FALL 2020
BULLETIN
PUBLISHED QUARTERLY FOR MINNESOTA FUNERAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION MEMBERS
MFDA Welcomes 2020-2021 President Kelly J. Kelly Below is our MFDA President Kelly J. Kelly’s speech from her installation on June 29, 2020 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home in Rochester. Visit MFDA’s Facebook page or MFDA’s Online Community to watch our MFDA Officer Installation video. I started my time in funeral service in 1996 in a small town in Central Ohio. Interestingly, I worked for a firm that had the upmost respect for their competitor. I was told under no circumstances do we drive the hearse by the competitor’s funeral home on service day. If it meant we drove 5 blocks out of the way, that is what we did as to not rub in their face that we had a funeral and they didn’t. Mr. Price had and taught integrity. Over the years, I have seen that slowly change due to changing times. But, what I have witnessed in the past several months (due to Covid) is the fact that funeral homes and funeral directors have had to band together, share ideas and share resources. It personally gave me a renewed appreciation. Although we may
function day to day a little different than fellow firms, the truth is at the end of the day we all have the same common goal, happy families. Funeral service, one of the oldest professions, rooted in strong tradition
has been anything but easy the past few months for all of us. I, like many don’t adapt easily to change. Most of us have had to step out of our comfort zones, be forward thinking and innovative in these challenging times for families that are already facing a difficult time, to bring them some sort of normalcy. We have had to rely on creative thinking to accommodate the tradition of the family’s needs while honoring the deceased. Listening to how funeral homes have overcome these challenges with drive through visitations, broadcasting services through AM/FM transmitters, live streaming funerals, messages on balloons placed in their chapel are just a few of the ways that funeral homes have met this challenge head on. We often get stuck in our ways, ways that have worked for us for decades. Thank you to all of those that shared what you were doing to help others navigate through these unprecedented times. Continued on page 6…
Inside: Grief Camp During the Time of Corona
Change Service Requested Minnesota Funeral Directors Association 7046 East Fish Lake Road Maple Grove, MN 55311
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Minnesota Funeral Directors Association
Message From the President............................... Cover, 6
MFDA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Kelly J. Kelly Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes Kasson, MN kjkell0803@yahoo.com Treasurer Brian Dingmann Dingmann Funeral Care Burial & Cremation Services, Annandale, MN brian@dingmannfuneral.com
In This Issue Executive Director’s Report.............................................4
Secretary Open Past President Chris Jacobson Fredrikson-Ganje Funeral Home Ada, MN chris.jacobson@tlcofduluth.com
Legislative Update............................................................5 Grief Camp During the Time of Corona..........................6 U of M Mortuary Science Update................................ 8-9 MDH Guidance for Gatherings.................................10-14 2021 MFDA Bulletin Advertising....................................15 NFDA Recognizes Pursuit of Excellence Winners.......... 16 Federated HR Question of the Month........................... 17 FFCRA - Employee Posting Requirements....................18 LifeSource Update.......................................................... 19 Book Review: “Lost Companions”.................................20
DISTRICT DIRECTORS Joe Mahn (District 1) Mahn Family Funeral and Cremation Services, Red Wing, MN jmahn62@hotmail.com Tonya D. Borth (District 2) Kolden Funeral Home Le Sueur, MN tonya_04@hotmail.com Marquis Madison (District 3) Totzke Funeral Home Fulda, MN totzke@mchsi.com
POLICY BOARD REPRESENTATIVE Leif Larsen Green-Larsen Mortuary International Falls, MN larsen_625@msn.com
PAST PRESIDENT REP Ken Peterson, CFSP
Johnson-Peterson Funeral Home White Bear Lake, MN petersonkb@gmail.com
STAFF
Lance Peterson (District 4/5) Peterson Brothers Funeral Home and Cremation Service Willmar, MN lance@petersonbrothers.com
Darlyne Erickson, CAE Executive Director
Scott Benson (District 6/7) Gearty-Delmore Funeral Chapel, Inc. Robbinsdale, MN sbenson@delmore.com
Amy Beckham (Administrative)
Sara Thompson (District 8) Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services Sauk Centre, MN sthompson@pattonschad.com Open (District 9) Tim Anderson(District 10) Anderson Funeral Home Twin Valley, MN timanderson@arvig.net David Huso (District 11) Rowe Funeral Home Grand Rapids, MN husodavid@yahoo.com
Passare Announces New eSignatures Feature..............21 In Memorium..............................................................22-25 MFDA Career Center......................................................26 2020 MFDA Allied Members..........................................27
Upcoming Events Watch MFDA communications and website for information. 2021 MFDA Annual Convention Dates TBA
763-416-0124 612-940-8169 (cell) info@mnfuneral.org
amy@mnfuneral.org
Sue Sack (Accounting) sue@mnfuneral.org
Kathy Sheridan (Membership/Convention) kathy@mnfuneral.org
Miki Tufto (Communications/Convention) mtufto@mnfuneral.org
Who We Are: Minnesota Funeral Director’s Association (MFDA) is the statewide resource dedicated to supporting our member’s growth professionally, ethically, and operationally. What Is Our Mission: Our mission is to enhance and support funeral service excellence through our programs, legislative representation and service to Minnesotans. How We Accomplish This:
7046 East Fish Lake Road Maple Grove, MN 55311 p: (763) 416-0124 • f: (763) 416-0124 e: info@mnfuneral.org www.mnfuneral.org
• Essential and enduring principles that guide our organization’s behaviors and actions • Advancing the value of funeral service consistent with the changing needs of society • Advocacy on behalf of consumers and members • Visionary leadership trust and confidence in staff and volunteer leadership • Promotion of integrity; honest and ethical behavior within the funeral industry • Collaboration with others in the interest of consumers and members • Recognize the importance of education as a vehicle to enhance both public service and public image
The MFDA Bulletin is published quarterly for MDFA members. Copyright ©2020 MFDA Service Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without prior written permission of the publisher. Advertising opportunities are available by contacting MFDA to request an ad rate sheet. Please e-mail the ad to info@mnfuneral.org, fax or mail to the fax number or address listed above, along with the desired run time of your ad.
www.mnfuneral.org 3
Executive Director’s Report By Darlyne Erickson. CAE
Happy fall y’all! Congratulations! We made it through the summer in ways that we never thought possible! I know we have heard enough about COVID-19, politics and all that entails so I will not expound on those situations. The last time I wrote it was all about the Fatality Management Group that was really ahead of the game. Fortunately, some of the things that we were concerned did not come to pass, i.e. not enough body storage for a very high death rate. I know many of you, if not all, have had the experience of guiding a family through a death related to COVID. I am certain it adds another element, but bottom-line I know every death is individually important and you handle each situation with care and dignity. Families may take it for granted “because that is what funeral directors do”. But I know enough to understand how
hard you work to make the transition/ celebration special. I have heard many stories of just how individualized a funeral can be. A young man from northern Minnesota died unexpectedly and his family pondered on how to best celebrate his life. After sharing with the Funeral Director, it was decided to use the high school football field. The young man was 19 and had played ball there while in High School as recently as last year. Friends in the bleachers, family down on the field on the home team side, his casket was on the 50 yard line mid-way out in the field and full military honors in the center of the field, (he was in the National Guard) plus it was a beautiful day. I am sure there was laughter mixed with tears, but that family will always appreciate what the funeral director did by going that extra mile.
The MFDA Board held their August meeting in a virtual/in person format. We not only worked hard on our budget for 2021, we pared down the 2020 budget knowing that both our income as well as expense could be considerably less this year. I am happy to report that our bottom-line at the end of the year will be black…well maybe a bit gray, but still strong. All in all, MFDA is in a solid position, and we appreciate you, as members, for continuing to support the association. It has been 130 years and I think that says a lot. Thank you for your continued support! “Show me the manner in which a nation or a community cares for its dead and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender sympathies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land and their loyalty to high ideals.” - William E. Gladstone
“Show me the manner in which a nation or a community cares for its dead and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender sympathies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land and their loyalty to high ideals.” - William E. Gladstone
4 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
Legislative Update By Joe Sellwood, Cook Girard Associates
In the midst of our very unique 2020, the legislature continues to meet. In a normal election year, legislators would have adjourned in mid-May and returned to their districts to campaign. But like everything else this year, the legislature is operating under very different circumstances and much more often than normal. The reason for their frequent meetings, once each month for about a week at a time, is the extension of the peacetime emergency declaration called by Governor Walz. The peacetime emergency declaration is the mechanism for all of the Governor’s executive orders, the stay-at-home order, the mask mandate, the school operation models, and many other orders pertinent to funeral service. When the Governor extends the order every 30-days, he is
required by law to call the legislature into special session. This gives the legislature the opportunity to vote down the Governor’s extension, though this action requires both the House and Senate to vote down the measure. While initially supportive of the Governor’s peacetime emergency declaration, the Senate has voted down the extension during the past four special sessions, June, July, August and September. It is anticipated that the extensions and special sessions will continue throughout at least the remainder of 2020 – though many expect the peacetime emergency will remain in place well into 2021. The legislature has failed to come to an agreement on a bonding bill, one of the main issues they hoped to get done during the June, July, August, then September
Michael D. Sharkey, Esq., CFSP, CCO Chair, Mortuary Law Practice Group Attorney • Funeral Director
Attorney Sharkey provides advice, counsel and litigation services for funeral homes, cemeteries, and crematories.
