From a grassroots movement that began in Calgary in 1966 to a province-wide leader in compassionate, affordable, and accessible end-of-life planning, the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS) has always been about people first. Rooted in the cooperative spirit, we empower individuals and families across Alberta with choice, dignity, and financial peace of mind. 

Our Mission: Making Funeral Planning Easier and More Affordable for Albertans.

We reduce the emotional and financial burden of funeral planning by providing:
✔ Education & resources for informed decision-making.
✔ Access to fair, dignified funeral services at preferred member prices from locally-owned funeral homes.

Our Vision: A Future Where Every Albertan Has Access to Dignified Farewells.

We believe in a world where everyone, regardless of background or means, can plan their final farewell with clarity and respect.

Our Journey: Growing Through Cooperation. Founded in 1966, CMS was built by everyday Albertans who believed in fairness and affordability. From the outset, we challenged industry norms, secured ethical partnerships with funeral homes, and championed member-driven solutions.
✔ 1971: Became the Calgary Co-operative Memorial Society Ltd., reinforcing our cooperative identity.
✔ 1980s: Strengthened governance and launched an educational trust fund.
✔ 2009–2012: Modernized with online memberships and launched digital funeral planning tools.
✔ 2017: Added more information and partnerships to support planning.
✔ 2022–2023: Expanded province-wide by welcoming members from Red Deer and Edmonton.
✔ 2024: Hired our first Executive Director, transitioning to a policy-driven board for sustainability and growth.

A Community That Stands Together
CMS isn’t just about funerals—it’s about ensuring every Albertan feels supported, heard, and prepared. With over 30,000 active members, we continue to grow, guided by the values of access, belonging, and community. 💰 Since we began, CMS has collectively saved Albertans well over $8 million in funeral costs—ensuring affordable, dignified farewells for all.

Join Us & Be Part of the Change
CMS is more than a membership—it’s a movement. Let’s continue to empower Albertans, protect families, and build a future where everyone can plan with confidence.

Compiled by Terry Geib

At the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS), our mission is to make end-of-life planning as simple and stress-free as possible for you and your loved ones. In our last post, we discussed the importance of planning ahead. Today, we’ll explore the practical steps you can take to ensure your wishes are respected and your family is supported during difficult times.

1. Understand the Four Critical Documents
Every adult in Alberta should have these key documents:

• Personal Directive: Names someone to make personal decisions if you're unable to.
• Enduring Power of Attorney: Appoints a trusted individual to manage your finances if needed.
• Financial Plans (Including a Will): Ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
• Funeral and Burial Plans: Outlines your preferences to guide your loved ones during a challenging time.

Taking the time to create these documents provides peace of mind for everyone involved.

2. Communicate Your Wishes
It’s not enough to have a plan—share it with those who need to know. Talk to your family, executor, and designated representatives about your preferences. Clear communication can help avoid confusion and reduce emotional stress.

3. Take Advantage of CMS Member Resources
CMS members have access to tools and resources that make planning easier. For example, our online registry lets you store your funeral preferences securely, ensuring they’re accessible when needed. Members also benefit from discounted funeral plans through our partnerships with trusted funeral providers.

4. Start Small, but Start Today
Planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with one step—whether it’s drafting a will, creating a personal directive, or exploring funeral options. Each action you take brings you closer to a complete plan and provides lasting reassurance for you and your loved ones.

Looking Ahead
In the coming weeks, we’ll dive deeper into the benefits of CMS membership and how it can help you take control of your future.
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Have questions or need support? Contact us at [email protected]. Together, we can make the planning process straightforward and meaningful.

Stay tuned for more updates and resources!

Welcome to the official blog of the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS), where we aim to provide valuable insights and updates on planning for life and end-of-life matters. At CMS, our mission is to help our members and their families navigate these crucial aspects of life with clarity and compassion.

Our blog will be your go-to resource for everything related to end-of-life planning. Whether you're seeking guidance on identifying your funeral preferences, understanding your options for memorial services, or exploring ways to protect your loved ones' future, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s what you can expect from our blog:

• Expert Advice: We’ll provide clear, actionable information to help you make informed decisions about life and end-of-life planning.
• Member' Stories: Hear from CMS members  and/or their families who have made thoughtful choices and learn from their experiences.
• Updates and Announcements: Stay informed about CMS events, new services, and the latest on our service providers and partners.
• Practical Tips: Get actionable tips and checklists to simplify your planning process and ensure you’re prepared for the future.

We believe that planning ahead brings peace of mind and ensures that your wishes are respected. Our goal is to support you in making these important decisions with confidence.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. We’re excited to share our knowledge and connect with you. If you have any questions or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to reach out. Here’s to a future where you are informed, empowered, and at peace.
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Warm regards,
The CMS Team
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