– by Linda Hunter –
This is part of a rotating series of articles on members of Sidney Meet Up Women’s Networking Group, featuring women in business on the Saanich Peninsula.
Life’s most difficult times are those that benefit most from simplicity. At end of life, a time requiring clarity and understanding, is precisely when Leslie Duncan and her team at Sidney’s Simply Cremations “keep it simple.” Having originally worked in the Alberta-based company, it took only one visit to Sidney for Leslie to make a permanent move for both home and office, becoming the managing funeral director at the Island location.
A licensed funeral director, an earlier varied career included a stint with Canada Post, dog grooming and personal training before attending the Canadian College of Funeral Service and making a move into end of life services, in 2001. More than 87% of the population choose cremation over other means, and for more than a decade, Leslie and colleague Oceanna Hall (a Specialist with the Canadian Association of Spiritual Care and Counseling) have been helping people prepare for their final arrangements with care, warmth and simplicity. At an age when many of her own friends are assisting ageing parents, Leslie is proud to offer a service that is straightforward and simple in a time that can be complex and overwhelming. “Cremation allows you more time to plan, to gather loved ones, and to heal, saving ceremonies and celebrations of life for a time that works for all.”
At Simply Cremations, “we deal with people not death,” says Leslie, and their full range of affordable offerings is based on a basic fee structure with no commission and no surprises. This “up front” approach translates into a “no pressure” environment, where clients can focus on purchasing only what they truly need. Products and services include caskets, urns and funeral jewelry, as well as pre-planning. The office music is upbeat, pets are welcome, and you won’t find Leslie in a suit; it’s a business that deals with dying but is dedicated to life.
When not at work, Leslie is surrounded by love, in the form of her three rescue cats. She divides her time between supporting the Helping Homeless Cats of Greater Victoria Society, and as an active member of the Sidney Meet Up Group, where she makes business connections and builds friendships. This vibrant group offers Peninsula business women an opportunity to build community, support their business endeavours, and participate in local events and celebrations.
Simply Cremations is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Leslie is “on call” 24 hours a day. Reach out to her by phone at 250-656-5555 and find out more at http://www.simplycremations.com/. Check out their new “pre arrangement” office at Upstairs on Beacon (corner of 5th and Beacon Avenue in Sidney), in Norma Jean’s Closet.
