Tech and cultural changes bring funerals into a new age

Funeral services have been modernized at a fast rate thanks to technology and cultural changes, according to a Saskatoon funeral director.

Lisa Bos with Hillcrest Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home told 650 CKOM’s Drew Remenda that the purpose of a service has changed significantly in recent years.

She mentioned that some people even record their own eulogies.

“It won’t be that long until we have holograms,” she joked.

She said one of the biggest benefits of advancing technology is the ability to have that personal touch.

“People are looking for that uniqueness. They want to look for ways that they can do things themselves, and make sure that their wishes are known,” she told Remenda.

“You’re able to tell your story the way you want to.”

According to Bos, changes have come quickly.

“Even ten years ago, cremation was a lot more taboo than it is today,” she said.

She believes this is because of a cultural shift.

“The focus becomes more on the person… (we) focus more on telling a life story,” she explained.

“It’s no longer about funeral services, it’s about a celebration of life.”