952-525-6990 msharkey@cvmmlaw.com
special sessions. Legislators from both parties continue to discuss ways to get this done before the election. With the November election just around the corner, MFDA members can take opportunities to meet with candidates. When meeting a candidate, it’s important to introduce yourself and briefly educate them on what you do as a funeral director and the value you bring to the community you serve. There are also ways to support candidates, such as donating to their campaign, helping door knock, or putting a sign on your property. These individual relationships pay dividends at the capitol. As we continue to navigate through the uncharted territory of policy-making during a pandemic, we will keep MFDA apprised of executive orders, proposals at the legislature, and other issues of interest.
MFDA Legal Counsel Member Benefit In January 2020, MFDA retained Michael D. Sharkey, Licensed Funeral Director and Attorney with Cousineau, Van Bergen, McNee and Malone as its General Counsel. Mr. Sharkey’s role is to serve as a resource to the association as well as our member funeral directors as a new member benefit. Specifically, those firms who need mortuary law specific legal guidance, (often on short or even emergency notice) can spend up to 30 minutes getting answers they need. If a call will take more than 30 minutes of guidance, the member will be advised to retain Mr. Sharkey privately. Call 952-525-6990 to reach Mr. Sharkey’s office.
www.cvmmlaw.com
www.mnfuneral.org 5
Grief Camp During the Time of Corona By Alex Treitler, Children’s Grief Connection
Yes, there will be grief camp this fall! Saturday, November 7, Children’s Grief Connection will be gathering families grieving the death of a significant friend or family member for our fall Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp. With the generous support of MFDA, it’s what we’ve been doing for almost 20 years. But this year will be different, very different At 9 am that Saturday morning at Camp St. Croix in Hudson, we will be half our usual number. We will be wearing face masks and we will be physically distanced. As always, emotions will run high. There will be laughter and cheering and crying. At the end of it all, what was a collection of cautious strangers will have become an extended family.
It will be different, though, because we won’t be able to give each other hugs and high-fives. We won’t be able to crowd together in sharing circles or swing each other around during the first night’s raucous square dance. The concept will be familiar to a funeral director. How do you honor the dead and give space to mourning and comfort from six feet away and at 50% capacity? You have managed and we will too.
For all of us, staff and volunteers, running camp gives us joy and a strong sense of fulfillment. We know too that Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp changes lives. Whether or not you are a funeral director, I am certain that you know of someone or some family who has recently experienced the death of a loved one. Make sure they know about Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp. This year, more than ever, it is important that they go.
A cheer went up from our team of volunteers when we finally made the decision to hold an in-person one day camp. It isn’t easy. Creating a significant camp experience while staying safe involves a lot of work.
Remember: The camp is free, it changes lives; and for you as an MFDA member, Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp is YOUR camp.
But it is worth it. And we are doing it. This year’s Hearts of Hope will be a very special camp.
Alex Treitler Executive Director Children’s Grief Connection
Learn more and register at http:// childrensgriefconnection.com.
Donating to Children’s Grief Connection has never been easier! 1. Shop on Amazon at www.smile.amazon.com. 2. Designate Children’s Grief Connection as your beneficiary.
A portion of online purchase proceeds automatically go to Children’s Grief Connection!
Welcome to Our 2020-2021 MFDA President, Kelly J. Kelly Continued from cover… We have often times been a profession that has been overlooked, or maybe felt like we were in a thankless position. If anything good has come from this chaos, I would like to think families have had to lean on us a little harder for guidance and we have shown how we truly do have an extremely important role. What will we strive to accomplish as an association this next year in funeral service? Truth is, we don’t know what the next 3, 6, 9 months to a year are going to bring our way and most of us will be managing to go with the flow. I know our focus remains
6 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
on bringing help into our profession through reciprocity, and mentoring to reach others that may want to pursue this avenue. We, as an association will always encourage feedback and always welcome anyone that wants to be involved with the board or on any committees. I truly feel blessed to be a part of an elite group of individuals that sacrifice over and over for the greater good. Muhammed Ali probably said it best when he said, Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth. I would say we are all doing very well.
Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp
CONNECTING GRIEVING FAMILIES WITH HOPE
Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp is a free program that brings hope and healing to families grieving the death of a loved one.
A ON E D AY CAMP N OVE MB ER 7T H Children's Grief Connection's Fall Camp will be held at the YMCA Camp St. Croix in Hudson, WI. More information regarding camp, our COVID practices or to register for camp Check out our website!
childrensgriefconnection.com
www.mnfuneral.org 7
U of M Mortuary Science Update By Michael LuBrant, Program Director
Dear Colleagues, Greetings from the Program of Mortuary Science at the University of Minnesota! We hope that this message finds you and your families safe and doing well. As I am sure you can imagine, the pandemic has impacted the lives of our students, faculty, and staff in many different ways. And yet despite the challenges that have come our way as a result of COVID, I am pleased to let you know that our program remains strong, even during these difficult times.
Enrollment I am very excited to share with you that our enrollment has increased significantly from trends we observed over the past several years. This year, 36 new students entered the program. Our total enrollment is now approximately 60 students. We believe that a number of policy changes we implemented over the past year, including now offering Spring Semester admission, have helped us to increase our numbers. Very high job placements rates for our graduates are also seen as contributing to an increase in enrollment trends. We are encouraged by the strong interest in our program and continue to work hard with fellow funeral directors to recruit the very brightest and best students into our profession.
Faculty This fall we welcomed several new instructors to the Program. Louise Wojchik is now teaching our human anatomy lab coursework. A 2012 graduate of our program, Louise is a licensed mortician with extensive experience in funeral directing, embalming, and restorative art.
8 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
For the past several years Louise has worked “next door” at M-Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center in the autopsy suite. At M-Health Fairview, her work involves overseeing decedent affairs and teaching medical school students who observe her perform autopsies during their rotations.
I am very excited to be teaching embalming and restorative art theory this semester, and continue to serve as director of our clinical rotation program.
Louise also continues to support funeral homes with difficult case embalming and restorative art work.
Teaching Modalities
Lynne Schriver-Sheedy and Patrick Sheedy: The daughter of a funeral director and program alumnus, Lynne graduated from our program in 2000; she is a licensed mortician and has worked with our students as a preceptor for the past 20 years. Lynne has extensive experience making funeral arrangements and conducting funeral services. Lynne’s husband Pat holds both a Ph.D. degree in religion from Marquette University, and also a JD (law) degree. Pat has extensive knowledge of religious traditions and has taught at several colleges and universities. Lynne and Pat will be co-teaching our Death and Dying Across Cultures and Religions course this year, as Rev. Gloria Roach Thomas has taken leave for health reasons. Michael Mathews continues in his 44th year with the program teaching coursework in the sciences, mortuary rules and regulations, and funeral practice. Also continuing in their work with us: Judge Douglas Meslow is teaching business and mortuary law, and Carrie McGhee serves as our instructor for our business and funeral arrangements coursework. Carrie is also assisting me with the operation of our clinical rotation program. In support of on-campus clinical instruction, Tim Tarmann is teaching our embalming and restorative art labs.
For more information about all our faculty, please visit: https://med.umn. edu/mortuaryscience/faculty
As many of you may know, as a result of COVID much of our teaching work is being conducted via distance education at this time. We are grateful to have access to technology including Zoom, Canvas, and other software that allows us to teach remotely. Given the importance of “hands on” learning activities, we continue to teach embalming, restorative art, and human anatomy labs on campus. Likewise, we have received permission to run our clinical education coursework at funeral homes, and have several students out on rotation at this time. Our faculty, staff, and students have all been working together closely to ensure that our learning this fall will be a positive experience for everyone.
