If anyone had told Mark Mortlock that he was going to start a funeral business eight months ago, he would have told them they were crazy.
But that’s exactly what happened.
“At a close friend’s funeral I had a profound conversation with a funeral director, which changed the course of my life,” he says.
“I suddenly saw there was a real need for services that were flexible enough to fit with what people want and need.”
Before starting the mobile funeral service called Hibiscus Funeral Services last month, Mark worked for more than nine years as the general manager at City Impact Church.
“Funerals can be expensive and often there is little choice. By being mobile, we offer a personalised service with a flat fee.
“We take care of everything to do with the loved one’s passing, from the service to burial or cremation.”
The days of a funeral only being held in a church are over, Mark says. More and more people are choosing non-traditional funerals which become ‘celebration of life’ ceremonies.
These can be held anywhere from a local hall to the beach.
Mark says he and his team work with the family to design a funeral that best reflects the person’s life.
“New Zealanders don’t like to think about death but it is something you should spend time planning. It can be a traumatic time for the family so the more thought that is put into it beforehand, the easier it is. ”
Mark says the options are endless. Popular choices include the eco funeral where the body isn’t embalmed (this means the funeral has to be held soon after death), to spreading ashes over a favourite spot in the bush.
“You could say I am just like a wedding planner but for funerals. I help organise everything to make sure we send off the loved one perfectly.”
Mark has been married to Leanne for 21 years and they have three children.
He says the business has become a family business with everyone helping out when needed.
“The children help at the service and give out booklets and make cups of tea.”
He says he is motivated by his love of people and he works hard to provide them with the guidance, support and help that they need through the journey of farewelling their loved one.
Local Matters Business Directory: Hibiscus Funeral Services
