About Us

When I was a child, my mother taught classes on Death and Dying. She would often talk to me about how death is an important part of life and how various cultures have different rituals and burial rights. I found her openness on the topic refreshing. Now that I have a child of my own I have been thinking a great deal about the importance of ritual in our lives. How the loss and burial of a loved one is such an important and fragile time in life, and how green burial, lends itself to a more natural grieving process. From this inspiration, I started Portland Natural Casket Company for three principal reasons.

Firstly, I wanted to spend my days doing something that I believe in: the green burial movement, and the changes it is striving to make.

Secondly, I have always had a passion for woodworking, and fabrication. I have always enjoyed building functional items-- furniture, shelving, signage. From custom remodels, both private and commercial, to sculpture, garden art, and fencing, I have worked as a metal and woodworker for over 15 years.

Lastly, I believe that a local equitable economy is a more sustainable one. I am a strong supporter of the "buy local" movement. While there are currently other green caskets on the market, ours are the only ones hand made and hand finished right here in Portland, Oregon. Unlike some other green burial companies, we recognize the impact of shipping wastes and transport emissions as a key factor in our design. This is why we are so committed to local fabrication and distribution.