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Melinda Van Waus, BS, CTBS, CFSP

Melinda Van Waus, BS, CTBS, CFSP

Lead Partner Liaison

Melinda received her Mortuary Science degree from the University of Minnesota. Following graduation, Melinda was employed by the Benson Funeral Home before transitioning to her role at LifeSource where she has been instrumental in many areas of the organization since 2005. One of those areas was as a Surgical Recovery Technician, recovering tissue from donors who have so generously given the gift of life. Melinda is active on several committees within the organization which help provide opportunities of improvement with the goal for enhanced performance, greater customer and partner relationships while meeting the needs of those we serve. Melinda primarily oversees LifeSource’s relationship with Medical Examiner/Coroner offices, Funeral Service Providers and Hospice facilities.  She is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in Minnesota. Melinda continues to provide part-time service to local funeral homes and is an active member of the Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota Funeral Director Associations; the Arrowhead Funeral Directors Association; a Certified Tissue Bank Specialist; and a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner which is the highest professional designation you can achieve in funeral service.


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  • Developing a Donation Champion Funeral Home at your Recovery Agency (Group)
    Contains 3 Component(s)

    You work with many funeral providers, some that are supportive and a few that you might have to work to keep that smile on your face. In this webinar, you will hear about ways to elevate and engage the funeral providers about donation so they are just as comfortable sharing the message of a DMV, Drivers Ed class or a hospital!

  • Embalming Practices: From Donation to Burial
    Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits

    The Donate Life America Funeral Services Committee and the Funeral Liaisons from LifeSource will be presenting embalming and restorative techniques post tissue recovery. The session will include practical and innovative ideas on the care of a tissue donor and necessary supplies to provide to the funeral home. You will also learn the importance of surgical technique during the recovery and how it can impact the embalming process. This session aims to share the concerns of the funeral service partners and ways to improve the relationship through education, training, and support.​

  • Embalming Practices: From Donation to Burial (Group)
    Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits

    The Donate Life America Funeral Services Committee and the Funeral Liaisons from LifeSource will be presenting embalming and restorative techniques post tissue recovery. The session will include practical and innovative ideas on the care of a tissue donor and necessary supplies to provide to the funeral home. You will also learn the importance of surgical technique during the recovery and how it can impact the embalming process. This session aims to share the concerns of the funeral service partners and ways to improve the relationship through education, training, and support.​