2024 CCFW Annual Conference Recap

The Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Services of the West Conference was held in Sacramento January 29-31, bringing together industry professionals, members of the clergy, and supplier partners to discuss the latest developments in the funeral and cemetery industry, as well as revitalizing our mission of why we do what we do.

The conference covered a wide range of topics, including:

“5 Deathcare Issues That Will Affect You How To CYA In Our Changing World”
Presented by Poul Lemasters

RoundTable & Panel Discussion “Historic Institutions with Modern Day Challenges”
Facilitated by Past President Jerry Del Core
Special presentations by Douglas Farruggia and Peter Nobes

“Attract More Catholic Families Through Highly-Engaging Estate Planning Workshops!”
Presented by Laura Meier

“Catholic Identity”
Presented by Deacon David Lawrence

“Put Your Mask on First BEFORE Assisting Others – Self-care in Funeral Service”
Presented by Angelique Simpson

View the 2024 printed program for details on our speakers and the schedule: CCFW 2024 Onsite Brochure

The conference also featured a Supplier Face to Face Time Session, where attendees could learn about the latest products and services in the funeral and cemetery industry. From cemetery management software to cemetery memorials, there was something for everyone at the show.

In addition to the educational and networking opportunities, the conference also provided a time for attendees to reflect on the important work they do every day and enjoy their time with each other. We kicked off the conference with a special tour of the California State Capitol, followed by the President’s Welcome Reception on Monday night, the growing popularity of the Tuesday group dinner at Cafeteria 15L and finally a tour and reception hosted by St Mary Cemetery & Funeral Center in Sacramento.

We would also like to give a special thank you Jerry Del Core and Kore Higuchi and the rest of the Diocese of Sacramento Funeral Home and Cemetery team for all their support for this year’s conference. Our attendees enjoyed wonderful tour of the beautiful St Mary Cemetery & Funeral Center. Followed by  Mass and the closing dinner, complete with live entertainment!

The funeral and cemetery industry is a unique and meaningful field, and the Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Home Conference provided a space for professionals to come together and learn, grow, and support one another.

2024 Annual Conference Photos

2024 Annual Conference Sponsors – Thank You!

Matthews Memorialization/Cemetery Products: Program Printing Sponsor

Cemetery360 & Live Control:  Raffle Sponsors

Davey Tree: Monday President’s Reception Sponsor

Coldspring: Tuesday Breakfast Sponsor

Paradise Pictures: Wednesday Evening Reception Sponsor

Biondan: Lanyard and Name Badge Sponsor

Strassacker: Tote Bags

Global Atlantic: Speaker Sponsor

The Tuesday Group Dinner at Cafeteria 15L was sponsored by:

Aftercare.com, American Crematory Equipment, Biondan, Ensure-A-Seal, Garfield Refining, Global Bronze, PlotBox, SoCal Approach and Viewlogies  

2025 Annual Conference

While we can’t officially announce next year’s annual conference location, we are excited to be viewing venues in the San Diego area! Stay tuned for more information.