Student Financial Aid – National Board Exam (NBE) Scholarships As you are probably aware, each year I write our friends and alumni asking for their financial support of our program. As you can understand, COVID has placed incredible financial stress upon our students and their families. For many students, this year there were unexpected financial barriers in coming up with funds to pay for the NBE, which as you know is required for licensure. In discussing with students how we could help them, I was asked if there might be a way of supporting the $570 cost of the NBE. In consultation with students,
In spite of the challenges brought forth by COVID, we here in the mortuary science program remain strong and steadfast in our mission to provide the very best funeral service education possible to our students.
faculty, staff, the Medical School Dean’s Office, and the University of Minnesota Foundation, I am very pleased to share with you that this year we were able to fund the entire cost of the NBE for each one of our graduating students. We see this investment – which was in excess of $10,000 and paid for entirely with financial gifts to our program – as being the best way we could help students transition from their status as a graduate to an intern during these challenging times. Soon I will be once again writing for your financial support. I ask that you please give generously so that we may continue to help students achieve their goal of becoming a funeral director, in support of our profession and the families whom we serve.
Kudos to Ashley Mishek I would like to take a moment to offer a special “thank you” to Ashley Mishek, our office manager and student services professional, for all she has done to help our program grow and remain strong as we face challenges posed by COVID.
(Note: there will be discussion of our Continuing Education outreach efforts in my next update article). Thank you to each one of you for all you do to help us achieve this vision! In closing, please know that I will miss seeing you “in person” at those recurring annual events where we would normally share time together during the fall months – mainly the MFDA District Meetings, and the NFDA Convention. I look forward with a sense of optimism to the days when we will once again be able to be with one another. Let us hope these days are soon. In the meantime, please be well, remain safe, and never hesitate to contact us if we can be of any help to you. Go Gophers! Sincerely, Michael LuBrant, Program Director
Over the past several months, Ashley has worked tirelessly (remotely, from home, with two little ones!) to develop uniform Canvas (i.e., course management) websites for each of our classes. She has helped onboard all our new instructors and has taught them how to use technology to teach remotely. Ashley also created a standardized course syllabus template for all our classes, and has expanded and integrated systems for doing work with greater accuracy, efficiency, and simplicity. In addition to this work, Ashley also serves as the primary academic adviser to all our students, responds to our email and telephone inquiries, handles ordering, maintains our website, and the list goes on… (and on!) In sum, Ashley is highly dedicated to our program and all the stakeholders we serve, and without exception ensures that our office operates in a professional, productive manner at all times. Next time you have need to write or call our office, please offer Ashley your greeting and extend to her a word of thanks for all she does for mortuary science. Her hard work, professionalism, and dedication to our program, students, and faculty has been incredibly helpful for the goal of advancing our profession.
Closing Thoughts In spite of the challenges brought forth by COVID, we here in the mortuary science program remain strong and steadfast in our mission to provide the very best funeral service education possible to our students. We are also committed to our service mission of supporting funeral directors as they actively work to serve grieving families.
www.mnfuneral.org 9
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Guidance for Gatherings: Faith-based Communities, Places of Worship, and Ceremonies Latest updates: Added links to additional guidance around music activities and event photography. This guidance is for planning or hosting in-person services and ceremonies in faith-based communities, places of worship, funeral homes, and other venues that may offer gathering space for weddings, funerals, worship services, rituals, prayer meetings, scripture studies, or similar activities. For receptions and other gatherings before or after the ceremony, see the Guidance for Safe Celebrations and Events (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/safeevents.pdf). Large gatherings continue to present significant risk for increasing the spread of COVID-19. All faith communities are encouraged to provide remote services and choose not to open or host large gatherings. If there is evidence of COVID-19 spread within your faith community, you may be advised to stop offering in-person services until it is safe to return. Contact your local or state health department for further guidance in these situations. This guidance is based on space size, predictability and flow of movement, duration of time in designated shared space, and the potential spread of COVID-19 at large gatherings, even when precautions are taken.
Requirements Preparedness Plan: All businesses, organizations, and venues where gatherings take place are required to develop and implement an event specific COVID-19 Preparedness Plan in accordance with the guidance below, and other applicable guidance on the Stay Safe Minnesota website (staysafe.mn.gov). This plan must be displayed prominently, so any persons on the premises can easily see this document. Vendors servicing one event may collectively agree to one comprehensive plan, if they so choose. Masks and face coverings: As of July 25, 2020, people in Minnesota are required to wear a face covering in all indoor businesses and public indoor spaces, per Executive Order 20-81. Additionally, the Executive Order requires workers to wear a face covering when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. The Executive Order includes exemptions for people who are unable to wear or tolerate a face covering due to medical or mental health conditions or 1 of 5 10 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
GUIDANCE FOR GATHERINGS: FAITH-BASED COMMUNITIES, PLACES OF WORSHIP, AND CEREMONIES
other reasons. There are also situations in which a face covering may be temporarily removed, such as when eating or drinking, provided that social distancing is maintained between members of different parties and the face covering is put back on when not eating or drinking. Businesses and venues may choose to have more protective requirements than those in the Executive Order. For more information about the Executive Order and face covering requirements, see Masks and Face Coverings (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/prevention.html#masks).
Gatherings in a place of worship or ceremonies such as a funeral or wedding
Occupancy must be reduced to allow for the required social distancing of at least 6 feet between people who do not live in the same household. For indoor worship settings, occupancy must not exceed 50% of total capacity, with a maximum of 250 people in a single self-contained space. In outdoor settings, gatherings must not exceed 250 people.
Provide controlled flow of participants as much as possible, including upon start and at end of the event.
Limit the number of speakers to the smallest number possible and make arrangements so that they avoid close contact (e.g., within 6 feet) with others. Whenever possible, provide individual microphones for multiple speakers. If a microphone must be shared, consider cleaning between speakers or leaving it untouched on a stand.
See the next section for more details and refer to Stay Safe Guidance (staysafe.mn.gov/industryguidance/index.jsp) for complete guidance for Places of Worship Entities and other applicable industry guidance.
Gatherings for ceremonies or socializing in homes or private settings Limit to 10 people or less indoors, 25 people or less outdoors.
Gatherings for receptions and other activities before and after ceremonies Gatherings taking place in indoor and outdoor venues such as event centers, faith-based buildings, community centers, rental halls, or at similar outdoor spaces and that are providing food and beverages for on-site consumption have a limit of indoor and outdoor occupant capacity of 25% up to 250 persons. A responsible party must be assigned to develop and implement a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. See the Guidance for Safe Celebrations and Events (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/safeevents.pdf) for more information.
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GUIDANCE FOR GATHERINGS: FAITH-BASED COMMUNITIES, PLACES OF WORSHIP, AND CEREMONIES
For leaders, staff, and volunteers Designate one person from your leadership team or staff to prepare the Plan and ensure that it is understood, publicly posted, and followed by everyone. The Plan must include procedures and instructions on how you will address the following: 1. Ensure that sick staff stay home. Staff at higher risk are encouraged to work from home. 2. Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet between staff and mandate face coverings as required by the Executive Order. 3. Practice good hygiene: cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, wear face coverings or masks. 4. Ensure building safety and proper ventilation protocols. 5. Ensure safe practices and protocols for drop-off, pick-up, and deliveries. 6. Create and follow work and gathering space cleaning and disinfection protocols. Refer to CDC: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Home (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-gettingsick/disinfecting-your-home.html). 7. Communicate and train all staff on these practices and protocols. 8. Ensure that all activities held in your building(s) follow your practices and protocols (support or community groups, distribution of essential items, etc.). 9. Communicate the steps being taken and the changes to services to all members and participants in order to participate safely and minimize the possible spread of COVID-19. 10. Ensure that you have enough cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, and tissues. Post signs and instructions to: stay home if you are sick or at high risk, wash hands, cover your cough, wear a facemask, and keep the required 6 feet of social distance. Signage for printing is available on the MDH Materials and Resources for COVID-19 Response page (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/materials/index.html). For detailed guidance about building usage and ventilation information, including how to get your building ready to be used after extended closure, drop-off, pick-up, and delivery practices and protocols, cleaning and disinfection protocols, and more, see the Operational Guidance for Places of Worship (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/places-of-worship.jsp).
Recommendations for faith community members and participants Before the service or ceremony
Stay home if you or anyone in your household is sick or has symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell.
Persons who are at higher risk for severe illness (elderly or underlying health conditions) are strongly encouraged to stay home.
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GUIDANCE FOR GATHERINGS: FAITH-BASED COMMUNITIES, PLACES OF WORSHIP, AND CEREMONIES
Participants should understand and agree to follow the COVID-19 Preparedness Plans for the facilities where the service or ceremony will take place.
During the service or ceremony
Regularly wash or sanitize hands, cover coughs and sneezes, and wear a face covering.
Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet between people from different households at all times (entering, exiting, sitting, and any activities during the service).
Singing/chanting is a higher risk activity, so congregations are strongly encouraged to have prerecorded music/chants or listen to a cantor who maintains distance from other cantors and participants during the service. See also: Music Activities and Performances During COVID-19 (www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/musicguide.pdf).
Avoid touching items often touched by others if possible. Sanitize high-touch items between shared users and between services.
Adapt all practices during the services to avoid close contact and maintain social distancing (greetings, collections, sharing of ceremonial objects, communion, etc.).
For prayer that involves close facial contact to the floor or carpet, bring your own rug, or use a paper covering for one-time use and then disposal.
Event photography: Standing close together is a high-risk activity, even when it is a shorter period of time. Consider taking individual photos and using editing software to combine them into a group photo. See additional recommendations in the Industry Guidance for Safely Reopening Faith-based Communities, Places of Worship, Weddings, and Funerals (www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/safefaith.pdf).
If there is evidence of COVID-19 spread associated with your faith community, you may be advised by your local or state health department to cancel or postpone in-person services until it is safe to return. For detailed information, see the Operational Guidance for Places of Worship (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/places-of-worship.jsp).
Resources From the State of Minnesota:
Industry Guidance for Safely Reopening Faith-based Communities, Places of Worship, Weddings, and Funerals (www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/safefaith.pdf)
Community Settings: COVID-19 (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/communities.html)
Guidance for Vehicle Gatherings, Parades, and Drive-ins (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/vehiclegather.pdf)
Guidance for Caring for People in Their Homes (health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/visitingathome.pdf) 4 of 5
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GUIDANCE FOR GATHERINGS: FAITH-BASED COMMUNITIES, PLACES OF WORSHIP, AND CEREMONIES
Operational Guidance for Places of Worship (staysafe.mn.gov/industry-guidance/places-ofworship.jsp)
Stay Safe Guidance for Businesses and Organizations (staysafe.mn.gov/industryguidance/index.jsp)
From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
Community and Faith-Based Organizations (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/community/organizations/index.html)
Considerations for Communities of Faith (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/community/organizations/checklist.html)
Gatherings and Community Events (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/largeevents/index.html)
Funeral Guidance for Individuals and Families (cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-lifecoping/funeral-guidance.html)
Minnesota Department of Health | health.mn.gov | 651-201-5000 625 Robert Street North PO Box 64975, St. Paul, MN 55164-0975 Contact health.communications@state.mn.us to request an alternate format. 09/18/2020
14 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
Like you’re there for your families, we’re there for you! Like you’re there for your families, we’re there for you.
We’re Proud To Support Minnesota Funeral Homes! TM
Plus many other local initiatives including those supported by, the MFDA Leadership Academy, the Children’s Grief Connection, and the University of MN Mortuary Science Program.
As a Minnesota based company, Kelco® is there to support you and offer a wide range of products you need to operate your funeral home. Many of these products are produced right here in our great state! Support your local supplier - Buy From Kelco®!
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800-328-7720 • KelcoSupply.com • KelcoUrns.com
2021 MFDA BULLETIN ADVERTISING RATES Bulletin is published quarterly by Minnesota Funeral Directors Association. It mails directly to all MFDA members and is also available online for viewing. This publication features topics relevant to the funeral industry and is a great way to reach Minnesota funeral directors and staff. STYLE
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www.mnfuneral.org 15
NFDA Recognizes Funeral Homes for Excellence in Service to Families and Communities By NFDA
The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) is pleased to announce that 141 funeral homes have earned a 2020 Pursuit of Excellence Award. This award is presented by NFDA annually to firms that have demonstrated a commitment to raising the bar on funeral service excellence by adhering to strict ethical and professional standards and providing outstanding service to families and communities. “This has been a challenging year for funeral homes,” said NFDA Director of Public Relations Jessica Koth, who manages the Pursuit of Excellence Award program. “The Pursuit of Excellence Work Group was very impressed with the quality of this year’s entries and all that funeral homes have been able to accomplish during the pandemic. The funeral homes that NFDA is recognizing with the Pursuit of Excellence Award have truly earned it this year.” To earn an NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award, a funeral home must demonstrate proficiency in key areas of funeral service, including compliance with state and federal regulations; staff participation in ongoing education and professional development; offering outstanding programs and resources to bereaved families; maintaining an active level of involvement in the community; active participation in and service to the funeral service profession; and promoting funeral home services through a variety of marketing, advertising and public relations programs. Participants are also required to adhere to a Pledge of Ethical Practices. Information about the NFDA Pursuit of Excellence program can be found by visiting www.nfda.org/pursuitofexcellence. Registration and application materials for 2021 will be available in late-October 2020.
Best of the Best Award Recipients All Pursuit of Excellence applicants submitted an essay describing the development and execution of a program or service that had a positive impact on the families they serve or their community, qualifying them for the Best of the Best Award, which recognizes the most novel and innovative programs and services in the profession. Essays were judged on the uniqueness of the idea on a national and international level, quality of implementation, benefit to those served, benefit to the funeral home and how easily the idea could be replicated or modified by another funeral home. After a thorough review, the Pursuit of Excellence Task Force selected seven funeral homes to receive the Best of the Best Award. • Arlington
Memorial Chapels, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
• Funeraria
San Vicente S.A., Medellin, Colombia
• Gardinier
Funeral Home, Inc., Franklin, Penn.
• Lakeside
Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., West Seneca, N.Y.
• Macz
Funeral Homes, Centralia, Ill.
• Morrissett
Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chesterfield, Va.
2020 NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award Recipients Minnesota Funeral Homes • Anderson
Funeral Home and Crematory, Alexandria, Minn.
• Dobratz-Hantge
Funeral Chapel, Hutchinson, Minn.**
• Johnson-Hagglund
Funeral and Cremation Service, Litchfield, Minn.**
• Johnson-McBride
Glencoe, Minn.
Funeral Chapel,
• Joseph
Vertin and Sons Funeral Home, Breckenridge, Minn.**
• Pedersen
Funeral Home, Morris, Minn.**
• Worlein
Funeral Home, Austin, Minn.**
MFDA Members on Bold *First-time award recipient **Previously inducted into the NFDA Hall of Excellence
View full list at www.nfda.org/ pursuitofexcellence
• Worlein
Funeral Home, Austin, Minn.
Congratulations to all MFDA members who’ve won NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Awards! 16 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
Q: School is Open – Opt to Stay Home on FFCRA Leave?
Does an employee, who has opted to stay home with her school aged child, who chose to virtually learn, when the school is open, and the other 2 children are in school, still qualify for extended leave under the Emergency Families First Coronavirus Response Act?
A: The Department of Labor recently
addressed this very issue in an update of its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) online resource. Prior to this time there had been no direct guidance and employers were left with ambiguity. It is now quite clear, as follows: “FAQ 99: My child’s school is giving me a choice between having my child attend in person or participate in a remote learning program for the fall. I signed up for the remote learning alternative because, for example, I worry that my child might contract COVID-19 and bring it home to the family. Since my child will be at home, may I take paid leave under the FFCRA in these circumstances?” (added 08/27/2020) No, you are not eligible to take paid leave under the FFCRA because your child’s school is not ‘closed’ due to COVID–19 related reasons; it is open for your child to attend. FFCRA leave is not available to take care of a child whose school is open for in-person attendance. If your child is home not because his or her school
is closed, but because you have chosen for the child to remain home, you are not entitled to FFCRA paid leave. However, if, because of COVID-19, your child is under a quarantine order or has been advised by a health care provider to self isolate or self-quarantine, you may be eligible to take paid leave to care for him or her. See FAQ 63. Also, as explained more fully in FAQ 98, if your child’s school is operating on an alternate day (or other hybrid attendance) basis, you may be eligible to take paid leave under the FFCRA on each of your child’s remote-learning days because the school is effectively ‘closed’ to your child on those days.” Please see Families First Coronavirus Response Act: Questions and Answers for the full FAQ resource, which contains the FAQs referenced above. Unless one of the stated exceptions exists as referenced above, an employee who elects a remote learning option for his/her child(ren) when the school is otherwise open is not eligible for the statutory protection under the federal
Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Time off requests associated with this type of childcare can and should be addressed in a manner consistent with employer policy and past practice, barring any contractual provisions that otherwise govern the issue. Additional guidance on the FFCRA can be found on our website or at COVID-19 and the American Workplace which also includes a link to the requisite poster. Please note that this law is scheduled to sunset on 12/31/2020. The Question of the Month is provided by Enquiron, a company wholly independent from Federated Insurance. Federated provides its clients access to this information through the Federated Employment Practices Network with the understanding that neither Federated nor its employees provide legal or employment advice. As such, Federated does not warrant the accuracy, adequacy, or completeness of the information herein. This information may be subject to restrictions and regulation in your state. Consult with your own qualified legal counsel regarding your specific facts and circumstances.
