11/14/2025
In the late 1960s, around 1968–1969, two of the area’s oldest and most trusted funeral homes came together to form what is now known as Gorsline-Runciman. This historic merger united Gorsline Funeral Homes of Lansing and Ball-Dunn Funeral Home of Mason, two firms that had already built reputations for compassion, professionalism, and community service.
This newspaper ad announced the new partnership, highlighting the directors who pledged to carry on that tradition. Pictured here are some of the names that shaped our history: Dale R. Gorsline, part of the Gorsline family whose service in Lansing dated back to the early 1900s; Glen Dunn, representing the Dunn family who served Mason with integrity and care; George Runciman, whose family name would soon be forever linked with Gorsline’s; along with Schuyler Smith, David Cormell, Jordan Odell, and others whose commitment helped build the foundation we stand on today.
For the families of mid-Michigan, this merger meant even greater strength, resources, and continuity of care. As the ad proclaimed at the time, “Two dependable firms now serving as one.”
Decades later, both our Lansing chapels and our Ball-Dunn Chapel in Mason continue to honor that promise. We remain dedicated to serving families in their times of greatest need, guided by the same values of trust, dignity, and compassionate care that began with these remarkable men and their families.
Our history is a reminder that while times change, our mission remains the same: to walk beside families with unwavering support, just as our founders did generations ago.
