I was inspired to enter this line of work ... after
I began helping out at the funeral home when I was in high school
(washing cars, cutting lawn, etc.). The more I learned about the
business, the more interested I became and before I graduated from high
school I had decided to become a funeral director.
The most challenging aspect of my job is ... balancing the demands of the job with my family life and other responsibilities.
The thing that's changed the most in the industry since I started has been ... Cremation. When I first became licensed, it was not even a thought that we would be operating our own crematory.
The most rewarding part of my job is ... being thanked by families; hearing that our services helped and that we made a difference
My work philosophy is… work hard and play harder
The most memorable moment in my career was ... handling my Grandfather's funeral for my family.
The most frustrating moment of my career was… anytime that a family does not see value in the services that we provide
If I were to give advice to someone entering this line of work, it would be ...make
a commitment to continue learning. You always have to be looking for
ways to improve. Getting your license is only the beginning.
The direction I’d like to see our industry move is.... being more progressive and trying to anticipate what services future families will find value in.
My top professional goal is… to offer services that families find value in and to serve each family the best that I can.
If I weren't doing this, I'd probably be ... I really have no idea.
When I'm not working, I’m usually ... trying to keep up with my kid's and all of their activities.
My favorite place to travel is ... Cabo San Lucas.
My dream trip is … going to Egypt to see the pyramids and other sites that are thousands of years old.
The personal goals I want to achieve are ... being a good Dad for my kids and giving them the tools they need to succeed. Eventually, I would also like to finish the training for my pilot's license.
The most inspiring or interesting book I’ve read lately is ... "Between a Rock and a Hard Place" It
is the true story of a hiker who was trapped in a remote canyon for 6
days after a boulder came loose and pinned his wrist between the
boulder and the canyon wall. He eventually amputated his own arm with
a multi-tool pocket knife to free himself. It is a truly amazing
example of refusing to give up.
My favorite website or webtool is … www.myrhum-patten.com Just Kidding!!
The movie I'm recommending these days is ... Unfortunately, I haven't seen a current movie in months.
The best decision I ever made was ... to marry my wife.