Want to renew your MFDA membership online?
Visit www.mnfuneral.org and sign-in to your MFDA members-only account. Need your log-in info? Call Miki at 763-416-0124 or email mtufto@mnfuneral.org
www.mnfuneral.org 17
FFCRA – Employer Posting Requirements President Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) on March 18, 2020. It is an economic stimulus plan aimed at addressing the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on Americans and introducing paid sick leave and an expanded family and medical leave act to the nation’s employers. The leave provisions went into effect on April 1, 2020. Did you know, each covered employer - generally, any business with fewer than 500 employees - must post a notice of the FFCRA requirements in a conspicuous place on its premises. An employer may satisfy this requirement by emailing or direct mailing this notice to employees or posting this notice on an employee information internal or external website through December 31, 2020 (unless extended by the federal government). Learn more about employer requirements of the FFCRA from SESCO Management Consultants, an NFDA Endorsed Provider at https:// sescomgt.com/resources/staff-recommendations/essentials-of-thefamilies-first-coronavirus-response-act/202003251748427173 Download free copies of the required FFCRA poster from the Department of Labor, https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/posters
Funeral Home Opportunity in Northeast Minnesota
Johnson Consulting Group is pleased to offer an established funeral home operation located in northeast Minnesota. The business includes one full service funeral home facility and offsite crematory generating approximately $1,160,000 in total revenues. The funeral business has performed on average approximately 140-160 calls per year. Both buildings would be included in a transaction and have an estimated value of $1,225,000. The PreNeed backlog is approximately $2,400,000. For more information, please contact Karen McCurdy at 480/556-8519 or via email at kmccurdy@johnsonconsulting.com.
18 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
Funeral Chapel in Northwest Minnesota For Sale Small Funeral Chapel in NW Minnesota for sale. Located in Greenbush, MN 42 miles from Lake of the Woods. Started in 1975 and owned by us since 1984. Details and photos are available at www.riverblue.com/gieseke. Owner/director died in June. Great opportunity for someone starting out. Our house also for sale next door.
Log on to renew your MFDA membership online!
Visit www.mnfuneral.org and sign-in to your MFDA members-only account. Need your log-in info? Call Miki at 763-416-0124 or email mtufto@mnfuneral.org
LifeSource Update By Kelley Romanowski and Melinda Van Waus, LifeSource Monday, September 21, 2020 was the 25th Anniversary of the LifeSource Golf Classic (LSGC) at Majestic Oaks Golf Club. The LSGC began in honor of Terri Opp - a young woman who died while waiting for the lifesaving gift of a heart transplant, and numerous others who also died awaiting their lifesaving gifts of organ transplants. Proceeds from this event are dedicated to increase community education on the importance of checking the box and supporting donor families who lost their loved ones much too soon. LifeSource is extremely grateful to Dodge for being a sponsor at this event. It was a beautiful day to see some familiar funeral director faces out on the
course (Lincoln Plain, Rob Hunt, Jr., Brian Dingmann and Greg Wenner). Thank you Dodge for supporting donation in this unique way that raises awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation. Dodge has been an industry leader in supplying products to funeral homes for donor embalmings and restorations. Aaron and Caitlin Stromberg had a strong foursome out on the greens as well. As the owners of Twin Cities Trade Service, they have been LifeSource’s primary transportation partner. TCTS has been supportive of our mission of saving lives and offering hope and healing from day one. We are grateful to have them as a partner! Aaron and Caitlin have had a team for the LifeSource Golf Classic
every year. Thank you TCTS for evolving with LifeSource No one won a car this year, but everyone walked away with fond memories, a little swag, and a deeper appreciation of celebrating life! Thank you to our funeral director colleagues, for supporting families who make the choice to honor their loved one through donation. We are extremely grateful for your partnership and look forward to seeing you on the fairway next year! Save the date next year September 20, 2021!
Thank you to our funeral director colleagues, for supporting families who make the choice to honor their loved one through donation. www.mnfuneral.org 19
Book Review: “Lost Companions: Reflections on the Death of Pets” by Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson Review by Terri Schlichenmeyer, The Bookworm Sez, LLC
“a deep and ancient longing” to be with one another. Such a thing “delights” Masson, perhaps because he’s had animal companions his entire life.
Yes, it’s about losing a pet, and the emotions you inevitably feel about it. But author Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson also delves deeply into the deaths of wildlife, livestock, and humans, which are not at The problem, as all animal lovers know, is all the only off-topic topics. He also writes that pets don’t live as long as people do. particularly gruesomely about dog-meat We know, the moment we get a new markets, and he touches upon veganism, fluff, that we’re going to grieve that pet and “companion” versus “owner.” To n shown here is for E&M accounting records only. It may not be what appears in the publication. someday; just thinking about it is a grief continue, the tedious, already-hashedssociation directly to confirm the accuracy of your company business information. all on its own. Masson believes that over subject of whether or not pets love 1107 Suite #350 • Chaska, MN 55318 animals are also aware of theirHazeltine mortality, Blvd, r us is brought forth again, and Masson MAS Communications but we can’t get inside their minds argues strongly against The 1-800-572-00 Final Kindess, Mary Reeves Fax: 1-952-448-9928 / Phone: to know what they think about it and saying he can’t imagine it, but admitting 465 Poplar St. within business days perhaps euthanasia isPlease utilized too respond hastily. that he’s never5 witnessed it. Mankato, MN 56001 When a pet dies, “weByare simply notI (advertising And signing below, company) am (heavy approvingsigh). my ad as is or with changes and I repres yet.... 507-387-6543 thiswant advertisement placed with all content, text, images, pictures and/or logos do not infringe on prepared for this.... we our beloved If you’ve ever a pet,property, you know copyright,We trademark, rights of literary property, andlost intellectual nor doyou they violate the rights 507-345-3816 companions to live longer.” may be other persons. I agree to indemnify andtohold harmless E&M Consulting, Inc. against need read this book, the on-point of any claims, jud surprised at the depth of the raw emotion marypreeves@mascommunications.net attorney’s fees and other expenses arising from any alleged or actual breach of this warranty. which arrives with fewer than 100 pages we feel; Masson quotes (and marvels The bowl has been washed, and 1/4food Page to go. You know you’ve been there, at) several people who say they *Colors in the grieved ad are for representational purposes only and will be brighter and more exact in th tucked away safe in a high cabinet. Full Color you be because there again, andare that and photos shown in theand ad are notmight exact, only our printers limited and once pr harder at the loss of aartwork pet than they did No one asks you to roll a ball down the maybe, possibly, there’s another way to be much improved. PAST for a human. We should, therefore, never hallway anymore. The squeak of soft ease your grief, some way you haven’t yet “belittle the grief of others” when it toys no longer interrupt your TV shows encountered. It might be here. It might. comes to pets, which includes when our these days; in fact, it’s too quiet now pets exhibit grief – and they do. Indeed. and you hate it. Even worse, there’s a Says Masson, “You could say grieving This is a three-tissue book but Masson reason why these things are so, and in makes us human, or you could also say, gives you room: it’s not a cry-fest until “Lost Companions” by Jeffrey Moussaieff grieving makes us just another animal.” quite a ways in. Keep that in mind, and Masson, you’ll read thoughts on the loss have your tear-wipes nearby: if you’ve of your pet. It’s awfully hard to determine the exact recently lost a furry loved one, “Lost point of “Lost Companions.” What a “miracle” it is that we have pets: Companions” may bowl you over. here we are, different species that feel
19 Minnesota Funeral Directors Association Membership Directo
Sign & Return Proof To: E&M Consulti
20 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
Passare® Announces New eSignatures Feature Passare, Inc. is excited to announce the arrival of eSignatures, an online signature solution for funeral homes. The tool allows funeral professionals to select multiple forms that need signatures and send each form to the appropriate signer, all with one click. “eSignatures is a much-anticipated feature that we are excited to offer to our clients at this crucial time,” said Josh McQueen, Vice President of Product at Passare. “With many families wanting to work with funeral homes remotely due to the pandemic or simply being out of town, we wanted to provide our users with a simple online signature solution that was easy for both funeral professionals and the families they serve. I believe we achieved that with eSignatures.” Rather than use a third-party signature software that requires forms to be set up, downloaded and re-uploaded into a funeral home’s case management software, Passare offers a seamless, builtin signature option. With eSignatures, the funeral home’s most commonly used forms are already set up for signatures, making it easy to begin using the feature right away. Once the forms are signed,
they are automatically added to the case, so they can always be easily accessed when needed. “To get signatures, all you need to do is select the forms you want signed, choose who you will send each form to, and then hit send,” said McQueen. “Then, the family will simply click to add their signature. There’s no need for the family to print, sign, scan, and email a document. There’s no need to download and upload forms on the funeral home’s end. It’s so simple.” Passare has also built a robust notification system that will keep everyone in the loop on signed forms. With text and email notifications, the right people will be notified of a signature every time a form is signed. Extra security measures will ensure that the funeral home’s important documents are protected. “eSignatures is safe and secure because it is login and password protected and accessible only from the Passare platform,” McQueen continued. “Ultimately, we hope this new feature reduces stress that often comes when gathering signatures remotely.”
