Lifting the Burden: Essential Mortuary Lift Solutions
Looking for information about mortuary lift solutions? Here's what you need to know:
- Company: Mortuary Lift Company - a woman-owned small business based in Cedar Rapids, IA
- Experience: Over 50 years providing body lifts to funeral homes worldwide
- Flagship Product: Ultimate 1000 Lift™ – handles up to 1000 lbs
- Other Products: The Stepper™ (375 lb capacity), Tug-Along™ winch, custom track systems
- Contact: Contact American Mortuary Coolers for quotes and consultations
In today's funeral industry, efficiency and safety aren't just buzzwords—they're essential for both business success and staff wellbeing. Quality mortuary lift equipment offers specialized lifting solutions designed specifically for funeral homes, morgues, and hospitals that handle the unique challenges of casket and body transfer. These solutions not only protect your staff from workplace injuries but also streamline operations in ways that can significantly impact your bottom line.
The physical toll of manual lifting in funeral service is substantial. With caskets and bodies potentially weighing hundreds of pounds, every transfer represents a risk to your team's health and your business's liability exposure. Modern mortuary lift systems eliminate this risk while allowing operations to continue smoothly with fewer staff members.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, a national-level supplier specializing in mortuary equipment including lift systems and custom cooler solutions for funeral homes across America. After evaluating numerous lift systems throughout my career, I've found that the engineering and durability of quality mortuary lift products consistently meet the demanding needs of funeral professionals.
Mortuary equipment terms to learn:
Why Mortuary Lifts Matter
The importance of proper lifting equipment in funeral homes cannot be overstated. According to workplace safety data, back injuries are among the most common workplace injuries, with manual lifting being a primary cause. In the funeral industry, where staff regularly handle weights far exceeding recommended lifting limits, this risk is amplified.
Implementing proper lifting equipment provides three critical benefits:
- Injury Reduction: By eliminating manual lifting of heavy caskets and bodies, mortuary lifts dramatically reduce the risk of back, shoulder, and neck injuries among staff.
- Productivity Gains: With proper lifting equipment, tasks that previously required 2-4 staff members can often be accomplished by a single person, allowing your team to work more efficiently.
- OSHA Compliance: Funeral homes are subject to the same workplace safety regulations as other businesses. Using proper lifting equipment helps ensure compliance with OSHA standards for safe lifting practices.
As one funeral director from Illinois noted, "After installing the Ultimate 1000 Lift, our workers' compensation claims dropped to zero for lifting-related injuries. The investment paid for itself within the first year."
Mortuary Lift Solutions: Brand Snapshot & History
Behind quality mortuary lift solutions stands a remarkable story of American ingenuity and dedication. For over 50 years, this woman-owned small business has been quietly revolutionizing how funeral homes handle their most physically demanding tasks. Based in the heartland of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the company has grown from humble beginnings into a trusted name that funeral professionals worldwide depend on daily.
What makes these specialized mortuary lift solutions special isn't just their equipment—it's their deep understanding of funeral service challenges. Their pioneering "All-in-One Lifting™" approach wasn't developed in a corporate boardroom, but through countless conversations with funeral directors who needed better solutions for their teams and facilities.
"I remember when we installed our first Ultimate 1000 Lift back in 2005," shares Michael, a third-generation funeral director from Pennsylvania. "The rep who came out had actually worked in a funeral home before joining the company. That made all the difference—she understood exactly what we needed before we even explained it fully."
Despite growing into a globally recognized brand with installations across America and beyond, the company maintains that small-town touch. When you work with American Mortuary Coolers to source these solutions, you'll speak with someone who understands the funeral industry—not a rotating cast of sales representatives reading from scripts.
Milestones & Industry Standing
The journey of mortuary lift solutions through the funeral industry has been marked by significant achievements that reflect their commitment to the profession:
The flagship Ultimate 1000 Lift™ has become the standard against which other mortuary lifts are measured, with thousands in service across the country. The innovation didn't stop there—their development of customizable track systems revolutionized how prep rooms could be configured for maximum efficiency and safety.
Industry recognition has followed this dedication to quality, with numerous awards highlighting their contributions to workplace safety and ergonomics. Perhaps most telling is how many funeral homes are now purchasing their second or third generation of quality mortuary lift equipment, often replacing units that served faithfully for 20+ years.
