Peterborough's Most Beautiful Cemeteries and Funeral Home

Our Staff

At time of need, or when preparing a pre-arrangement plan, our service team is committed to providing you and your loved ones with the personalized, unique and meaningful funeral and cemetery services that you desire, in our modern facilities and within our tranquil grounds.

James Belk

President & CEO, Little Lake Cemetery Company

James became a licensed funeral director in 2004 and worked in various funeral homes in the GTA and Peterborough. In 2011, James joined the team at Little Lake Cemetery and in 2012 became the Manager of Funeral Services. In 2022, James became the President & CEO of Little Lake Cemetery.

As President/CEO, James reports directly to the Volunteer Board of Directors on the business operations of Little Lake Cemetery, Highland Park Cemetery & Crematorium, Highland Park Funeral Centre, Lakeland Funeral & Cremation Centre and Mill Valley Funeral & Cremation Centre

James and his wife, Christina have two beautiful daughters, Emma and Katie and reside just outside of Peterborough in Otonabee.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email:

Jennie Ireland

Director of Operations, Little Lake Cemetery Company

Jennie joined Little Lake Cemetery Company in the spring of 2023 in the area of Human Resources. She quickly became a valuable part of the team, immersing herself in all the elements of our operations. In the spring of 2024, Jennie was promoted to the role of Director of Operations for all locations.

Jennie was a Hockey Mom Ambassador for the Peterborough Petes "Pink in the Rink" fundraising initiative for PRHC, and she regularly participates in events like the annual Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival that benefit the hospital.

Jennie lives in Peterborough with her son, Liam. In her time off in the summer months, you will find her at her trailer enjoying the outdoors.

Jeff Wakeford

Manager, Cemetery Services

With over 25 years of experience at Little Lake Cemetery Co., Jeff delivers compassion and expertise with every family he serves. Jeff is responsible for all activities and staff relating to Little Lake Cemetery, Highland Park Cemetery and Highland Park Crematorium.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email:

Robin Heffernan

Client Services Manager

Robin has held a variety of positions with Little Lake Cemetery over the past many years. Since

January 2019 Robin has been providing cemetery guidance, sales and support for the full range of

cemetery products to families at both time of need, as well as for preneed planning.

In addition, Robin meets with the executor(s)/next of kin, providing timely completion of government

and related forms and notices, as well as valuable guidance on the steps involved in settling a loved

one’s affairs.

Jordan Buck

Grounds Manager, Little Lake Cemetery & Highland Park Cemetery

Jordan started as a student with Little Lake Cemetery Company while attending Trent University.

Ashley McNamara

Funeral Director & Location Manager, Highland Park Funeral Centre

Ashley graduated from Humber College Funeral Services Program in 2011. Ashley joined our team in 2020. She is proud to be part of the Little Lake Cemetery Company and has a special connection because her father (owner of Beavermead Construction) was the general contractor of our Highland Park Funeral Centre.

Ashley was born and raised in Peterborough and together with her husband Shawn, they have 2 beautiful children, Jonathan, 10 and Anna, 8.

When Ashley is not working, she is attending her children’s various sporting events, helping out at the family business Lakeview Bowl, volunteering on the Catholic Parent Council at her children’s school or participating in the 100 Women Peterborough and the Women's Business Network.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email:

Joe Farace

Funeral Director, Highland Park Funeral Centre

Joe, a licensed Funeral Director since 1999 in Peterborough, continues to provide guidance and support to the families we serve. Joe's outgoing personality allows families to be comforted in a friendly atmosphere while personalizing a loved one's tribute or service.

Joe is also deeply involved in his community. He is a Member of the Knights of Columbus, Faithful Navigator of the 4th Degree, and coach and player in local soccer. Joe is married to Kristen and is the proud father of Mya, Molly and Anthony.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email:

Ed Burke

Funeral Director, Highland Park Funeral Centre

Ed, a licensed funeral director since 1991, brings a wealth of experience and passion while serving the families at Highland Park Funeral Centre. His commitment and dedication in all areas ensures a family's personalized needs are followed through in a dignified and respectful manner.

Ed was born and raised in Peterborough and together with his wife Jan they have two daughters. He is an active parishioner in Sacred Heart Church and sits on various diocesan committees.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email:

Kristen Stanley Evans

Funeral Director, Highland Park Funeral Centre

Kristen graduated from Humber College Funeral Services Program in 2015, and has been a part of our team since then.

With a keen eye for layout and design, Kristen has gained a reputation for excellence and for

creating highly personalized services for the families she serves.

Kristen, along with her husband Matt, have a beautiful daughter, Elsie and is expecting twins summer of 2022.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email:

Danny Bronson

Family Services Coordinator, Cemetery Division

Well known within the Peterborough area for his musical talent and community involvement, Danny Bronson brings to Little Lake Cemetery years of experience in working closely with families in providing exceptional service at important life moments.

At a family's direct request, Danny will add his renowned musical talents to a celebration of life, memorial or funeral service.

Telephone: 1-705-745-6984

Email: