Story and photo by Matt Weingarden
An array of new options and improvements to the Ste. Anne Church Cemetery in Tecumseh has helped to kickstart a ‘new 100-year-old business.’
Patricia Simone, manager of the Ste. Anne Cemetery says a number of new and updated features have been implemented at the cemetery.
One of the improvements being undertaken include a reorganization of the cemetery’s records of death.
“We had several boxes full of records that were all mixed up,” said Patricia Simone
Manager of the Ste. Anne Cemetery. “It took ten women volunteering for eight months to create files on everyone who has purchased (a plot) or has passed away.”
Simone says the compilation of records can now allow for someone to access historical records on a relative if they are doing genealogical research on their family members whether they were a church member/parishioner or not.
“So, it comes down to offering a public service to the entire community,” added Simone.
Also, photos have been taken of every headstone in the cemetery to help with identification. The cemeterians are in the process of digitizing all the records and photos compiled by student Jenalyn Mailloux are being uploaded to the ‘Find a Grave’ website and she is also creating an electronic record of all files for the church office.
“Interestingly enough, way back in the day, most purchases were made for “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith”, for example. Well, now we have to figure out what was Mrs. Smith’s first name?” said Simone. “Her first name should be on the paper and electronic records, not just etched in the stone! Eventually, one day when the cemetery is full, all of this information will be archived in the rectory basement, so that genealogical research can always be accessed!”
Simone has created a new office within the church with full accessibility to meet with families and for conducting the legislated contractual business if a death has occurred or if someone wants to prearrange and purchase a grave for burial or a niche for cremation.
A number of changes are also taking place at the cemetery, a mere two blocks from the church:
“We are remapping the cemetery; figuring out who has passed away and who has not; we are correcting the spelling of names and clarifying plot positions,” said Simone.
She shares that one of the new improvements now includes the addition of a 100-year-old cross that was originally atop the church spire. It was recently refurbished and has now been installed and mounted behind the refurbished mausoleum.
“A cemetery should be a historical tribute to the community it serves,” said Simone. “And although the cemetery looks like it might be full, there are actually numerous graves and niches available”.
Fifteen new “Stations of the Cross” have been custom made from recycled telephone poles by local famous woodcarver Rusty Barton and customized plaques were sold as a fundraiser to fund a much needed drainage project in the middle sections.
Thanks to James Sylvestre Enterprises for their generous donation of tiling, stone and catch basin products, the elimination of seasonal flooding shall provide a measure of comfort to the families whose loved ones are interred in the historically problematic areas.
Newly installed section signs will help relatives to determine the location of loved ones.
“The blue fabric flag type feature well known Catholic symbols and people can eventually look for row numbers as well”, Simone added. “Orange stick markers show us where plots are still available.”
Simone adds that new columbariums will soon be added, and a plaque is expected to arrive in the next few weeks documenting the history of this cemetery which was founded in 1861.
The mausoleum/monument, added in 1927 in the centre of the cemetery, has been upgraded, repointed and new columbarium/niches will be added. The cross has been painted blue to reflect the St. Anne High School colours – a subtle nod to the community.
Blue tents are erected for every interment which provides shelter from the elements for family members and is a symbol of respect for the deceased.
“As the majority of people who pass away are now being cremated, we are able to offer the interment of up to four cremated remains on top of a buried relative, if you can prove the family heritage.” said Simone. “So, this beautiful historic seven- acre cemetery still has lots of longevity to serve the Town of Tecumseh and Lakeshore and beyond.”
Simone is happy with the renovation results so far, thankful for the continued work of the groundskeepers and their dedicated work as an essential part of the ongoing projects.
“We’re really proud of what we’ve accomplished…we look forward to further planned improvements as well,” concluded Simone.
Patricia Simone, has been a licensed Funeral Director since 1982 and was formerly the General Manager at Heavenly Rest Family of Catholic Cemeteries.
For more information on property available at Ste. Anne Cemetery (located at Lesperance Road, corner of E C Row):
Call: 519-735-2182 X 248
Email: steannescemetery@dol.ca
Facebook: Ste. Anne’s Cemetery
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