In 1999, my good friend Stuart died of cancer. I was his primary caregiver, enduring power of attorney and also an executor. This was a very emotional and painful experience for me, but through helping Stuart, I learned some valuable lessons that I pass on to you. First, let’s review some typical funeral costs in the Calgary area. Another friend just lost his father early in 1999. The most simple cremation, with no service cost the family $1900! My mother told me about the Calgary Co-Operative Memorial Society. She has been a member for almost 10 years. We knew Stuart would die soon, perhaps hours, days or weeks. It was important to sign him as a member quickly, as only the living are allowed to join. I contacted the Society and Stuart became a member that day.

When he died a week later, the benefits were enormous. Stuart had requested cremation with no service and no urn. The simplest possible process. Through the Memorial Association the funeral arrangements were made ahead of time. The Funeral Home selected, McInnis & Holloway were excellent and followed all the pre-arrangements perfectly. On Monday, they picked up and delivered Stuart to the crematorium, filled out all legal and government required documents, assisted with the wording of the obituary for the newspaper, placed the obituary in the paper, and returned the ashes, death certificates and burial certificate to me on Friday.

The cost? LESS THAN $750!! Take it from someone who has been there. Becoming a member of this volunteer society should be the next thing you do. Where else can you spend $20 and save at least $1000? I get no benefit from telling you this except the knowledge that my friend's death has produced a legacy of value for us. TRUST ME! FILL out the application form (this takes five (5) minutes - DO IT NOW!). MAIL $20 per adult to the Calgary Co-operative Memorial Society Ltd. (Children under 18 years are covered for free). COVERAGE starts as soon as the envelope is in the mail. ACT NOW!


Written and submitted by Alan Davis

Please note that the financial details mentioned are dated from a previous provider contract, however, the intent of the message still rings true.