Non-Profit · Member-Owned Since 1966

The Cooperative Memorial Society exists for
one reason: to reduce the emotional and
​financial stress of funeral planning for Albertans.

We are a non-profit, member-owned co-operative — not a funeral home, not a sales
organization. We help Albertans plan ahead with dignity and confidence through public
education, practical planning tools, and access to fairly priced funeral services through
​trusted locally owned providers across the province.​

Our Ends

In plain terms, here's what we're working toward:

1

Albertans have access to affordable, dignified funeral options regardless of income or circumstance.

2

Individuals and families can plan ahead with clarity and confidence, free from high-pressure sales tactics.

3

Members are protected from inflated pricing and predatory practices in the funeral industry.

4

Communities are equipped with honest, practical information about end-of-life planning.

5

The co-operative model continues to demonstrate that people are better served when they work together.

What Membership Offers

Practical benefits, available the moment you join.

Affordable, Pre-Negotiated Plans

CMS partners with locally owned funeral homes across Alberta to provide simple, affordable plans exclusively for members — significantly lower cost than corporate providers.

Education & Advocacy

Resources, presentations, and practical guidance to help you understand your options, avoid unnecessary expenses, and make informed decisions.

Secure Storage of Preferences

Your funeral preferences are securely stored and accessible to our partner funeral homes, so families aren't left guessing during an already difficult time.

Consumer Protection

CMS is a counterweight to the high-pressure sales tactics and inflated pricing common in the corporate funeral industry.

Community Tools & Resources

Educational workshops and a quarterly newsletter give families what they need to navigate end-of-life planning with confidence.

What Makes CMS Different

Three things that set a member-owned co-operative apart.

We are not a funeral home.

CMS doesn't provide funeral services directly. We connect members with trusted local funeral homes that honour our pre-negotiated plans and our commitment to ethical pricing.

We are member-owned and not-for-profit.

CMS is owned by its members, not shareholders. There's no profit motive, no sales quota, and no pressure — only the priority of serving members well.

We are built on transparency and trust.

Clear, straightforward options. No hidden fees, no upselling, and no pressure to purchase services you don't need or want.

Stay connected 

​Each quarter, CMS publishes a newsletter covering upcoming events, planning tips, member stories, and industry news — emailed to the address we have on file.

Become a Member

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