Toft acquires 2 funeral homes

BERLIN HEIGHTS — Sandusky-based Toft Funeral Home family recently acquired two area funeral homes: the Morman-Hinman Funeral Home in Berlin Heights and the Morman Funeral Home in Wakeman. Going forward, the new names will be: • Toft Funeral Home, Hinman Chapel, in Berlin Heights • Toft Funeral Home, Wakeman Chapel Through a company statement, which provides extensive background on the business, here is some additional context into Toft's decision: John "Jack" Toft started the three-generation-strong business on its track back in 1953 when he began a job working with burial vaults at Spoerr Concrete in Sandusky. His son, Steve Toft, later became a funeral director and opened Toft Funeral Home & Crematory in Sandusky in 1993. At present, the third generation is keeping the family-owned tradition alive. Funeral director Justin Toft said, "We had a unique opportunity to expand our services to more of the Firelands area. More than just expanding our business, acquiring the funeral homes in Wakeman and Berlin Heights help us fulfill our mission of providing top-notch funeral service to the communities we love." Toft began operating the funeral homes in September of this past year, and renovation and cleanup have begun at both locations. "Both buildings we purchased have a wealth of history in them," Justin said. "It is our goal to restore them to their former glory and make them something each community can be proud to call their own." At present, mostly interior work has been completed, but Justin said that major exterior work is scheduled for this spring. "People have been anxious to see what we're doing. We'll have open houses at each location once all the work is complete," Justin said. In addition to expanding its range, Toft has also expanded their workforce, bringing in locals to help families in their time of need. "As important as the buildings are, more importantly, we hired Mel Sayler," Justin said. Sayler is a native to both the Berlin Heights and Wakeman communities. His family has deep roots in the area, and his personal and professional background of caring makes him an excellent addition to the team, according to Toft. "Mel is serving his apprenticeship to become a licensed funeral director. His recent history as a hospice chaplain shows that we continue our own tradition of hiring people that uphold the highest level of care." Families should also know that prearranged funeral plans are safe. "As with any funeral home changeover, there is a transition period, but previously preplanned funeral services are safe. If you prepaid with the previous owners, your money is still here and Toft Funeral Home will conduct your services and honor your wishes." All three Toft locations are fully operational and ready to serve. "We welcome anyone who has questions to reach out to us at any time," Justin said. "We want to make sure that people have the support they need when they need it most."