMATION NATIONALLY  

CANA’s 2025 Annual Statistics Report shows that the annual cremation growth rate is slowing overall. This supports the association’s observation over the past few years that the US is entering a “deceleration” period of cremation. The US is 15 years behind Canada, where the cremation rate surpassed 76.7% in 2024.  

By 2033, CANA research predicts the cremation rate in all states will reach or exceed 50%, with the national rate surpassing 70%. In 2025, there are only six states where the cremation rate has not yet reached 50%; six states and four provinces have already surpassed 80%. After adding a new color to the popular “heat” maps of cremation rates to highlight the individual states and provinces with cremation rates above 80%, CANA has now retired the color that indicated states where the cremation rate had not reached 30%. 

“These cremation statistics can be applied to a range of business decisions, helping you to weigh your options in a number of ways,” said CANA President Ryan Wiseman, co-owner of Porter Funeral Homes in Kansas City, KS, and Lenexa, KS, and the Cremation Society of Kansas and Missouri, which has four locations around the Kansas City area. “I can speak from personal experience about the value and practical application for this information when you’re looking for help to guide the choices you make on behalf of your business. The CANA statistics were fundamental in helping us make the decision to open our Cremation Society location 20 years ago. Based on the data in CANA’s annual report, we were able to project what the future was to bring and estimate what families would be looking for when a loved one would die.” 

OTHER FORMS OF DISPOSITION 

CANA tracks data on all forms of disposition, including the newest forms of cremation – alkaline hydrolysis (AH, also known as water cremation) and natural organic reduction (NOR, also known as human composting). Practitioners, consumers and media outlets often ask about the effect of new forms of disposition on the cremation rate, but CANA’s estimated data shows that AH and NOR processes remain a negligible factor at this point. They account for 0.3% in states where the methods are practiced and 0.1% nationally. AH and NOR are not currently affecting the cremation rates at the state, provincial or national levels. 

ABOUT CANA RESEARCH 

The Cremation Association of North America (CANA) publishes the Annual Cremation Statistics Report and other research to illuminate trends in the profession. This research is often used by the media to shape their articles and by CANA’s members to guide their future business plans. Derived from six data models, CANA publishes projections with accuracy, leaning conservative, to deliver reliable information to the leaders of the profession. 

In addition to the Annual Statistics Report, CANA will be conducting several other research projects to provide insights into cremation arrangement practices, modern cremation practices, and consumer awareness and preference for traditional and emerging disposition methods. The association remains committed to gathering accurate and comprehensive cremation statistics to serve the needs of the death care industry and consumers. 

CANA research is available exclusively for members of the association. For more information on CANA’s statistics, visit www.cremationassociation.org/IndustryStatistics. 

CANA Members can read the full report in The Cremationist or log in to www.cremationassociation.org/CremationistMagazine. 

### 

About CANA 

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,700 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization. 

Selected’s 2024 Annual Meeting at Disney Delivers the Magic of Connection

Lake Buena Vista, Fla. — October 8, 2024 — More than 400 members and guests of Selected Independent Funeral Homes gathered at Disney’s Grand Floridian Convention Center and virtually for the 2024 Annual Meeting held September 25–28. The association’s premier event connected leaders from around the world and celebrated “The Magic of Connection.”

Magic was in the air as the event launched with the Welcome Celebration. Participants reconnected with friends and made new acquaintances over dinner, drinks and an exclusive photo shoot with Disney^® characters.

Throughout the meeting, dynamic speakers highlighted relevant topics ranging from personnel management, organizational culture development, change management, funeral home merchandising and the future of funeral service.

In the session, “Maximize Your Leadership: Navigating the Five Types of People,” keynote Dr. Sherene McHenry, The People IQ Expert, helped participants adjust their leadership strategies based on the five common traits of the individuals on their teams.

In “The Trust Imperative: Bridging Divides for a Culture of Belonging and Organizational Effectiveness,” Desmond Lomax of the Arbinger Institute led participants to explore actionable insights on what is and isn’t working to build trust and belonging within their businesses.

Panel discussions featured Selected Members sharing guidance and proven practices in ownership succession to family members or key employees as well as tactics to recruit and retain top staff talent. This year’s event featured multiple “Members-Only Exchange” sessions and “Conversation Café” presentations from Selected Preferred Partners.

Lunch became the most important meal of the day for members of Selected’s four Communities as they dined together. Sponsors of Selected’s FirstGen and Funeral Home + Cemetery Management Communities shared presentations tailored to each group’s needs and members discussed pressing issues with their peers. Selected thanks Community Sponsors Full-Circle Aftercare, Kelco and PlotBox.

Selected inducted new Board Officers during the meeting. Tom Antram of French Funerals & Cremations will serve as President and John Keohane of Keohane Funeral Home will serve as Board Chair. New Board members Brad Pingel of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors, Inc. and Dan Kochapski of Carmon Community Funeral Homes were inducted into their leadership roles as well.

