Sponsored: Peace of Mind for You, and the Ones You Leave Behind
When the time comes, the last thing any family wants to face is confusion, pressure, or financial stress. Yet far too many Albertans pass away without sharing their final wishes — leaving loved ones to make emotional decisions in a moment of grief.
That’s where the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS) comes in. Founded in 1966, CMS is a member-owned, non-profit organization dedicated to helping Albertans plan ahead for life’s final chapter. For a one-time membership fee of just $40, members gain access to pre-negotiated, discounted funeral plans through locally owned funeral homes in major Alberta cities — including Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.
While cost savings can be substantial — often $2,500 or more on a basic plan — the real value of membership lies in the peace of mind it brings. “People tell us they joined CMS not just to save money, but to spare their families the stress of making difficult choices,” says Terry Geib, Executive Director of the Cooperative Memorial Society. “It’s one of the most caring things you can do for your loved ones.”
Members can record their funeral preferences in advance, so when the time comes, their chosen funeral home already knows exactly what they wanted — and at an agreed-upon price. Families are spared from guesswork, high-pressure sales, or unexpected costs.
CMS partners only with independently owned Alberta funeral homes, ensuring that members are served by professionals who share the co-op’s values of integrity, transparency, and compassion.
Over nearly six decades, CMS has quietly helped tens of thousands of Albertans plan ahead, providing an alternative to corporate funeral chains and costly pre-paid packages. Membership must be purchased before death, but once joined, it lasts a lifetime.
“Planning ahead doesn’t have to be hard,” says Geib. “It’s an act of love — and one of the greatest gifts you can leave your family.”
To learn more or become a member, visit www.coopmemorial.org, email admin@coopmemorial.org, or call 403-248-2044.
