Karen E. Sonnenberg has worked for 100 Mile Funeral Service since 2008, initially starting in bookkeeping and administration.
She moved to 100 Mile House in 2004 from the Coast with her husband and daughter, saying its the best move she ever made.
“I’ve worked in bookkeeping for over 40 years, Sonnenberg says, adding things have changed a lot since working with ledger books.
“But this isn’t just bookkeeping and I love it.”
She has grown with her job by not only taking care of the day-to-day administration of an office, and talking with clients, but also becoming a registrar for the government of British Columbia, which enables her to look after and produce all the documents for death certificates.
Karen’s natural empathy shines through when talking of the clients.
Over the years, she has grown in her ability to assist community members in what they need while they experience the loss of a loved one.
Having lost her husband about a year and a half ago gives her a little more insight in the emotions on the other side of the table.
“Every day has the basics, but in this profession you have to be fluid.
“We have to be flexible. When someone walks through those doors we have to be with them totally, sometimes that means just listening.”
Sonnenberg says she feels fortunate to work in the funeral service industry and knowing she can offer guidance to the people who experienced the loss of someone.
Noting the experience and knowledge she has gained over the years encompasses many of the services offered at 100 Mile Funeral Service, Sonnenberg says she is always learning from the people she meets.