In addition, Selected recognized five firms for 75 years of continuous membership:

• W.L. Case & Co. – Saginaw, Mich.
• Jones Funeral Home, Inc. – Winchester, Va.
• Penzien & Steele Funeral Home, Inc. – Bay City, Mich.
• Rader Funeral Home, Inc. – Kilgore, Texas
• Turner & Porter Funeral Directors – Toronto, Canada

The following firms celebrated 50 years of continuous membership:

• Hauger-Zeigler Funeral Home – Somerset, Pa.
• Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home, Inc. – Methuen, Mass.
• Striffler Family Funeral Homes . . . Since 1866 – McKeesport, Pa.

The 2025 Annual Meeting will be held at the Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans, September 28–October 1, 2025. For more information on Selected’s meetings, programs, becoming a member of Selected Independent Funeral Homes or to locate a member, visit selectedfuneralhomes.org or call 800-323-4219.

About Selected Independent Funeral Homes: Selected Independent Funeral Homes  delivers innovative and pertinent resources, solutions and ongoing support necessary for enduring excellence to its international network of independently owned death care providers who aspire to be the very best in their profession. Members of Selected operate according to specific standards and best practices to provide the public with reliable, high-quality service and funeral-related information.

CANA Membership Elects Leaders at Annual Meeting

WHEELING, IL— In September 2024, members of the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) attending the Annual Meeting at the 106^th Annual Cremation Convention in Chicago re-elected two incumbent board members, elected one new director, and passed the gavel to new CANA President Ryan Wiseman. They also recognized the service of two individuals retiring from board service. 

INTRODUCING CANA’S 2024-2025 PRESIDENT

Ryan Wiseman is a co-owner of both Porter Funeral Homes in Kansas City and Lenexa, Kansas, and the Cremation Society of Kansas and Missouri, which has four locations around the Kansas City area. “As CANA President, I hope to continue to build the membership of CANA and to grow the organization as a whole,” remarked Wiseman. “I’m always excited to spread the word about an association that helps to keep me informed about the latest industry news and trends. This wealth of knowledge helps me to run and maintain a business based on a solid foundation of best practices and input and advice from the best minds in professional deathcare.”

NEWLY ELECTED TO THE CANA BOARD

New elected board member Katie Sullivan Frideres, Vice President of Cremation Society of Illinois in Chicago, Illinois, has over 20 years of cremation industry experience. “At Cremation Society of Illinois, we’ve always promoted inclusion at every level,” Sullivan Frideres said. “Choosing cremation allows for both traditional and non-traditional ceremonies, ensuring everyone’s preferences are respected and celebrated. I aim to continue fostering this open mindset, promoting inclusion, and bringing my experience to the CANA board.” 

CANA’s new Supplier Liaison is Judy Olson, VP – Sales & Business Development for National Guardian Life (NGL) based in Madison, Wisconsin. Judy was elected by the Supplier Members of the Association. Her unique role is to represent the interests and needs of the businesses that supply goods and services to the funeral profession. Olson has worked for NGL for over 16 years and has regularly participated in CANA events since 2017. “During my tenure,” Olson explained, “I will focus on continually educating myself so I can, in turn, help educate and share information. I see CANA as an association that is focused on the well-being of its members and encourages collaboration and partnership. I enjoy collaborating with others so will make sure to get to know all the suppliers that support the Association, as well as the active members, so I can help make effective connections.” 

Dirk Bearden, Managing Director, PCC and Crematory Operations for Service Corporation International based in Houston, Texas, was re-elected to serve a second term on the board along with John Goobeck, Manager at Bill DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton, Texas. Bill Clark, Managing Director of Kootenay Enterprises, Inc. in Trail, British Columbia, was elected by the board of directors to serve as an officer on the Executive Committee as Third Vice President.

CANA’s Board of Directors is complete with:

• Ryan Wiseman of Porter Funeral Homes in Kansas City, Kansas, CANA President; 
• Lindsey Ballard of Ballard Sunder Funeral Home in Jordan, Minnesota, President Elect;
• Denis Desrochers of Grégoire Desrochers in Victoriaville, Quebec, First Vice President;
• Sandra Walker of Pacific Northwest Cremation in Spokane, Washington, Second Vice President;
• William “Bill” Clark of Kootenay Enterprises Inc. in Trail, British Columbia, Third Vice President;
• Timothy “Tim” Borden of Borden Mortuary Group in Louisville, Kentucky, CANA Treasurer; 
• Robert Hunsaker of Serenity Funeral Home in St. George, Utah, Immediate Past President;
• Judy Olson of National Guardian Life Insurance Company, CANA Supplier Liaison; 
• E. Gene Allen of Kerrville Funeral Home;
• Stephen “Steve” Bassett of Legacy Funeral Group;
• Dirk Bearden of Service Corporation International; 
• John Goobeck of Bill DeBerry Funeral Directors; 
• Timothy “Tim” Koch of Metro First Call;
• Jimmy Lucas of Lucas Funeral Homes;
• C.R. Lyons of C.R. Lyons & Sons Funeral Directors;
• Katie Sullivan Frideres of the Cremation Society of Illinois;
• Jason Widing of Foundation Partners Group; and
• Lara M. Price of Pappas Grubbs Price PC, CANA General Counsel.