Contact your Passare support team at 800-692-5111 or email support@passare. com to learn more about this feature. For more information about Passare’s cloud-based collaboration software with built-in business management tools, go to www.passare.com to request a demo. ABOUT PASSARE: One of the greatest challenges in the funeral profession today is communication with today’s tech-savvy families and access to accurate, timely information when and where you need it. To meet this need, Passare offers the funeral profession’s only funeral home collaboration software with integrated business management tools. Through Passare, funeral directors can connect and communicate with families and access case information anytime, anywhere, using any internet-connected device. Offering unlimited users, devices, and updates, Passare is helping funeral staff to streamline processes, save time, and spend more quality time with the families they serve and with their own families at home.
www.mnfuneral.org 21
IN MEMORIAM MFDA Past President Glenn Thomas Hansen, 81, Duluth, formerly of Moose Lake and Two Harbors, died peacefully on Monday, June 8, 2020 at his home with his family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 6, 1939 in Minneapolis to Conrad and Esther Hansen. He lived in Minneapolis until the age of 14 when his family moved to Two Harbors. Glenn attended Two Harbors High School graduating in 1957 and later entered the United State Navy, serving for two years. On June 25, 1960, Glenn married Carole Sarff in Minneapolis. Glenn attended the University of Minnesota graduating in 1963. Glenn started his career at Simonet Funeral Home in Stillwater for a short time before moving to Moose Lake in 1964 and began working for Wes & Gen Hamlin at Hamlin Funeral Home. In 1976, Glenn and Carole purchased the funeral home and incorporated their name on the business. In 1998, they sold HamlinHansen Funeral Home to Mike Kosloski. They had lived by Gooseberry Falls on Lake Superior since 1993 and later moved to Duluth in 2006. Glenn had served as Minnesota Funeral Directors Association President from 1977-1978. He was also a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Moose Lake where he served as President of the Congregation, Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Castle Danger, Family of God Lutheran Church in Duluth, Sons of Norway, and the Moose Lake Chamber where he was recognized as Grand Marshall for the Fourth of July Parade. Glenn loved the game of hockey and was active in the Moose Lake Hockey Program and a very proud UMD Fan and season ticket holder. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, wood carving, playing cards, driving his Corvette in parades, and sharing his great sense of humor. Glenn was a proud Norwegian and in 1994 began researching his genealogy and contacting relatives in Norway and Carole’s relatives in Sweden. They made several trips over to Norway and Sweden and became very close to their relatives through the years. Glenn was preceded in death by his wife, Carole; parents: Conrad and Esther
22 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
Hansen; and three brothers: Douglas, James, and Conrad. He will be lovingly remembered by his two sons: Mark Hansen of Moose Lake and Greg (Becky) Hansen of Duluth; his grandchildren whom he adored: Ashley (Erik) Cooper; Megan Hansen, Keely Hansen, and Thomas Hansen. Visitation was held June 11, 2020 in Hamlin-Hansen-Kosloski Funeral Home, Moose Lake and continue June 12 at Hope Lutheran Church, Moose Lake. Burial was held June 12 in Diamond Lake Cemetery, Aitkin, MN. To sign the guestbook online or to send a personal tribute video via SendHugs, go to www. hhkfuneralhome.com. Memorials are preferred to the charity of your choice in Glenn’s memory. Blessed be the memory of Glenn Thomas Hansen. Arrangements by HamlinHansen-Kosloski Funeral Home, Moose Lake. Ernest John Gieseke, Minnesota funeral director and owner of Gieseke Funeral Home, was born April 28, 1950 to Herbert H. Gieseke and May Christine (Eidem) Gieseke. He was baptized and confirmed at Zoar Lutheran Church. He grew up at Marietta, MN and graduated Class of 1968 from Marietta High School. He worked at the Marietta Orpheum Theater, the local grain elevator, and for local farmers. Ernie went on to the Willmar State Junior College graduating in 1970 with as A.S. degree and worked summers putting up grain bins. He moved to Minneapolis where he worked for Sundseth-Anderson Funeral Home while finishing his education. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1972 with a B.S. degree in Mortuary Science. He served his Practicum at Albin Chapel in Minneapolis and his apprenticeship at Sundseth-Anderson’s working there until 1975. In 1974 he married Linda Glee Dahle in Milbank, South Dakota. They moved to Detroit Lakes in 1975 where he worked at Donehower Funeral Home. They had a daughter, Christine in 1977 and a son, Andrew in 1980. He purchased
Donehower’s with a partner in 1981, but sold his interest in 1984. He and Linda purchased the Eeg Funeral Chapel and Cedar Chest Floral and Gifts in Greenbush, Minnesota and moved their young family there. They owned Gieseke Funeral Chapel, Floral and Gifts and also Gieseke Trophies. Ernie was baptized, confirmed, and married in the Lutheran Church attending Bethel Lutheran in Greenbush. He belonged to Lions clubs since 1970 and was a charter member of the Greenbush-Badger Lions Club serving as their secretary and treasurer for many years. He was recognized with the Melvin Jones Award (highest Lions award) in 2008. He held a funeral license in Minnesota since 1972 and in ND since 1982. He was a member of the Minnesota and ND Funeral Directors Association and secretary-treasurer for many years for District 10. He also earned the designation of Certified Funeral Service Practitioner for his years of community and professional service. Ernie loved his work and sharing it with his wife. He was very dedicated to his profession and the many families he served. He was very proud of his children and their accomplishments. He enjoyed his grandchildren and visited them when he could. He loved listening to polka music and watching NASCAR races. He had many bird feeders and enjoyed sitting on the back porch watching them. He loved long drives in the country, seeing the changes in the seasons and spotting animals and birds. He is survived by his wife and partner of over 45 years, Linda; One Son Andrew (Jessica) Gieseke of Chaska, Minnesota; two grandsons, Levi Gieseke and Cole Gieseke also of Chaska; one sister Betty Gieseke of Sierra Vista, Arizona; 2 brothers-in-law: Allen (Patricia) Dahle of Watertown, South Dakota and Collis (Brenda) Dahle of Milbank, SD; 4 sistersin-law: Rita (David) Wellnitz of Milbank, South Dakota, Nancy (Jim) Weber of Revillo, SD, Julie (Randy) Kruse of Revillo, SD, and Karen (Lloyd) Tillma of Twin Brooks, SD; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Christine in 2012. Funeral services were held June 12, 2020 at Bethel Lutheran Church, Greenbush.
