A Second Calling: Cindy’s Journey from Retirement to Funeral Service

After a 40-year career as an administrative assistant, Cindy Hapanowitz found herself feeling unfulfilled in retirement. That changed when a friend suggested she apply for a position at Piasecki Funeral Home. What began as a way to stay active soon evolved into something much deeper: a meaningful second career rooted in compassion, service, and faith.

Today, Cindy serves as both a Funeral Director Assistant and a Celebrant at Piasecki. Her dual role allows her to support families during one of the most difficult times in their lives, offering care, guidance, and comfort. “I think of myself as compassionate,” she said, “and this job allows me to express that to people who are hurting.”

As a Funeral Director Assistant, Cindy’s responsibilities focus on supporting families and ensuring the smooth coordination of services. She welcomes guests, helps them navigate the facility, and assists with logistics such as funeral processions, floral arrangements, and transportation to churches or cemeteries. While she does not handle the planning or preparation of the deceased, her calming presence is essential to every service she attends.

In her role as a Celebrant, Cindy takes on a more personal and spiritual responsibility. She works closely with families to craft services that reflect their loved one’s life and beliefs. It all begins with a conversation. “I ask them questions about what their loved one was like, what kind of person they were, what their interests were,” she explained. “Then I weave that into the service with prayers and music.” When families are unsure of what they want, she gently guides them by listening closely and helping them shape a service rooted in their memories and values.

Faith is at the heart of Cindy’s work. Her decision to become a Celebrant stemmed from a desire to share Christ with families—whether through funerals or wedding ceremonies. “Being a celebrant gives me a greater opportunity to share faith with the family and the comfort that Christ offers them,” she said. This becomes especially meaningful during emotionally challenging services, such as those for children. “Trying to meet their emotional needs—whether at the funeral home, church, or cemetery—can be difficult,” she admitted. “But my faith in Christ keeps me grounded.”

Cindy credits God for the qualities that enable her to serve with compassion—kindness, gentleness, and faith. These values help her form authentic connections with each family she meets. “I introduce myself and try to ‘be there’ for them,” she said. “It’s simple, but it means a lot.”

Her life outside of work also contributes to her empathy and creativity. One of her favorite pastimes is raising Monarch butterflies, a hobby she finds deeply fulfilling. She occasionally brings this passion into her work, coordinating butterfly releases with families as a symbolic farewell. “Allowing a butterfly to be released by the family at the cemetery is very cathartic,” she shared. Cindy also creates jewelry and artwork from naturally preserved Monarchs, which she displays at local craft fairs.

She has been married for 49 years to her husband, Alan. He works part-time for the Village of Somers, mowing grass at Oakwood Cemetery.

When she’s not working or tending to butterflies, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren—who live right next door—and riding her Indian three-wheeled motorcycle. These hobbies help her stay grounded and energized, giving her the balance she needs to serve others with grace.

She is also active in her church community, attending services, participating in Bible studies, serving as a greeter, and volunteering on the counting committee. She is also a board member of the Ladies New Heart Luncheon. Her strong connection to her faith community continues to deepen her capacity to support others through grief and healing.

One thing she wishes more people understood is the importance of planning ahead. “It is never too early to plan for your funeral services,” she emphasized. When it comes to memorial services, she believes they should always honor the individual. That can take many forms, but for Cindy, weaving in personal memories, music, and a sense of peace is key to creating something meaningful.

When asked what she enjoys most about working at Piasecki, Cindy doesn’t hesitate. “The great people on the team! I love working with all of them—especially Millie!” It’s clear that for Cindy, this work is far more than a job. It’s a second calling—one filled with purpose, compassion, and the opportunity to walk alongside others during life’s most tender moments.