Hi, we're Shafiq (Shaq) and Melissa!

Melissa was born and raised in the Kootenays (Montrose) and later moved to Victoria to pursue her education. While earning her Master’s degree in Neuroscience, she met me —I’m originally from Kenya and moved to Canada 15 years ago. Today, Mel works in cancer research, and I’m an Electrician and certified Crematory Operator.  When we're not busy working on our property in Fruitvale, you'll find us spending time outdoors - fishing, camping and living our best life in the Kootenays with our two pups, Boof and Chili-dog.

While Mel was completing her post-graduate degree and I was building my career in the trades, we stayed connected to animals by offering pet-sitting services, working for a dog walking/training company, and fostering. These experiences deepened our appreciation for the unique and powerful bond between people and their pets. 

Five years ago, we started Kenyadian Creations, a custom engraving and merchandise business. After losing family pets and hearing concerns from friends and family about the cremation process, we decided to offer a more personalized approach to pet aftercare. We then purchased the facilities of Mountain Street Pet Cremations, and with the guidance and blessing of Will and Anne McInnis, we established Kootenay Pet Cremations.

As pet parents ourselves, we truly understand the bond between humans and their animals. We treat every pet we cremate as if they were our own, and we feel a sense of loss every time we create a memorial for a client. 

The opportunity to provide comfort and honor the memory of your pet is what motivates us to carry on this work with love and compassion.