Farewell to an Industry Titan

In August I had the honour of filming and photographing the Late Stephen Mogler's chapel service. Stephen was a father figure to many in the funeral industry. His company Statewide Mortuary Transfers Pty Ltd has strong relationships with many funeral homes.

The day itself was emotional to film and photograph.

Family, friends, workmates and employees all turned up to farewell Stephen.

Stephen was transported from Statewide’s base in St Marys to Pinegrove Memorial Park in a vintage red Ford ute with a procession of Statewide work vans following. The employees, along with the white Statewide vans, then formed a guard of honour for Stephen’s ute, which was flanked by his pallbearers. Bagpiper Barry Gray led the hearse up the road, to the placement of Stephen's coffin inside the chapel.

Celebrant David Reardon B. Th. opened the service by thanking guests in attendance, and informing them that proceedings would not be ‘politically correct’ - in true keeping with Stephen’s character.

There were many moving moments to film and photograph; the written messages on Stephen’s casket, the procession to the chapel, the speakers paying tribute, and guests placing roses on Stephen’s coffin. The family chose our Premium videography package, which meant the service itself was recorded on 3 camera angles (plus footage before and after the service), allowing me to capture all of these special moments.

David closed the service with the final comment “Share your laughs, share your memories…that’s what he’d want”.

R.I.P. Steve 1955 ~ 2019

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Thank you to Scott Gleeson from Scott Gleeson Funerals for conducting. Also to Jim & Janet from Nepean Valley Funerals (Jim called me to let me know of Stephen’s passing), and Vanessa and Josh from Jeffrey Bros Funeral Services.

And of course a special thanks to Donna, Kelly and family for allowing me to capture these memorable moments from the day.

Funeral Director: Scott Gleeson Funerals

Celebrant: David Reardon B. Th.

Location: North Chapel, Pinegrove Memorial Park

Bagpiper: Barry Gray - Pipers of Distinction