Mortuary Lift Product Family at a Glance
Today's mortuary lift solutions offer a comprehensive family of products designed to work seamlessly together:
The Ultimate 1000 Lift™ remains their cornerstone product—a powerhouse capable of safely handling up to 1000 pounds with precision and dignity. Its dual-mast design provides stability that single-post lifts simply can't match.
For the unique challenges of multi-story buildings, The Stepper™ electric stair-climbing system safely moves remains up and down stairs with its 375-pound capacity, eliminating one of the most dangerous tasks in funeral service.
The ingenious Tug-Along™ portable winch system has transformed vehicle loading and unloading, allowing a single person to manage tasks that once required multiple staff members.
Complementing these portable units, custom track systems can be ceiling-mounted or freestanding, creating efficient workflows throughout preparation areas. And to complete the preparation room ecosystem, body coolers integrate perfectly with lifting systems for seamless transfers.
Every product reflects a deep understanding that in funeral service, equipment isn't just about specifications—it's about honoring lives while protecting those who serve.
Deep Dive into the Ultimate 1000™ Casket & Body Lift
When it comes to the heart and soul of our featured mortuary lift line, nothing quite stands out like the flagship Ultimate 1000™. This isn't just any lift – it's the trusted workhorse that funeral professionals across the country have come to rely on day in and day out.
With an impressive 1000-pound capacity, this powerhouse handles everything from standard transfers to those challenging situations that keep funeral directors up at night. What makes the Ultimate 1000™ special is that it wasn't designed by engineers who've never set foot in a prep room – it was crafted specifically for mortuary applications with input from actual funeral professionals.
The dual-mast design isn't just about looks – it provides rock-solid stability when you're transferring precious cargo. I've watched funeral directors breathe sighs of relief when they realize they can manage these transfers with the simple press of a button on the remote control, rather than calling in additional staff or risking injury.
One feature funeral professionals particularly appreciate is the integrated load scale. As cremation rates continue to climb, knowing the exact weight of remains has become increasingly important for meeting crematory requirements – and this built-in feature eliminates the guesswork and the need for separate equipment.
The thoughtfully designed safety straps deserve special mention too. Unlike generic lifting equipment, these were created specifically for securing caskets and body trays, using a multi-point sling system that keeps everything secure and dignified during transfers.
| Feature | Ultimate 1000 Lift | Generic Scissor Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 1000 lbs | Typically 500-750 lbs |
| Control System | Wireless remote | Manual hydraulic |
| Weight Measurement | Integrated load scale | Not available |
| Specialized Attachments | Multi-point sling system | Not available |
| Power Backup | Battery backup | Not available |
| Designed For | Mortuary-specific applications | General lifting |
| Warranty | Industry-leading coverage | Typically limited |
As a funeral director from Chicago shared with me, "We tried saving a few bucks with a general-purpose lift at first. Big mistake. The Ultimate 1000 actually understands what we do day-to-day. It's like comparing a Swiss Army knife to a surgeon's scalpel."
Key Technical Features of Ultimate 1000
The technical sophistication behind the Ultimate 1000™ is what truly sets it apart in the market. At its core, the electric winch system provides the muscle – delivering smooth, controlled movement that protects both the operator and the deceased. There's nothing jerky or unpredictable about how it handles – just reliable, dignified transfers every time.
The battery backup feature might seem like a small detail until you're in the middle of a transfer when the power goes out. This thoughtful addition ensures you're never left in a compromising position during critical moments – something that speaks to the manufacturer's deep understanding of the unpredictable nature of funeral service.
I've always been impressed by the swivel boom design that allows for precise positioning. Anyone who's ever tried to align a body with a prep table or casket knows that those final few inches matter tremendously – and this articulating boom makes those adjustments effortless.
Perhaps most importantly, the multi-point sling system was engineered specifically for handling human remains with the dignity and security they deserve. As one pathology department manager told me, "You can tell this equipment was designed by people who actually understand what we do. It's not just adapted from some other industry."
Efficiency & Safety Benefits
The impact of introducing an Ultimate 1000™ into your operation goes far beyond just making lifting easier. The efficiency gains are remarkable and measurable.