RETIRING BOARD

The Membership also recognized two retiring Board Members. Past President Caressa Hughes has concluded her role as Officer and will begin her service as Technical Liaison for Government and Legal Affairs. As President from 2022-2023, Caressa Hughes, Assistant Vice President of Government and Industry Relations for Service Corporation International, guided the Association through many important projects. She helped conduct communications with the Federal Trade Commission regarding changes to The Funeral Rule and oversaw development of a new three-year strategic plan. 

Kim Price of Memory Glass served two terms as Supplier Liaison, from 2018 to 2024. Her passion, commitment, and drive for CANA and the profession are unmatched and propelled the association during her six-year tenure. We are grateful for their service to our association and the profession. 

CANA thanks its Board of Directors and all those who serve on its Advisory Groups for their dedication to CANA and funeral service. These leaders volunteer their time and talent to ensure continued recognition for CANA as the trusted authority and educator on all aspects of cremation. Find more information and learn how to get involved on CANA’s website: cremationassociation.org/BoardofDirectors

About CANA

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,700 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization.

Tampa Bay Welcomes Back the ICCFA Annual Convention & Exposition, April 10-13, 2024: A Premier Gathering for Professional Excellence

STERLING, VA (March 6, 2024) – This year, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is returning to Tampa Bay and docks on April 10-13 at the Tampa Marriott Water Street and Tampa Convention Center. Join thousands of deathcare professionals at this convention to expand your knowledge, learn from world-class keynote speakers, participate in educational breakout sessions, visit our expansive exhibit hall for the latest goods and services and connect with deathcare professionals worldwide. Currently, we have 225 exhibiting companies, and they occupy 428 booths within the exhibit hall. Limited booth space is still available. This is a can’t-miss event.

The convention is highlighted by two incredible keynote speakers on Thursday, April 11, at 2:30 p.m. and Friday, April 12, at 9 a.m., respectfully. The 2024 keynote speakers include:

     SHAWN ANCHOR is a New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Advantage and Big Potential. Shawn is a world-leading expert on the connection between happiness and success who has worked with many Fortune 100 companies, including places like the NFL, the Pentagon and the U.S. Treasury. Shawn’s presentation, “Big Potential: How Transforming the Pursuit of Sucess Raises Our Achievement, Happiness, and Well-Being,” will show us that pursuing potential in an interconnected way is how we can achieve our potential in business and education. Shawn will share five strategies for achieving success and applying them to work and home life.

     BRIAN SOLIS is a world-renowned digital anthropologist, futurist, award-winning author and global keynote speaker. Brian has been called “one of the more creative and brilliant business minds of our time” by Forbes. Brian speaks on disruptive trends and technologies and their impacts on business and society. Brian will present “Ignite Moments! How to Become a “Customer Company” in an ever-evolving world where Artificial Intelligence (AI) blurs the lines between physical and digital experiences. Brian will also demonstrate how “ignite moments” deliver personalization, warmth, and connected experiences that people love, remember and share.

The 2024 ICCFA Exposition Hall Grand Opening & Reception will commence on Wednesday, April 10, at 4:15 p.m., inviting all attendees to partake in the festivities and refreshments. The exhibit hall will remain open on Thursday, April 11, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The President’s Banquet, now scheduled for Thursday at 6 p.m., ensures that attendees won’t miss out on this significant event. Following the banquet reception, the evening will feature the annual Celebration of Remembrance, recognition of the 2023 Keeping It Personal Award winners and the induction of Fred Lappin, CCE, into the ICCFA Hall of Fame for his outstanding service to the association, the deathcare profession, and the public.

A highlight of the evening will be the ICCFA Presidential transfer, marking the end of Robbie Pape’s term and the introduction of Lee Longino as the incoming President. The night will culminate with comedian Josh Blue, sharing his stand-up routine and off-the-cuff improvisational skills.

The breakout sessions, designed to be a great learning experience to stimulate professional growth, will incorporate sessions on how to lead and develop staff, new cemetery developments in the 21st century, consumer expectations and tips on hiring new staff and retaining top talent. Program details, information on how to exhibit, hotel booking links and registration information are available at iccfa.com/annual.

###Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.