From the Fall 2024 issue of The Independent magazine. 

OGR recently caught up with Kyle Grant from Wilson Funeral Home in Racine, Wisconsin about his personal and professional goals, his experience in the Wisconsin Air National Guard, and the latest trends in funeral service. Check out this excerpt of the interview below, or OGR members can read the full article in The Independent's digital magazine archive. 

What is your official job title and age? 

I am a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer and I'm 29 years old. 

How many years have you worked in funeral service?

Eight years so far with many more to come. 

Why did you begin working in funeral service? 

It originally started as a part-time job while I was in college for something totally different. However, I grew to love funeral service and helping the people in my community. I decided to pursue my passion and went back to school to become a funeral director. 

What is the most rewarding part of your occupation? 

The most rewarding part is helping the families. It makes me feel good knowing I am helping people during one of the most difficult times of their life. 

What are your professional goals? 

My professional goals are to manage a funeral home and maybe buy into/own one someday. 

What are you proud of that you have achieved so far during your career in funeral service? 

I was proud to have completed the mortuary program at Milwaukee Area Technical College and to have passed both NBE exams on the first try. I am proud to have taken on a greater role at my funeral home since I became licensed. The owners listen to my opinions and ideas, which is great for me as a professional. Overall, I am proud to have served so many families in my community since I have been licensed. 

What are some important/notable trends hat you have noticed in funeral service? 

Cremation, cremation, cremation... I am noticing people are not seeing the value in having funerals. 

Can you share a little bit about your experience attending OGR's Future Leader events? 

It was a great event! It was nice meeting and talking to different funeral service professionals from all over the country. Events like this are where I can talk to other directors and see what is working, what is not, and what trends they are noticing. 

To read the full interview with Kyle Grant, check out the latest issue of The Independent in our digital magazine archive!