Four members have been welcomed to the Wodonga Cemetery Trust as another stands down after almost 40 years’ service.
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Graham Gehrig joined the trust in 1974 and spent 34 years as chairman for the trust.
His involvement goes back even further to 1967 when he took on the position of assistant undertaker.
Mr Gehrig, who is moving to Melbourne with his wife Francis to be closer to family, listed the landscaping of the cemetery as a highlight.
“The last few years we’ve tidied her up to no end,” he said pointing to an area which had been levelled off and filled with aggregate.
His proudest achievement had been buying land in Baranduda for future use by the cemetery.
In the past 15 years, cremations have become more popular with burials now used in less than a third of cases.
As the trust is solely funded by burials, Mr Gehig said members and volunteers had worked hard to keep it afloat.
“We’ve done pretty well because we’ve always battled for a bob,” he said.
Changes had included opening a memorial garden for people to place ashes.
The four new members joining the trust will bring the number of members up to nine.
Ceryn Campbell, who was a Wodonga police officer, said she saw her role as an opportunity to continue to serve the community.
“I’m pleased that I’m on the trust and look forward to working with past and new members,” she said.
Albury TAFE information technology teacher Lubosh Hanuska said he had wanted to get involved with the trust after the recent burial of his father.
His skills will be used to help set up a new website.
Wodonga doctor John Moran and Masters Builders’ Association surveyor Michael McLinden will also bring skills to their new roles.