Interment will be in Bethel Lutheran Cemetery, Greenbush. The service was streamed on the Bethel Lutheran ChurchGreenbush Facebook page. Visitation was held at the church on June 11. Gieseke Funeral Chapel, Greenbush. Joyce Thulin Holm, former owner of Holm Funeral Home, age 89, of Luverne, died Saturday, June 13, 2020. She was born January 17, 1931, in Litchfield to Bert Thulin and Josephine (Nelson) Thulin. She graduated from Litchfield High School, earned her Nursing degree in 1954 from the University of Minnesota and later went on to earn her Masters degree in Public Health, also from the University of Minnesota. Joyce began her career as a nurse in Luverne in 1956 for Dr. Boone. She later worked as the school nurse for the Pipestone School District and then the Nobles-Rock County Public Health Nursing Service. She was an assistant professor of nursing at Brookings, then at Quincy Illinois, and then at Southwest State in Marshall. Joyce retired in 1993 after serving residents of southwest Minnesota working in Public Health Nursing and Services for Children with Handicaps with the Minnesota Department of Health. Joyce and Charles Peter (Cub) Holm were married on June 26, 1954 at the First Lutheran Church in Grove City. They moved to Luverne in 1956 after Cub’s discharge from the army and operated Holm Funeral Home. Upon retirement, Joyce and Cub moved to Green Lake in Spicer, and then to Tucson. Joyce returned to Luverne in 2016 following Cub’s move to the Veterans Home. Cub died in 2018. She was a member the Luverne Chapter of Eastern Star, Moccasins and flower club, Luverne United Methodist Church, Rock County Historical Society, Minnesota Historical Society, and Sigma Theta Tau National Honor Society of Nursing. Joyce is survived by her sister, Dena Waters of Minneapolis and her brother
Bob Thulin of Connecticut; her three daughters-Jodyne Holm of Austin TX, Jill Holmes (Jim) of Cedar Rapids IA, and Jennifer Hey (Tom) of Marshall; six grandchildren-Carina Miller, Charles Miller, Tom Holmes (Leah Eby), Peter Holmes, Sami Hey, and Sydney Hey; three great-grandchildren- Mackenzie, Mason and Madeline Miller; and her nephews and nieces. A time of fellowship was held July 10 at the Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne. A private family graveside service will be at Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne. Donald J. Dobmeier, 92, longtime funeral director and founder of Dobmeier Funeral Home, died on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at his winter home in Brownsville, Texas. Mass of Christian Burial was held July 18 at Assumption Catholic Church in Barnesville, MN with Father Todd Arends presiding. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Barnesville. A time of fellowship and food was held at the Blue Eagle Park in Barnesville. Visitation was held July 17 at Dobmeier Funeral Home in Barnesville, MN. Donald John Dobmeier was born on February 12, 1928 to John George and Mildred (Ripple) Dobmeier in Park River, ND where he attended school and grew to manhood. At the age of 16, the funeral director in Park River asked Don to take ambulance calls for the funeral home. This eventually turned into helping out in the funeral home, and Don found his calling. Don graduated from Walsh County High School, Park River, in 1946. That same year Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served as a “Pharmacist Mate” today’s hospital corpsman. Don was stationed at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida where he worked with aviators and their oxygen needs. He was honorably discharged in 1948. He returned home where he worked for the Norman Funeral Home of Grand Forks, ND and began his college career at the University of North Dakota. It was there he met Margaret in a speech
and debate class. He later transferred to the University of Minnesota where he completed his degree in Mortuary Science in 1951. On June 23, 1951, he was united in marriage to Margaret Ardene De Gagne in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in East Grand Forks, MN. The couple made their home in LaMoure, ND where he worked for the Groth Funeral Home and Hardware Store for seven years. They later owned and operated their own funeral home in LaMoure, ND. In 1958, they moved to Barnesville, MN where they purchased the Collins Funeral Home, later to be named the Dobmeier Funeral Home. In 1960, Don’s mother, Mildred, joined them in Barnesville where they purchased the Ben Franklin Variety Store in Barnesville. Mildred, Margaret, and Don owned and operated the store until 1978. Don and Margaret continued to own and operate the Funeral Home until 1988, when they retired and sold the funeral home to their son, John. They moved to their home on Lake Lizzie in rural Pelican Rapids, MN and wintered at South Padre Island, TX. They later wintered in Brownsville, TX. In 2001, they moved back into Barnesville where they lived until the time of Margaret’s death. For many years, Don summered in Detroit Lakes, MN and continued wintering in Brownsville, TX. Don epitomized funeral service and his compassion and humor comforted thousands of grieving families through the years. Don was involved in numerous civic groups and organizations including: The Barnesville American Legion Post 153, the Barnesville Lions Club, and The Barnesville Chamber of Commerce. He was also a member of the Assumption Catholic Church of Barnesville and the Knights of Columbus. Don was a very active member of the Minnesota Funeral Directors Association, serving as the District 9 director for many years, and the National Funeral Directors Association. Don is survived by his seven children: David (Joyce) Dobmeier, West Fargo, ND, Daniel (Tami) Dobmeier, Princeton, MN, John (Terry) Dobmeier, Barnesville, MN, Thomas (Paula) Dobmeier, Barnesville, MN, Karl (Diane) Dobmeier, Sheridan,
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IN MEMORIAM WY, Mary (Jerry) Braton, Aitkin, MN, Susan (Wayne Redmann) Dobmeier, Moorhead, MN, 14 grandchildren: Nicole Dobmeier, Aaron Dobmeier, Kristen Houlton, Laura Houlton, Taylor Dobmeier, Paige Dobmeier, Jessica Dobmeier, Noah Dobmeier, Brandon (Kayla) Dobmeier, Jordan (Katie) Dobmeier, Karla (Joe) Schmidt, Paul (Cori) Braton, Anne (John) Farley, Jack (Alicia Kuhlmann) Braton, and 9 great grandchildren, and special friend Helen Grant of Kenosha, WI. Don was preceded in death by his wife Margaret in 2002, one grandson Peter Dobmeier, and one sister Shirley Owen. Online memories and condolences may be shared at www. DobmeierFuneralHome.com Edgar E. Wright, Jr., Minnesota funeral director and father of Minnesota Funeral Director Steve Wright, 86, Moorhead, MN, died on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 in his home on Cormorant Lake.
He was always up for an adventure and he loved to be at the lake, first on Middle Cormorant and later Big Cormorant. He had what must have been a great job as a young man, lifeguard at Camp Emmaus. He loved to waterski and even built a waterski jump with his cousin out in front of the cabin. He taught all five of his kids as well as most of his nieces and nephews and many, many other kids how to water ski (a feat of great patience). Sailing, motorcycles, saunas and the Fourth of July all added to the lake adventures; he loved fireworks and put on quite a show in the 60’s and 70’s. Snow skiing was another love which he also taught and enjoyed with all of his kids, including many ski trips to the Rocky Mountains. In 1992, Ed sold the family business to his sons, Chip and Steve. He and Virginia spent a couple years traveling around the U.S. in a motorhome before settling in Naples, Florida for the winters. He loved introducing his family and friends to all that Florida had to offer. He inspired a love for the lake, the mountains, and the Florida Gulf Coast that lives on in all of his family.
Ed was born on June 27, 1934, in Fargo, ND, to Edgar and Hanny (Lund) Wright. He graduated from Moorhead High School in 1952 and then attended Concordia College until the end of his sophomore year when his father’s sudden death made it necessary for him to transfer to the University of Minnesota Mortuary Science program in order to continue the family funeral business.
Edgar is survived by his wife, Virginia; children Julie (Jeff) Huot, Jackson, WY, Steve (Leann) Wright, Fargo, ND, Jenny Alberding, Austin, TX, Sally (Erik) Lindell, Northfield, MN. Sister Marion Cain, San Antonio, TX; daughter-in-law Janet (Jeff) Wright Mortenson, Lake Park, MN; grandchildren Leif (YingYing) and Nils Huot, Emily Wright, Elise and Gabe Wright, Karl and Ingrid Alberding, Siri and Peder Lindell.
Edgar married Virginia Gilbery on October 9, 1954 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead.
He was preceded in death by his son, Edgar “Chip” Wright, III, and his grandson, Eric Wright.
He walked alongside thousands of grieving Moorhead families in his role as hometown funeral director. He was a strong advocate for Moorhead and he served the community and his church in many different roles in his younger years.
Visitation was held July 28. A private funeral was held July 29 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Interment will be in Prairie Home Cemetery, Moorhead. Video tribute and online guestbook at www.wrightfuneral.com
24 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
A. Dean Arnold, father of Minnesota Funeral Director Mark Arnold, age 90 of Bloomington. Born June 3, 1930 died August 11, 2020. A confident and quiet man who left a lasting legacy for all his family and friends to admire and remember. His faith in Christ was his measure of strength, a man not of the world but who’s focus was set on the beauty of the Resurrection. Born and raised in Canal Winchester Ohio. Graduated from Canal Winchester High School and soon after graduation he would meet a talkative sparky Italian woman who would complement his quiet nature. She caught his eye and attention and she would soon become his wife of 70 years, Delores Lombardi. They soon started a family and would move to Minneapolis which would become their new home. Dean worked very successfully for insurance companies as a safety inspector for many years and would enjoy retirement by taking on woodworking, home projects, reading and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Delores; children, Dean, Cheryl (Arnold) Rue (Wade), and Mark (Kelley); grandchildren, Laura Montiel (Lorenzo), Dean R. (Courtney), Melody and Nolan Arnold; Kymberli (Rue) Kuehn (Dan), Jennifer, Deanna, and Angela Aldrich (Joshua); Elizabeth Morris (Joe), Hilary, and Olivia; great-grandchildren, Tristan, Ava, Adelyn; Samantha (Luke), Sophia, Caleb, Michael, Gabriel, Jayden; Nicholas and Teddy. Preceded in death by grandson, Jeffery Arnold Rue. Funeral service was held August 14 at the Lakewood Chapel in Minneapolis. Visitation was held August 13 at the David Lee Chapel in Wayzata. Interment Lakewood Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Metro Women’s Center or Olive Tree Ministries.
