Introduction
Life is full of surprises—some joyful, some challenging. One of the most difficult moments for any family comes with the loss of a loved one. In those moments, decisions about funeral arrangements often need to be made quickly, at a time of grief and stress. But what if those decisions were already made, leaving family and friends with space to grieve and remember?

At the Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS), we believe that taking the time to plan ahead is one of the most thoughtful and responsible things you can do for yourself and your loved ones.

Why Pre-Planning Saves Money and Stress
When you plan ahead, you’re not only sparing your family from having to make hard choices under pressure—you’re also likely to save money. Funeral expenses can add up quickly, especially if decisions are made in the heat of the moment. CMS members benefit from discounted rates with our partner funeral providers, ensuring that arrangements are made at a reasonable cost.

What Choices Are Available Through CMS
CMS partners with locally owned funeral homes throughout Alberta to offer flexible, affordable plans. Members can choose simple cremation, burial, or other options that reflect their wishes. Our plans are designed to be transparent and easy to understand, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Key Documents Every Albertan Needs
Pre-planning isn’t just about funeral arrangements. Every adult in Alberta should consider having four essential documents in place:

• Will and Estate Plan
• Personal Directive (for health care decisions)
• Enduring Power of Attorney (for financial decisions)
• Funeral and Burial Preferences (which CMS can help document)

These documents ensure that your wishes are known and that your loved ones have the guidance they need.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many people believe prepaying for a funeral is the only way to plan ahead. While CMS supports pre-planning, we emphasize that prepaying is not required. Planning ahead means making decisions now and sharing them with your loved ones—not paying for services in advance, which (depending on your situation) can limit flexibility and create financial risks.

How CMS Makes It Easier
As a member-driven cooperative, CMS provides tools and resources to make pre-planning simple and affordable. Our online member registry allows you to record your preferences, which funeral providers can access at the time of need. Our workshops, educational materials, and one-on-one support are designed to guide you through every step.

Call to Action
Ready to take the first step? Join CMS today for just $40 and give yourself and your family the gift of peace of mind. You can learn more by visiting our website or calling us at 403-248-2044.

Closing
Planning ahead isn’t about dwelling on the end—it’s about making sure your family is supported and your wishes are respected. CMS is here to help you create a thoughtful plan that brings comfort and clarity for years to come.

​On April 28, 2025, Canadians will head to the polls during a pivotal federal election. As we face major challenges in affordability, housing, and social cohesion, the co-operative model offers real solutions rooted in community, compassion, and fairness.
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The Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS) is proud to be part of Canada’s co-operative movement. We believe every Albertan deserves affordable, dignified end-of-life planning — and we’re using this election as a platform to make our voices heard.

What We're Doing
CMS is participating in a nationwide effort to:

• Highlight the impact of co-operatives like CMS
• Share stories of affordable, community-based solutions
• Engage candidates on how co-ops strengthen our economy and social fabric

How You Can Help

1. Talk about CMS
Share a 2-minute story with friends, family, or candidates about how CMS supports thousands of Albertans with accessible funeral planning options. Post on social media using #CoopsVote.

2. Contact Your Candidates
Tell your local candidates why CMS matters. Invite them to learn more, and ask them to support co-operatives in their platforms. Download the Open Letter to send by email.

3. Write to Your Local Paper
Submit a letter to the editor about how co-operatives help with affordability and community resilience. CMS has helped thousands avoid financial hardship during life’s hardest moments.

4. Welcome Candidate Visits (Non-Partisan)
If a candidate reaches out, or you know them, share information about CMS. Our "About CMS" info sheet can be found under Forms and Resources on our website so you can share our impact clearly and professionally.

5. Vote on April 28
Make your voice count. Visit Elections Canada to find your riding, polling location, and voter ID requirements. Canada now has 343 electoral districts — many with updated boundaries and names.

Let’s make sure the word co-operative is heard loud and clear this election season. Our values of dignity, fairness, and compassion matter now more than ever.

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