Legacy Funerals has become the biggest funeral director in the Western Bay after taking over a competitor - and the move can only benefit the community.
Established three years ago, Legacy Funerals has bought Todd Gower Funeral Services and day to day business will continue under the two brands.
But the profitfrom the combined operation will now flow into the community, meaning annual distributions to organisations and projects will increase by about 30 per cent.
Legacy is conducting nearly 400 services a year and Todd Gower 140, and over the past three years Legacy has handed out $530,000 for surf lifesaving, Tauranga Coastguard and Foodbank, Waipuna Hospice, rescue helicopter, youth programmes and scholarships, to name a few.
"We never set out to be the biggest," said Legacy general manager Mike Savage. "We wanted to be the best and provide an excellent service.
"Todd (Gower) was the same and it's great to have him onboard. It's a joint venture, really, and it will enhance both businesses," Mr Savage said.
Though sad at parting with his "baby", Mr Gower can look forward to an improved lifestyle. He has not had a holiday since starting Todd Gower Funeral Services six years ago, having to be on call after hours every day.
"I always had the phone and stayed close to work. I couldn't go fishing or anything like that," said Mr Gower who, has been in the industry for 17 years.
"I was happy to join up with Legacy knowing the profit was going into the community - that's a good feeling," he said.
Mr Gower will now work on a salary and be on call one week in every month. His colleague, Paula Williamson, is also joining Legacy, taking its staff to 10.
Todd Gower Funeral Services will still operate from its premises in Waihi Rd and it will have use of Legacy's funeral homes, Woodhill in Grange Rd and Tauranga Park in Pyes Pa, for services.
Legacy Funerals, owned by a registered charitable trust, was formed on September 1, 2007, after funeral director and former city councillor Greg Brownless donated his business to the community.
With Legacy and Todd Gower joining forces, the local region now has three main players - with Jones and Co, and Elliotts Funeral Services.
Mr Savage said Legacy had plans to extend Tauranga Park with new offices and garage.
