It was November 1994 when the extensive renovation at the Thomas L. DeBurger Funeral Home was completed and we are still receiving compliments from people about the warm, attractive colour scheme, the spacious chapel, the easy access afforded by the elevator and the comfort of our coffee lounge. The design of the addition and the style of bricks that were used matched and blended in wonderfully with the old structure.

            The original part of the building was built in the 1880's by a lumber dealer named Ed Huston as a family dwelling.  It is reputed to have been built for $7000.00.  Early families living here had surnames of Hicks and Clark.  It was first used as a funeral home in the early 1920's by Wilson Clark, son of George E. Clark.  In 1948 Harvey Holmes, who had been in the funeral business since 1916, and his nephew Walter B. Holmes purchased the building from Clark and established the Holmes Funeral Home.  Walter Holmes retired in 1975 when he sold his business to the partnership of William Alexander, Timothy E. Cummings and Thomas L. DeBurger.  In 1979 Mr. DeBurger acquired all the shares of the business and named it the Thomas L. DeBurger Funeral Home.

            Through the years there were several changes made in the interior of the building to enhance its beauty and to make it more functional as a funeral home.  However, very little was done to disturb the stately mansion-like outer appearance of the building.  At least not until March 1994. 

            The project actually started in February 1993 with meetings with the architect and town planning board.  The plans evolved and changed almost on a weekly basis.  Finally, by March 10, 1994 we had all the plans completed and the contractor chosen.  We were ready to start.  The building was doubled in size by the addition of 3500 square feet.  The Victorian theme of the old building was carried through into the new addition.  Our main goal in this addition was to be able to accommodate large crowds and make the facility more user friendly.  We could not get away from steps because of the elevation of the building, but the steps are now inside and gently sloped for easy access.  We have an elevator and two new washrooms that are designed to meet the needs of the physically challenged.  Also included in the addition was a large chapel capable of seating 120 people, a new arrangement office and casket display room.  One existing room was renovated to provide a spacious coffee lounge for the comfort and convenience of the families and their friends.

            As well as new and spacious facilities, we offer dignified, personalized service to the families that we serve.  The "Traditional Funeral" is a term still used by many people.  But what comprises a Traditional Funeral?  Today with the many cultures and religions in our communities the term Traditional Funeral is out of date.  What might be considered "traditional" for one family may be totally unacceptable for another family. "Personalized Funeral Service" is a more appropriate term. When a family comes to the Thomas L. DeBurger Funeral Home we strive to personalize the service so that it has particular significance for that family.  Specific music requests, placement of pictures and personal artifacts receive our special attention.      

The world is changing around us. The funeral profession is changing also and we are changing with it.  We offer "Funeral Counselling", "Pre-arranged Funerals", "Pre-paid Funerals", "Cremation", and “Memorial Service". Whatever your needs may be, we are willing to discuss them and accommodate you the best way possible.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.