Douch Family company director to retire after 45 years
In 1999, Albert Marsh became part of the Douch Family Funerals network, where Stretch continued as a funeral director and branch manager
Douch Family Funerals has announced that company director Jonathan Stretch is preparing to retire from his role after 45 years in the funeral service industry.
Stretch’s career began at age 15 working at his family’s business, Albert Marsh Funeral Directors in Wareham.
In 1999, Albert Marsh became part of the Douch Family Funerals network, where Stretch continued as a funeral director and branch manager.
During his time working for the Douch family, Stretch played an integral role in launching The Dorset Funeral Plan, a pre-paid funeral plan initiated by the group that it claims was launched “long before such products became commonplace among funeral service providers”.
In addition, Stretch was also credited for the creation of ceremony rooms across multiple branches of Douch Family Funeral Directors, including the Lesley Shand branches in Blandford and Corfe Mullen, and A E Jolliffe and Son in Ferndown.
Stretch said: “Introducing The Dorset Funeral Plan was about providing peace of mind and financial security for families during their most challenging times. It’s been rewarding to see how this initiative has helped so many people plan ahead and ease the burden on their loved ones.”
“Creating these ceremony rooms was about more than just expanding our facilities; it was about enhancing our ability to meet the needs of every family we serve, providing them with a space that feels personal and respectful.”
Nick Douch, managing director of Douch Family Funerals, said: “Jonathan’s integration into the Douch Family Funeral Directors was seamless. His dedication to service excellence and his innovative spirit have been pivotal in our growth and success.
“He has been a cornerstone of our organisation, setting standards of excellence and compassion that resonate throughout our services.”
He added: “Jonathan’s impact on our company and the funeral service industry is immeasurable. As we bid him farewell, we do so with deep gratitude for his years of service and the profound difference he has made in the lives of so many”.
