Meet a Cemetery Administrator: Samantha Olson
How long have you worked with Lansing Municipal Cemeteries? How did you first get into the profession?
I started working for the City of Lansing in April of 2024 in the Human Resources Department. I than applied for the Cemetery Admin Position, received the job offer and began working in this role in July of 2024.
What is your job like? What are you responsible for in a typical week?
My current responsibilities within my role are: Oversee the accurate processing and recording of burial orders, ensuring compliance with legal requirements for Burial Rights and burial documentation. Handle payments for gravesites and burial services, issue receipts and prepare weekly financial deposits, resolve visitor concerns, assist with grave site locations and genealogy inquiries, while ensuring visitors receive comprehensive and accurate information. Manage stakeholder relationships with government entities and Veteran Affairs, to ensure the accuracy of Marker and Monument Foundation orders from monument companies and coordinates to process government marker requests. Prepare detailed monthly reports, organize high volumes of records, and maintain efficient filing and database systems in a fast-paced environment. Manage forms and logistical details for cemetery disinterment processes, using advanced organizational processes and skills.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Interacting with people from all different types of backgrounds.
What do you wish more people knew about funerals and cemeteries?
That cemeteries are not a scary place. Many people often take walks through cemeteries and sometimes find it a bit peaceful.
What was the most memorable burial that you've helped with?
The most memorable burial for myself was when a very nice gentlemen came to speak with me about the burial process as his wife was getting ready to pass away due to medical reasons. His strength and kindness during such a difficult time in his life was something I really admired. I went out to the cemetery to show him different options that we had available and was able to help him find a great spot for his wife to have a final resting place.
Do you have any thoughts or recommendations for people who are grieving?
Know that you are not alone! There are many different resources and support groups to help with the grieving process. Talk to your friends, family and other loved ones and surround yourself with people who will support you in your healing journey.
Is there anything else that you'd like to share with our audience?
The City of Lansing maintains three cemeteries. North Cemetery, Mount Hope Cemetery and Evergreen Cemetery. We offer columbium sites as well as cremation tower plots, and regular gravesite plots. For more information, please contact our office at 517-483-4303 or visit our website Municipal Cemeteries | Lansing, MI - Official Website.
