About Us
About Us
My name is Ernie Heffner. I joined the family business in 1974 and John Katora joined in 1981. My late father, Jim Heffner, was a mentor to both of us instilling values not only about serving but specifically about caring for the deceased and the grieving family and friends in all of York County. Those values continue today with a team of the very best, compassionate and caring staff in the profession.
All of us understand that when someone loses a loved one, it's the worst day of the survivor's life. We are here to help by offering non-judgmental service, a safe place to go and sensitive, flexible people who can help. Below are two personal experiences you might find helpful in knowing about us.
July 4th, 2007, my father had been in failing health. He was 85. I decided to spend that night at my parents’ home. Sleeping on the sofa, it was just before midnight when my mother woke me. My father had passed. Like any other family who loses a loved one, I contacted my family members and called the funeral home. With 24/7 availability, I knew I could reach help. Although I didn’t know which funeral directors were on call that night, I knew whoever I could reach would come to my parents’ home in the middle of the night and take good care of my dad. That was comforting to me.
February 12th, 2013, my father-in-law passed away. He was 83 and had been under hospice care. In the weeks before his passing at home, my wife and I intended to cancel a trip we had planned a year prior. My father-in-law insisted we go and not cancel the trip. A proud 20 year U.S. Navy Veteran, his wishes were not to be ignored. We reluctantly left on our trip. He passed 2 days later. Although accessible by phone, it would be almost 2 days before we could get home. However, one call to the funeral home by my mother-in-law and I knew my father-in-law and the family at home would be in good hands. That was comforting to me. These two personal experiences left me feeling so thankful and appreciative that I had a 24/7 place to turn where sensitive, caring people were available to help me and my family. Just because we have a funeral home, doesn’t mean it is any different for us when a loved one dies.
On our website you will find so much information from our Satisfaction Guarantee to the unique services we offer and how we serve. However, I believe my two personal experiences are the essence of what you should know about us.
Please be assured that, like me, you and your family can call us 24/7 with confidence knowing that someone will answer your call and, with compassion and understanding, be available to help. You and your family deserve no less.
Respectfully,
Ernie Heffner
President
Heffner Funeral Chapels & Crematory