Funeral homes consistently report time savings of 15-20 minutes per transfer – which might not sound like much until you multiply it across dozens of cases each month. That recovered time can be reinvested in family care or allow your team to maintain quality service even during busy periods.
The staffing implications are significant too. With the Ultimate 1000™, tasks that traditionally required multiple staff members can now be safely performed by a single person. This reduced staffing requirement is particularly valuable in today's challenging hiring environment, where finding qualified funeral professionals has become increasingly difficult.
The financial impact on workers' compensation costs can't be overlooked. One multi-location funeral home shared that they saw a stunning 78% reduction in workers' comp claims after installing Ultimate 1000™ lifts throughout their locations. When you consider that a single back injury can cost tens of thousands in claims and increased premiums, the lift quickly pays for itself.
Perhaps most importantly, the lift transforms prep room workflow. As one embalmer explained to me with a smile, "I used to feel like an orchestra conductor trying to coordinate help for transfers. Now I can manage the entire preparation process independently – from cooler to prep table to casket – without constantly calling for backup."
For a deeper dive into how proper lifting equipment impacts workplace safety and insurance costs, check out our detailed analysis of lifting equipment and workers' compensation claims.
Specialized Equipment Beyond the Flagship Lift
While the Ultimate 1000™ is the workhorse of many funeral homes, the same product family offers several specialized solutions that address those tricky situations we all face in funeral service. Let's explore these problem-solvers that make everyday challenges much more manageable.
The Stepper™ Electric Stair-Climbing System
Remember the last time you and a colleague struggled to carry remains down a narrow, winding staircase? The Stepper™ was designed specifically to eliminate that stress. With a solid 375 lb capacity, this clever electric stair-climber essentially becomes your second pair of hands, allowing a single staff member to safely manage what used to require two or three people.
What makes The Stepper™ particularly practical is its portability. Weighing just 45 pounds, it's light enough to keep in your removal vehicle and deploy whenever those dreaded stairs appear. Its rechargeable battery system gives you enough power for multiple removals before needing a charge, and it handles various stair angles with surprising agility – from standard residential steps to those steeper historic staircases (though extremely tight spiral staircases might still pose a challenge).
As one funeral director from Maine told us with a smile, "I used to dread calls to those beautiful old Victorian houses with their narrow staircases. Now with The Stepper™, I actually volunteer for those removals. My back thanks me every day."
For a detailed comparison of how The Stepper™ stacks up against other options, check out our comprehensive guide to The Stepper.
The Tug-Along™ Casket & Gurney Winch
Loading and unloading remains from vehicles – especially when you're working alone – can be one of those quiet but significant injury risks we face daily. The Tug-Along™ tackles this challenge head-on with its impressive 1000 lb pulling capacity and smart wireless remote operation.
What I particularly appreciate about this system is how it temporarily mounts to most standard removal vehicles without permanent modifications. The wireless remote lets you position yourself wherever makes most sense during the loading process, giving you better visibility and control.
Here's a practical bonus many funeral directors don't realize: as equipment that removes barriers for workers, the Tug-Along™ may qualify for ADA tax credits of up to 50 % of the purchase price for eligible businesses. That's right – Uncle Sam might help pay for half of your new equipment!
A funeral director from Houston summed it up nicely: "The Tug-Along™ paid for itself the first month we had it. We're now handling the same number of calls with one fewer staff member on our removal team, and nobody's complaining about back pain anymore."
Custom Track & Gantry Solutions
For those looking to create a truly efficient preparation area, these custom track and gantry solutions extend your lifting capabilities throughout your workspace.
If you're in a historic building or leasing your space, their ceiling-less gantry systems provide full lifting functionality without requiring structural modifications. For those who can modify their facilities, monorail track systems allow lifts to travel smoothly between preparation areas, cooler rooms, and other spaces.
One of the most helpful services they offer is their "Draw Your Room" design consultation. Their team helps you plan optimal track configurations for your specific space, considering workflow patterns, ceiling structure, and future expansion needs.
A third-generation funeral director in Pennsylvania told us, "We've completely transformed how we work. With our custom track system, one person can now handle remains from arrival through preparation to casketing without a single manual lift. I wish my grandfather could see how much easier we have it now!"
For more insights on various hoist systems and how they can transform your funeral home operations, take a look at our essential guide to mortuary hoist lift systems.
