Ron and Holly joined the family business in 1995 and then stepped in as the owners in 2010. With a deep passion for guiding families through their most profound moments of grief, they have dedicated their lives to providing compassionate support and solace during life’s most challenging moments. Their extensive experience and genuine care make them invaluable mentors in their professional roles as well as in their community.

     Outside of their professional life, Ron is an avid hunter and enjoys the peacefulness of the outdoors. He particularly enjoys preparing for the deer season with his father, sons, and friends by cultivating food plots. Additionally, Ron coaches the local Pop Warner football team and is a dedicated Arizona Cardinals fan and makes a point to attend their first game every year. 

     Holly is deeply dedicated to the local church, where she teaches Sunday school and cultivates the spiritual growth of young minds. She also finds joy in tending to her flower garden, hosting family get-togethers, and taking evening boat rides on Intermediate Lake.

     Together, they are devoted parents and grandparents, eager to spend any free time with their nine grandchildren Mary Kaye, Knox, Teddy, Reid, Joanna, Cade, Alvin, and new twins Clyde and Carter Ann. 

     Gary and Sue owned and operated our family funeral home from 1980 until their son Ron and daughter-in-law Holly took over ownership. They have created a cornerstone of compassionate care and community support. 

     Gary is affectionately known as the “Founding Father”, “Cemetery Guru”, and “Proud Papa.” He is renowned for his extensive knowledge, his friendly approach to all, and his “I can fix it” attitude! He is considered a Hero to his five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. 

     Susan brings a fun-loving nature to her family and community. Nana Susie, known by most, has opened her home to many friends and relatives and makes it her mission to ensure everyone is fed! Her support has been instrumental in the success of the business. 

      If not working, you can find Gary and Sue engaged in projects of all kinds.

     Together, Gary and Sue have shaped a legacy built on professional dedication and heartfelt family values that we strive to uphold. 

     Kasey and Jaynee have been lifelong residents of Antrim County. Kasey grew up in Bellaire, Michigan and Jaynee, the daughter of Ron and Holly Mortensen, grew up in Central Lake, Michigan.

     Shortly after marrying Jaynee in 2017, Kasey graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science and joined our family business as a Licensed Funeral Director in 2018. Kasey is known for his kind words, tender heart, and engaging personality.  His dedication to his work at Mortensen Funeral Homes reflects his genuine care for the families he serves. Outside of work, Kasey, as the youngest of four siblings, is a dedicated son, brother, and uncle. He also enjoys fishing, hunting, and playing golf.

     Jaynee, who works diligently in the office at Mortensen Funeral Homes, has been immersed in the funeral industry from a young age. She enjoys working with her close-knit family and comforting others during their times of need. Jaynee enjoys and has a great love for her family, cooking, Jesus, and coffee.

     Together, Jaynee and Kasey are devoted parents to their four children, Mary Kaye, Teddy John, Joanna Lou, and Alvin Lee. They find joy in family activities like going to the park and enjoying cozy bonfire nights. Their shared values and commitment to their community make them a cherished part of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

     Isaac and Claudia met in 2017 while they were both attending Ridgewater College in Claudia’s home state of Minnesota. They married in the Fall of 2019, prior to Isaac graduating from Worsham College of Mortuary Science and joining the funeral home business in 2020 as a Licensed Funeral Director.

     Isaac’s passion for the business, warm smile and giving heart has made him loved by families near and far. He is a cherished member of our team and his warmth and generosity extend to his family and friends. While he’s not working, Isaac enjoys hunting, snowmobiling, watching sports, and spending time with his family and friends.

     Claudia is a faith-filled devoted wife, mother, and friend who finds fulfillment in helping others. She enjoys visiting her family in Minnesota, being outside with her sons, and volunteering her time. She is a new business owner and strives to conquer each day with her go-getter attitude. 

     Together, Isaac and Claudia are loving parents to their three sons, Knox Michael, Reid Kenneth, and Cade Samuel, who bring immense joy to their lives. The two also cherish their family and friendships deeply and make an effort to be there for those they care about.

     Gavin, along with his siblings, was raised in Central Lake where he attended Central Lake High School. He pursued further education at Northern Michigan University and has since returned home ready to serve the community. Growing up around the funeral home environment Gavin has developed a deep sense of dedication, compassion, and empathy.   

     Mirroring the values and work ethic of his Papa Gary, Gavin's role at Mortensen Funeral Homes includes a diverse array of responsibilities, from cemetery work, building maintenance to being a funeral director apprentice. He is a firm believer in the value of hard work and followed the family tradition of attending Worsham College of Mortuary Science graduating in December of 2025. 

     Outside of work, Gavin is an innate problem-solver who enjoys lending a helping hand and tackling innovative projects. He makes the most of every moment and is always seeking new adventures. On sunny days you can find him boating, fishing, or golfing and on the snowy days you can find him on the ski-slope. Gavin also enjoys spending quality time with his friends and family.

    Gavin married the love of his life, Emily Myler, in September 2025. In early summer 2026, they welcomed precious twins, Clyde and Carter Ann. That same year, they expanded their professional pursuits by carrying on his grandparents' legacy as owners and operators of Snug Harbor Cabins on Intermediate Lake. 

Andy grew up and graduated from Charlevoix High School.

He started working at the funeral home in the fall of 2015 for the Winchester Funeral Home and has continued to be a dedicated and valued employee here at Mortensen Funeral Homes.

He is a loving husband to Stacy and father to Morgan, Samuel (Mary), and Spencer. In his free time, Andy enjoys camping and watching football.  He also enjoys spending time with his family. 

Mike and Sharon Velding are familiar, caring faces in our community. After retiring from their careers as Central Lake school teachers, they now assist families through the recovery process. Their kindness and compassion shine through in everything they do. They believe every family grieving the loss of a loved one deserves to be met with tenderness, dignity, and genuine care.

Family means the world to them, and they are especially proud of their three daughters, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Mike and Sharon joined our team in April 2023, and the story still makes us smile. When Gary and Ron found themselves swamped at Easter, they asked Sharon at church whether Mike might be looking for a job. She said yes—and welcoming them to our team has truly been one of the best decisions we’ve made.

For many years, Mike and Sharon have generously volunteered with the fire and rescue departments throughout the Torch Lake and Central Lake areas. Serving others has always been close to their hearts, and we are grateful that they continue to care for our communities—now in a new and meaningful way!