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Rodriguez, who has more than two decades of experience in working at funeral homes, opened his business at 117 South St. in Danbury in November at the site of a former Dunkin' Donuts. The difference between what he offers compared with his competitors is striking.
Rodriguez offers a bright building with the latest technological innovations. In addition, he classifies his services as a “celebration to the life that they lived.” He also said his rates are 25 percent less than any other funeral home in Danbury.
Perhaps Rodriguez’ most striking change is the use of technology in his services. He offers flat screen televisions on the walls where people can upload photos through their mobile devices. He also offers Wi-Fi and will be installing video cameras inside the “celebration room” for Skyping.
“We will play any song you want,’’ Rodriguez said. “People won’t have to provide a CD.”
Rodriguez also changed the approach to services. The focus is more celebratory, and less depressing. Certainly there are tears and reverence, but there are also smiles and warmth.
“People don’t want to go to a funeral home,’’ he said. “We had one recently where a kid hooked up his iPhone to the system and was playing Donna Summer. People were actually dancing. It’s really a life celebration facility.”
The business opened in a building that formerly housed a Dunkin’ Donuts. It is also close to many Hispanic neighborhoods, and the nearby community has welcomed his business, he said.
Rodriguez said his clients also appreciate his affordability, which was a major impetus for him to start the business.
“I don’t have this big, big building with tremendous overhead costs,’’ he said. "I do everything myself for now. If you’re so busy that customer service goes down, you can’t take care of the people the way you should.”
Danbury Memorial & Cremation Services offers life celebrations, memorial services, cremations and traditional funerals. The business also offers pre-paid plan options that won’t escalate in cost. For more information, click here to visit the company website or contact Rodriguez at 203-616-5128.
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