Plant Memorial Trees in Our Forest as Part of A Celebration Of Life

Purpose Of The Memorial Forest

The purpose of the Memorial Forest is to provide an opportunity to commemorate the life of a loved one, in a special way, by having a tree planted- a Living Memorial. Each tree in this natural forest will be in memory of one who has lived. A tree symbolizes strength, shelter and durability and planting a tree is a symbol of hope, a sign of a new beginning and a living tribute. It will be a source of comfort and meaning to those who have suffered a loss and help ease them through a difficult time. This program is not restricted to these served by Dods & McNair Funeral Home and Chapel. Everyone is invited to participate.

Where

Prominently located at Island Lake Conservation Area, on the outskirts of Orangeville, the Dods & McNair Memorial Forest will allow you, your family and the public to enjoy this beautiful remembrance of your loved one. The circular path of the Memorial Forest is directly off the main entrance of the Island Lake Conservation Area. Benches along with the memorial stone have been put in place to further enhance this area. Shelter beds and wildlife habitat corridors are being developed in many areas, and over time, these areas will be extended in length and planting density as new sections come into being.

Please click here for a map to the Island Lake Conservation Area

Why

The Dods & McNair Memorial Forest was established in recognition in part to assist those in grief and as recognition of the severe depletion of our forests. Beautiful as trees are, they provide much more - shade, wind protection, erosion control, and shelter for wildlife. They are vital in combating the greenhouse effect that is the result of the destruction of the ozone layer of our atmosphere. They remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, filter air, muffle noise and give us privacy. This program is our small part in the Major Endeavour to improve our environment.

How

 The planting of a tree may be arranged through the Dods & McNair Funeral Home & Chapel as a lasting tribute. The family of the deceased receive a Memorial Card stating that a tree has been planted in the Dods & McNair Memorial Forest, in memory of their loved one.

Cost

There is no charge for a Memorial Tree to those families who choose Dods & McNair Funeral Home & Chapel for a service. A Memorial Tree will be planted by the Gauthier family and staff of Dods & McNair Funeral Home & Chapel as an expression of our sympathy to you and your family.

The program, however, is available to all others in the Orangeville community who wish to participate. A Memorial Tree may be planted in memory of a loved one through this program, regardless of the duration of time since the death, where the death occurred or where a service was held.

The cost to have a tree planted is $50, payable to the Credit Valley Conservation Authority. The species and location of the trees are determined solely by the staff of the Credit Valley Conservation Authority.

Service or Celebration of Life Day:

Dods & McNair Funeral Home & Chapel are privileged to give back to the families that we have served thought this past year. Our service year is from the 2^nd Sunday in September to the following September.

On the day of the Dods & McNair Memorial Dedication Service one tree is planted as a symbol of all of the trees planted that year in memory all of those served by Dods & McNair as well as those who have purchased a tree.This is Dods & McNair Funeral Home & Chapel giving back; therefore, no cost to you is involved with the dedication service.

·The service takes place every 2^nd Sunday of September each year at 2:30 p.m.              Rain or Shine! 

·Approximately 1600 - 2000 people attend the service each year.

·It is best to show up well before the start time of the service.

·If possible, bring a lawn chair, seating is limited.

·Memorial Service will take about 1 hour.

·Refreshments will be served following the memorial service.

·Everyone is welcome. We have transportation from parking area to the tent for those needing assistance

To dedicate a tree in memory of a loved one, please call Dods & McNair Funeral Home at 519-941-1392.

Please visit the Listing of Memorial Trees.