Comparing mortuary lift products to Competitors
When you're comparing lifting solutions for your funeral home, it's like shopping for a vehicle – there's the economy option that'll get you from A to B, and then there's the vehicle built to last through thick and thin. The equipment highlighted here consistently falls into that second category.
I've spoken with countless funeral directors who initially went with cheaper alternatives only to find themselves replacing equipment far sooner than expected. What sets these products apart isn't flashy marketing – it's substance.
Their commitment to quality materials is immediately evident when you handle the equipment. While some competitors cut corners with lightweight components to offer a lower price tag, this manufacturer uses commercial-grade materials built to withstand the daily demands of busy funeral homes. As one director in Michigan told me, "You can feel the difference the first time you use it."
The innovation factor can't be overlooked either. After five decades focused exclusively on mortuary applications, the equipment reflects a deep understanding of funeral service needs. Those specialized sling systems and integrated load scales aren't random add-ons – they're solutions to real problems funeral professionals face daily.
Yes, these products often require a higher initial investment. But as one of my customers in Tennessee explained, "My first lift served us for 22 years before we upgraded – not because it failed, but because we wanted the newer features. That's value you can't measure on a price tag alone."
Their warranty coverage also exceeds industry standards, reflecting confidence in their products. And when it comes to support resources, an extensive library of guides and technical materials means help is always at hand, even years after purchase.
For those interested in the latest research on ergonomic lifting in funeral service, Batesville's family resources offers valuable insights.
Customization & Pricing Flexibility
Not every funeral home has the same needs – or the same budget. The manufacturer gets this reality and offers solutions that make their equipment accessible to operations of all sizes.
Want your lift to match your funeral home's décor? Their color options let you customize the appearance to blend seamlessly with your facilities. Starting with a tighter budget? The modular design approach means you can begin with basic functionality and add features like load scales or wireless remotes as finances allow.
I've helped many smaller funeral homes access this equipment through financing options that transform a significant upfront investment into manageable monthly payments. And don't forget about potential ADA tax credits – many of these products qualify, which can substantially reduce the effective cost for eligible businesses.
A funeral director in Georgia shared with me, "When we factored in the ADA credit and reduced workers' comp premiums, the monthly cost actually made more financial sense than continuing without proper equipment."
Support, Manuals & Maintenance Resources
Where this manufacturer truly shines compared to competitors is their comprehensive support throughout the equipment lifecycle.
Their online resource portal is a treasure trove of detailed manuals, maintenance guides, and troubleshooting resources. For funeral homes with diverse staff, the availability of multilingual catalogs in English, Spanish, and French removes potential communication barriers.
I particularly appreciate their yearly maintenance checklists that help my customers keep their equipment in top condition. When parts eventually need replacement after years of service, their replacement parts store makes ordering authentic components straightforward.
A prep room manager in Oregon told me, "Their support resources saved us countless times. When we needed to replace a strap after years of use, the detailed instructions made it a simple 15-minute job instead of a frustrating day waiting for a service call."
For those considering new equipment purchases, I recommend reviewing our ultimate buying guide for mortuary lifting equipment to help steer your options.
Typical Use Cases & Environments
When you invest in lifting equipment from this long-established manufacturer, you're joining thousands of death-care professionals who've finded how these specialized tools transform their daily operations. These systems aren't just found in one type of facility – they've become essential workhorses across the entire spectrum of death care.
Funeral homes of every size have acceptd these lifting solutions. Whether you're running a small family operation that's been serving your community for generations or managing multiple locations across a region, the safety and efficiency benefits remain the same. From the prep room to the visitation area and out on removals, these systems help your team work smarter, not harder.
Hospital morgues face unique challenges with patient transfers and limited staffing. That's why so many medical facilities have integrated this equipment into their workflows. As one hospital morgue supervisor told us, "Having reliable lifting equipment means we can maintain dignity in transfers while protecting our staff from injury – even during the busiest times."
University anatomy labs entrust these systems with the careful handling of anatomical donations. "When someone has made the profound decision to donate their body to science, we owe them the utmost care and respect," explained a university lab director. "The reliability of these systems is crucial when working with donated remains. We need equipment that works flawlessly every time."
Coroners and medical examiners have unique requirements for forensic applications. The precision and stability of this lifting equipment provides the control needed for these specialized environments where evidence preservation and documentation are paramount.
