Angie Aquino: A 45-Year Career at MPG

Angie Aquino’s remarkable career with Mount Pleasant Group (MPG) began at 17, when she was a high school student volunteering at a local hospital. While still in school, she took on a part-time job at Prospect Cemetery as a general assistant—a role that grew into regular work throughout university as she pursued her Office and Administrative Studies degree at what is now Toronto Metropolitan University. Shortly after graduating, Angie accepted a full-time role as Executive Assistant to the Development Manager.

“I’d planned to go into teaching, but since I was preparing to get married, the opportunity to work full-time came at the perfect time,” said Angie, who, over her 45-year career at MPG, has held a variety of roles, leading to her current position as President of Canadian Memorial Services, which she has held since 2013. “I thought I’d stay three to five years. It didn’t quite work out that way! The beauty is that my career has been filled with new challenges and fresh roles, so I’ve never felt like I had reached a plateau. There has always been something more to accomplish.”
While she never imagined herself in the death care industry, Angie has found it deeply fulfilling.

“In this field, you form real connections—with the families, with our team. I loved being in the field, forming bonds with the people we serve. Some families even bring cookies to thank us for the help we provide. People sometimes just need someone to talk to, and those connections are so rewarding,” she said.
Angie remains deeply aligned with the values of both Canadian Memorial Services and MPG. Having worked in both cemetery and funeral services, she reflects on her career with pride, feeling that her journey has come full circle. Yet, she’s still not done. Overcoming challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and her dedication for continuously learning new things have fueled her resolve and commitment to the work.

“Even after 45 years, I still don’t know everything,” said Angie. “I love that we continue to evolve as a service organization, that there’s always more to learn and that I can pass on what I know to others. It’s refreshing, and I’m incredibly grateful for the mentors who supported me along the way.”