Gary Carlin, longtime businessman and funeral director from Fosston, MN passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 19 at the age of 85 at Essentia Health First Care Living Center in Fosston. A private family funeral service was held September 26 at Hope Lutheran Church in Fosston with the Rev. Jane Ekholm officiating. Interment and a graveside service will be held immediately following the funeral service at Hope Lutheran Cemetery in Fosston. Visitation was held on September 25 at the Carlin Funeral Home in Fosston. In addition, the funeral and graveside service will be recorded and available for viewing on the Carlin Funeral Home website. Arrangements are with Carlin Family Funeral Service of Fosston and condolences may be shared at www. carlinfuneral.com.
the furniture store building expanding their retail floor space. In 1985, they built a large addition to their funeral home building in Fosston. In 1989, they bought out the Pederson-Hoialmen Funeral Home in Fosston and the ReeseHoialmen Funeral Home in McIntosh, MN. And in 1995, they built a new funeral home chapel to replace the old chapel in Erskine. Together Gary and Mark served these communities and the surrounding area for many years with great pride. Along the way, they were joined by Doug Hoialmen, Gary’s son, John, and Mark’s son, Tim, working at the funeral homes. In 1996, Gary bought out his brother, Mark and in 1997, Gary “retired” and sold the funeral home business to John and Tim. Although Gary officially retired in 1997, he never quit working in the funeral business. He is still a licensed mortician in Minnesota to this day and never turned down an opportunity to help out at the funeral home.
Gary Hildahl Carlin was born on July 25, 1935 the first of three sons to Hilding and Alice (Hildahl) Carlin in Fosston, MN where he grew up and graduated from Fosston High School with the Class of 1953. He attended Concordia College in Moorhead, MN for one year then went on to the University of Minnesota where he attained his Mortuary Science Degree before returning to Fosston to go to work for his father in the furniture and appliance business and the funeral home business.
During his retirement years Gary and Berniece traveled south for winter vacations and loved spending the summer at their cabin on Bemidji Lake. Many hours were spent driving the boat, pulling the grandkids tubing and waterskiing.
He was blessed because a young, beautiful lady named Berniece Brekke from Edmore, ND took a physical education teaching job in Fosston in 1955. Gary and Berniece were married on April 14, 1957 at Concordia Lutheran Church in Edmore and celebrated 63 years of marriage this year. Gary worked with his father in business at the Carlin Furniture Store and Carlin Funeral Home in Fosston and the Carlin Funeral Home in Erskine, MN until 1974. At that time, Hilding retired and Gary’s brother Mark returned to Fosston to join together in buying out their father’s businesses. Gary and Mark progressively operated the Carlin Furniture Store and the Carlin Funeral Homes for many years. In 1976, they built a large addition to
Gary was a dedicated Christian and was dedicated to his wife, his family, especially his grandchildren; his church; service to others; local church, school, and community events; and local sports. Gary and Berniece have traveled tens of thousands of miles and attended thousands of games played by their children and grandchildren over the years, rarely missing an event from grade school games to Big Ten Basketball games. He was a lifetime member, past president, and member of the choir at Hope Lutheran Church in Fosston where his grandfather, Rev. K.O. Hildahl, had been Pastor for 28 years. He served 20 years on the Fosston Volunteer Fire Department. Gary was a member of the Fosston Community Club, Fosston Rotary Club, served on the Fosston City Council, and had been given the Fosston Service Award. In his high school years Gary was very involved in football, basketball, baseball, Boy Scouts, and was
an exceptional trombone player in the band and throughout his entire life. He also loved golf and played a part with the original founders of the Fosston Golf Course. Many remember Gary as a survivor. He overcame and survived five different types of cancers, some of them several times over the last forty years, beginning with cancer in 1980 when he endured a major abdominal surgery and extremely harsh chemotherapy. Despite all the cancers and the treatments and the worries he rarely complained. He always came back and thrived. In the end it turned out to be something neither he nor his family saw coming. An unforgiving disease called Lewy Body Dementia. A disease you can’t fight and can’t beat because there is no cure. Gary will be deeply missed by his family and those who knew him. He loved to laugh and play practical jokes on any unsuspecting person he could, especially his family members and Berniece. On Saturday, September 19, 2020 Gary passed away peacefully after a difficult and courageous summer long battle with health issues at Essentia Health First Care Living Center in Fosston at the age of 85 years. Survivors include his wife Berniece of Fosston; three children, Kim (Mike) Roysland, John (Cathy) and Jeff (Jackie) all of Fosston; seven grandchildren, Kelly (Eric) Curry, Josh Roysland, Garrett (Emily) Carlin, Seth (Kylee) Carlin, Kailey Carlin (special friend Kory), Kelsey Carlin (fiancé Kaven), and Jaime Carlin; two great grandchildren, Brekken Curry and Hayes Curry; brother-in-law, Bud (Joan) Brekke of Devils Lake, ND; sisters-in-law, Ida Carlin of San Francisco, CA and Barbara Carlin of Fosston; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, David and Mark; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Margaret Brekke; as well as many other family members.
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26 MFDA Bulletin • FALL 2020
POWERED BY
SPECIAL THANKS TO MFDA’S 2020 ALLIED MEMBERS
MFDA thanks those individuals who have shown their commitment to MFDA and its members by becoming Allied members. To contact a member, call the MFDA office at 763-416-0124, refer to your MFDA Directory, or visit the online MFDA Buyer’s Guide at www.mnfuneral.org.
Anatomy Bequest Program Jake Anderson, Andrew Ashton, Paul Hill, Angela McArthur, Sarah Paulsen, John Straub, Tamara Voss www.bequest.umn.edu
Great Western Insurance Company Doug Stolt www.gwic.com
Midwest Medical Examiners Office Angie Chalmers www.midwestmedicalexaminer.com
Johnson Williams Funeral Car Todd Anderson www.jwfuneralcars.com
Northwestern Casket Co. David Koll www.nwcasket.com
Keith M. Merrick Co., Inc. Kyle Grimes www.keithmerrick.com
Pluto Boes Legal Callyn Bedker www.plutolegal.com
Assured Decontamination Service Perry Ebner www.deconservices.com
Kelco Supply Alicia Carr www.kelcosupply.com
The Purple Cross Plan Denis Nordlum www.purplecross.com
Baines Professional Vehicles John Baines www.4hearse.com
Keystone Funeral Home Design Build Russ Karasch www.keystone.db.com
Scene Clean Nate Berg www.scenecleanmn.com
Artco Casket Company, Inc. Al Whitmer, Steve Doscher, Wally Gelecinskyj www.artcocasket.com
Brown-Wilbert, Inc. Dave Gavin, Christopher Brown, Andrew Brown, Maleia Kavitz, Jeff Bauer, Jerry Brown www.brown-wilbert.com Children’s Grief Connection Alex Treitler www.childrensgriefconnection.com Cousineau, VanBergen, McNeese and Malone Michael Sharkey www.cvmmlaw.com Dodge Company Lincoln Plain www.dodgeco.com Federated Insurance Ben Cox www.federatedinsurance.com Forest Lawn Memorial Park Association Kari A. Hubbard www.forestlawnmn.com Funeral Directors Life John Harrington Scott Tufto www.funeraldirectorslife.com
Laker Insurance Patrick Zalusky LifeSource - Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation Kelley Romanowski Melinda Van Waus www.life-source.org Lions Gift of Sight (Formerly Minnesota Lions Eye Bank) Patty Stockdale www.mnlionseyebank.org
Senior Advantage Consultants Julie and Jim Palm www.sradvantageconsultants.com Steinhaus Supply Services Steven Steinhaus Sunburst Memorials Chris Taylor www.sunburstmemorials.com United Heritage Insurance Bob Hanson www.unitedheritage.com
Maguire Refining, Inc. John Maguire www.maguireref.com
University of Minnesota Mortuary Science Michael LuBrant www.mortuaryscience.umn.edu
MAS Communications Mary Reeves www.mascommunications.net
Wieser Vault Matt Wieser, Todd Wieser www.wieser-doric.com
Matthews Aurora Casket Roger Ruth, Alexis Smith www.matw.com Messenger Bob Hoaglund www.messengerstationery.com
Allied membership provides ways to reach Minnesota Funeral Directors. Annual Allied membership is just $360. For more information and to join, visit www.mnfuneral.org and click “Join MFDA” in the top menu.
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