Removal vehicles equipped with solutions like the Tug-Along™ extend safety benefits beyond the facility walls. This mobility means your team maintains the same safety standards whether they're working in your prep room or responding to a call at a private residence.
Case Studies & Testimonials
Real-world examples speak volumes about the impact these lifting solutions have on funeral operations. Let me share a few stories from professionals just like you:
A funeral home in the Midwest received a call that many directors dread – a 580-pound decedent needed to be removed from a third-floor apartment with a narrow staircase. Rather than scrambling to find additional staff or risking injury, their director used The Stepper™ to safely transport the remains down the stairs without any assistance. What could have been a logistical nightmare became a manageable situation handled with dignity and care.
The staffing impact can be substantial too. One multi-location funeral home group implemented Ultimate 1000™ lifts and track systems throughout their facilities and saw immediate results. Within just six months, they reduced their staffing requirements by one full-time position per location while maintaining their high service standards. This translated to annual savings exceeding $250,000 across their organization – money they reinvested in other aspects of their business.
Perhaps most compelling are the injury prevention stories. A large funeral home that had been averaging 2-3 back injury claims annually made the decision to install a comprehensive lifting system. The results? In the five years following installation, they recorded zero lifting-related injuries. This perfect safety record led to a 22 % reduction in their workers' compensation premiums.
"The investment in proper lifting equipment was the best business decision we've made in 20 years," one funeral director shared. "The staff health benefits alone would justify it, but the operational efficiencies have transformed our business."
These stories reflect what we see every day at American Mortuary Coolers – smart investments in the right equipment don't just solve immediate problems; they create ripple effects of positive change throughout your entire operation.
How to Order Mortuary Lift Solutions
Placing an order for lifting equipment shouldn't be complicated, and the process has been streamlined to make it as straightforward as possible. As someone who's helped many funeral directors steer this process, I can walk you through exactly what to expect.
Start by reaching out directly to American Mortuary Coolers, and we can help coordinate your order to ensure your new lift equipment perfectly complements your cooler systems. We'll make sure you're in good hands throughout the process.
One of the most helpful services offered is the "Draw Your Room" consultation. It's exactly what it sounds like – you sketch your preparation room layout (don't worry, it doesn't have to be artistic!), and our team uses this to recommend the perfect track configuration for your space. I've seen this simple step save funeral homes thousands in unnecessary equipment.
After submitting your initial information, you'll have a phone consultation with our specialists. This is where the magic happens – these folks really understand funeral operations and can spot opportunities you might miss. As one Wisconsin funeral director told me, "They suggested a track configuration I never would have thought of that let us use a single lift between our prep room and cooler room. Genius!"
American Mortuary Coolers ships equipment nationwide throughout the contiguous 48 states, with typical delivery times ranging from 2-4 weeks depending on customization needs. Every product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage that you can easily register online to protect your investment.
If budget constraints are a concern, don't let that stop you from exploring options. Various financing packages are available, and when combined with potential ADA tax credits, the monthly cost often ends up being surprisingly manageable. I've seen many funeral homes find they could afford much more comprehensive systems than they initially thought possible.
Quick Checklist Before You Buy
Before finalizing your order, take a moment to consider these essential factors:
Weight Requirements – Think about both your typical cases and those exceptional situations. The most common mistake I see is purchasing a lift with just enough capacity for average needs, only to struggle with heavier cases.
Ceiling Height and Structure – For track systems, your ceiling height and structural support are critical factors. Have these measurements ready during your consultation.
Power Access – Verify you have appropriate electrical outlets where the equipment will be used, particularly for charging stations.
Staff Training – Plan time for your team to learn the new equipment. While these systems are designed to be intuitive, proper training ensures you get the most value from your investment.
Installation Timeline – Allow adequate time in your schedule, especially if you're planning a track system that requires installation. Most stand-alone units are operational within hours of delivery, but track systems typically need 1-2 days for proper setup.
I always remind our clients at American Mortuary Coolers that thorough planning before purchase prevents headaches after installation. The small investment of time upfront to fully assess your needs will pay dividends for years to come in the form of a lifting system that perfectly matches your operation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mortuary Lifting Solutions
What is the load capacity of the Ultimate 1000?
