About Us
Meet the Team
We believe that prioritizing the well-being of our local community and the health of our planet go hand in hand.
Serena Trexler
Renew is led by Serena Trexler, a licensed funeral director, graduate of Mt. Hood's Funeral Service Education Program, and native Oregonian.
Inspired by her own experience with the NOR process following the passing of her dog, Thor, Serena sought to make NOR accessible to all Oregonians.
"I believe everyone should have the option to choose an environmentally responsible, meaningful farewell. We provide a way for families to honor their loved ones while also giving back to the planet."
Why Are We the Right Choice?
We are a small, locally owned business that works closely with the communities we serve. Each member of our staff is passionate about the importance of personalized, sustainable and equitable funeral choices.
Our mission is to complement your funeral practice by providing every family with a holistic experience that honors their loved one, respects their grieving process, and aligns with their beliefs.
Why Does NOR Matter?
Choosing natural organic reduction helps restore the environment by promoting new life. Our process offers a sustainable alternative to traditional burial or flame cremation.
For context, the United States dedicates 1.5 million acres of land for cemeteries across the continent. Additionally, burials put 20 million board feet of hardwood and 16 million tons of concrete into the ground every year. This includes 4.3 million gallons of embalming fluid, which can seep into the water table and contaminate drinking water.
One cremation uses 500 gallons of natural gas and can release 600 pounds of carbon dioxide into the air. That’s the same amount of emissions as two tanks of gas in an average sized car.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Our focus on families guides everything we do. We conduct our services with the highest level of integrity and respect for the loved ones entrusted to our care and the families who celebrate their memory.
Each natural organic reduction service is performed with tender care, preserving the dignity and memory of the deceased.
Sources
1. Green Burial Council - Embalming Chemicals
2. Funeral Consumers Alliance - Embalming FAQ
3. National Geographic - The Surprising Environmental Cost of Cremation and Burials
4. Scientific American - Are Burials Good for the Environment?