Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats

What does it take to care for the places where we honour and remember those we've lost? In this episode of Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats, hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster sit down with J-P Narbonne, Manager of Cemeteries for the City of Niagara Falls, to explore the vital work of front-line cemetery professionals. From preparing for interments and maintaining beautiful, peacefu...

In this episode, hosts Darren and Kate explore one of the most essential — and often unseen — parts of the bereavement profession: the support teams and specialized service providers that help funeral homes care for families every day. Joining the conversation is Allan Cole, President and Owner of MacKinnon & Bowes Ltd., a company often described as a “funeral home to funeral homes.” With near...

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to be a funeral director in Ontario—beyond the title and into the heart of the profession. Joined by Heather Earle, Managing Director of Adams Funeral Home in Barrie and OACFP Board Member, we unpack the roles and responsibilities of both Class 1 and Class 2 Funeral Directors, with a closer look at the growing importance of the Class 2 designation. F...

In this episode, we take a closer look at one of the most important — and least visible — roles in the bereavement sector: The Cremation Technician. Hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster are joined by Rick Whittingstall of St. John’s Dixie Cemetery and Crematorium (Mississauga) and Mark Walker of Southwest Crematoriums (Milton). Together, they provide an inside look at the work that takes place b...

In this episode, we take a closer look at a role that is often misunderstood but essential to how cemeteries serve families and communities. Hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster are joined by Meaghan Shanahan, Director of Family Services, and Solange McConnell, Director of Cemetery Operations at Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services. Together, they unpack the work behind cemetery sa...

In this episode, we shine a light on a role that is often misunderstood but deeply impactful — the  Funeral Pre-Planner . Our guest,  Laura Eccles , Funeral Pre-Planner with  Patterson Funeral Home , joins us to explain what pre-planning really involves and why it plays such an important role for families, funeral homes, and the broader bereavement sector. Laura walks us through the day-to-day res...

How do we support grieving families during the holidays? In this December episode, Darren and Kate sit down with Krystall Riddell to explore the emotional complexity that the holiday season brings for many individuals and families experiencing loss. From heightened emotions and disrupted traditions to the comfort found in rituals and remembrance, we look at how the bereavement sector can create sp...

In this episode of Common Ground, hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster explore how early planning — from drafting a will to documenting final wishes — helps families, executors, and professionals navigate loss with clarity and compassion. Joining the conversation are Andrea Love, OACFP Board Member and President & CEO of Legacy Private Trust, and Mark O’Farrell, CEO of The Canadian Institute...

In the demanding world of funeral, cemetery, and cremation services, where compassion is paramount, professionals often face immense emotional tolls. This episode shares personal experiences and actionable insights on navigating mental health challenges, burnout, and perfectionism, offering a lifeline of support and understanding. Guest  Jimmy Cardinal  joins hosts  Darren and Kate  for a candid c...

How do we balance heartfelt service with the operational demands of our profession? In this special pre-conference episode, we sit down with  Christina Furtado-Burke , Family Services Coordinator at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Chair of the 2025 OACFP Conference Committee, to explore the theme shaping this year’s event:  The Business of Compassion. Christina shares her personal entry into the bereav...

In this episode of Common Ground, Darren and Kate explore the critical role of business education and leadership development in the bereavement sector. Joined by Terry Eccles, past president of OACFP, they discuss the evolving challenges faced by bereavement professionals and the importance of balancing compassion with business acumen to ensure the sector’s future success. Terry Eccles attended Hu...

In this insightful episode of Common Ground Bereavement Sector Chats, hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster from OACFP delve into the intricacies of cemetery operations with special guest J.P. Narbonne, Manager of Cemeteries for the City of Niagara Falls. The discussion centers around the OACFP Frontline Cemetery Training Program, a hands-on event designed to equip cemetery staff with essential s...

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of adapting to change, the importance of human connection, and the enduring power of compassion in the face of loss. Darren, Kate and guest Allan Job dive into the history of the OACFP, exploring its transformation from a traditional trade association to a dynamic organization that serves both businesses and individuals. Allan’s journey from a summer job cut...

This episode of Common Ground Bereavement Sector Chats explores the evolving landscape of funeral, cremation, and cemetery services, focusing on the perspectives and expectations of the next generation of professionals. Our guest, Dave Perry, a seasoned bereavement professional, shares his insights on the changing dynamics of the funeral and cemetery sector. We discuss the changing workplace cultu...

This episode tackles critical staffing challenges in the funeral, cremation, and cemetery sectors. Hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster explore recruitment, retention, training, and burnout issues, featuring insights from funeral directors Jay Branton and Adam Rogalsky, who share their experiences and strategies for attracting and retaining talent in this demanding yet rewarding profession. The...

This episode stems from the 2025 OACFP Women’s Symposium. The discussion centres on the unique contributions of women to the bereavement sector, addressing common challenges, and highlighting the importance of mentorship and networking. The episode features interviews with several women leaders who share their personal experiences and insights, offering a blend of professional advice and personal...

In today's episode, we explore the rising trends in cremation, particularly in Ontario, and the factors driving this shift in family preferences. Hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster lead a discussion with guests Philippe Lauriault, OACFP Board Member, Chair of the Crematorium Operators Program Committee and Assistant Manager, Cremation Services for the Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of Hami...

In this episode, we're diving into a crucial topic reshaping the funeral, cremation, and cemetery services profession: sustainability and eco-friendly funeral trends. As families increasingly seek options that align with their values and minimize their ecological footprint, our industry is adapting with innovative solutions. Join hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster, along with special guest...

In the inaugural episode of “Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats,” the hosts delve into the vital role of professionals in the funeral, cremation, and cemetery services industry. Through the inspiring journey of John Parrada, listeners gain insight into the depth and significance of the profession, as well as the importance of fostering awareness and outreach to attract new talent to the field...