IN THE SHOES OF STEFANOS STEVEN SVOURENOS

When the time comes to say good-bye to a loved one, you certainly want to be supported throughout the various steps in a human, caring manner. So it is advisable to deal with a funeral home or complex and a funeral director—a great organizer at your service. My main role, above all, is to guide you through all the procedures, to pinpoint your needs or those of the deceased and to take charge of the funeral process for you. Discover the little-known occupation that we carry out every day as funeral directors.

 

Like a great orchestra conductor

By definition, the funeral director is the "person who manages the activities of a funeral home and ensures that the needs and wishes of families affected by a death are met, by informing them about available funeral services and providing them with advice”. With my great accessibility and my devotion to my occupation, I direct funerals both inside and outside the funeral home, unlike a funeral advisor, who meets with families only to determine their needs. My role is also to provide quality support, filled with great humanity and attentive listening to my often fragile clientele.

 

Our thorough process

Usually, the sequence is quite simple and begins with meeting with the family to understand their needs and create a contract that well represents their requests. Next, I inquire about such things as prayers to be recited, testimonials, special expectations, rituals, what to do with the flowers or plants, which route the procession will take, and so on. Then, I follow up on the file to ensure the availability of products from our suppliers as well as any legal documentation required as a result of a death. And lastly, I coordinate the events with the various places of worship (churches, funeral parlours, cemeteries, columbarium) and then I direct the viewing and the funeral itself.

 

An ally of bereaved families

As someone who is truly passionate about providing human support during a crucial period of a person’s life, I believe that a good funeral director must be attentive to the needs and emotions of his clientele and be open-minded. Moreover, being rational and methodical are important qualities to help me be well organized, especially when I deal with several files at the same time. Since the funeral industry is often very emotionally charged, we must learn to properly manage the emotional side of our work, which—let's face it—is not for everyone. It is also important to maintain good morale in order to respond adequately to our clients filled with emotions.

At the Aeterna Funeral Complex, we have four funeral directors at your service to help you through this difficult ordeal. As a complex specializing in world traditions and rituals, we are all dedicated to particular communities, enabling us to answer you in your first language and to organize the service according to your specific customs and traditions.

Contact us at 514-228-1888 and ask to speak to us. We will give you advice and comfort.