When funeral directors ask me about the Ultimate 1000™ Lift, I always emphasize its impressive 1000-pound capacity. This isn't just a number on paper—it's real-world capability that handles everything from standard cases to the most challenging bariatric situations.
What really impresses my customers is how the Ultimate 1000™ maintains the same smooth, controlled motion whether you're lifting 200 pounds or maxing out its full capacity. There's no jerking or struggling with heavier loads, which matters tremendously when handling remains with dignity and respect.
If you opt for a model with the integrated load scale (which I highly recommend), you'll get accurate weight measurements up to the full capacity. This feature has become increasingly valuable as cremation rates rise and proper documentation becomes more critical. Many of our clients tell me this scale functionality alone justifies the investment, especially for crematory operations with strict weight limits.
Can the Stepper™ be used on spiral staircases?
The spiral staircase question comes up frequently, and the honest answer is: it depends on the specific staircase. The Stepper™ can indeed steer many spiral staircases, but there are practical limitations you should be aware of.
Generally speaking, if your spiral staircase has treads wider than 26 inches at their narrowest point, The Stepper™ will likely work well. The challenges come with extremely tight spirals, especially those with limited headroom or very narrow treads. You'll also need adequate landing space at both the top and bottom of the stairs for safe operation.
I've worked with several funeral homes facing this exact situation. When in doubt, our team at American Mortuary Coolers is incredibly helpful—we can review photos or measurements of your specific staircase and give you an honest assessment. One smart approach I've seen: some of my clients keep a portable ramp system as backup for those rare locations with staircases too challenging even for The Stepper™.
What maintenance is required annually?
I'm always relieved to tell funeral directors that quality mortuary lift equipment needs minimal maintenance—these systems are designed understanding that funeral professionals have enough on their plates already.
That said, a simple annual maintenance routine will significantly extend the life of your investment. The most critical check is inspecting all lifting straps for any signs of wear or fraying—this is your primary safety system, so don't skip this step. For equipment with battery backup, test the functionality at least annually and recharge or replace batteries as needed.
Moving parts need occasional lubrication according to the maintenance manual (which is refreshingly clear and straightforward). I also recommend performing a test lift at various weights once a year to ensure everything operates smoothly throughout the entire weight range. Don't forget to check remote controls and replace their batteries regularly.
What I appreciate most about quality mortuary lift equipment is that most maintenance can be handled by your existing staff without special tools or training. Detailed, easy-to-follow checklists are provided for each product. That said, many of my clients find value in scheduling a professional inspection annually to complement their regular maintenance—think of it as cheap insurance for equipment you rely on daily.
Conclusion
After spending years working with funeral homes across the country, I've seen how the right equipment transforms a business. Quality mortuary lifting solutions aren't just metal and motors—they're game-changers for the hardworking professionals who care for the deceased and their families every day.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've watched our clients pair these lifting systems with our custom coolers to create preparation rooms that work smarter, not harder. The results speak for themselves: healthier staff, smoother operations, and ultimately, better service for families during their most difficult moments.
When you invest in quality lifting equipment, you're really investing in your people. In today's challenging labor market, helping your team accomplish more with less physical strain isn't just kind—it's smart business. The reduced workers' compensation claims alone often justify the investment within the first year or two.
I always recommend looking at your funeral home as a complete system. Your coolers, your lifts, your preparation equipment—they should work together like a well-rehearsed team. That's why we take time to understand how all these pieces fit together when designing custom solutions for our clients. Quality mortuary lift equipment integrates beautifully with our cooling systems, creating a seamless workflow from removal to final preparation.
The funeral profession faces unique challenges that most equipment manufacturers simply don't understand. There's real value in working with companies like American Mortuary Coolers that specialize exclusively in funeral service. We speak your language, understand your challenges, and design solutions specifically for your needs.
If you're considering how custom cooling solutions might complement your lifting equipment, I encourage you to explore our detailed guide to mortuary coolers. Or better yet, reach out through our website—we love talking shop with fellow funeral professionals.
At the end of the day, the right equipment doesn't just make our work easier—it allows us to focus more on what truly matters: providing dignified, compassionate care to the families who place their trust in us. By investing in safety-first, ROI-driven solutions, you're creating a foundation for exceptional service that will serve your funeral home for decades to come.