Jeff Hartquist didn’t think he would follow his father into the funeral business. After high school, he attended Concordia College where he explored a variety of majors. During an internship at a construction equipment company, Jeff was speaking with a mentor when he realized that one thing he truly valued was relationships and making an impact in others’ lives. That moment ultimately led him to mortuary school at the University of Minnesota.

Jeff spoke to the young professionals about working with families as they grieve the loss of a loved one, educating them throughout the process, and involving them in the final stages of their loved one’s life. He shared that there needs to be some type of ceremony and that caring for one another during a time of loss is incredibly important.

The young professionals learned about the processes of embalming, cremation, and terramation, and were given a tour of the funeral home in Pipestone.

Hartquist Funeral Homes serves approximately 250 families each year, while also pre-planning services with an additional 270 families across their three locations.

Thank you to Hartquist Funeral Homes for being a financial sponsor of SWMN CEO and for sharing your business and experiences with the young professionals.