KeyNews Summer 2021

President’s Message

Greetings,

It has certainly been an interesting time to serve as President of the PCCFA. Just over six months into my role as President, we were suddenly impacted by the COBID-19 pandemic and, since then, have shouldered isolation from our peers and heightened exposure to a novel virus. Meetings were cancelled, guidelines changed rapidly and we were called upon to serve families in a very uniquely painful time of loss. Yet, we quickly embraced virtual meeting platforms and connected frequently by email or phone to share ideas and inspiration when needed most. There is not doubt that we have faced great challenges over the course of my term; however, through the bonds of our profession and the benefits of our membership in the PCCFA, we have been able to carry out our mission to provide comfort to the families we serve in a dignified manner that honors those who have gone before us. I am extremely proud of the dedication and compassion each of you has displayed during this historical time and it has been my true honor to serve as President of our esteemed organization.

If you have not done so already, there is still time to register for our Spring Conference, which will take place June 6-8 at the beautiful Eden Resort in Lancaster. I extend my personal thanks to Harry Neel and Ernie Petersen for all their efforts in coordinating this year’s conference. This wonderful event has been carefully planned and I’m very much looking forward to being able to gather again, in-person, as a community. Please plan to join us for the “passing of the gavel” to Dagny Neel Fitzpatrick, who will serve as Present for the 2021-2023 term. As Vice President and Celebrant at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, Funeral Home, & Crematory in Pittsburgh, I am very confident that Dagny will use her wealth of experience to serve as an excellent leader and resource for our members.

I am grateful for your support and participation in our organization throughout my tenure as President and I wish each of you the best of health and wellness as we enter brighter days ahead.

Sincerely,

David J. Michener
President