Our family serving your family

Over the years, our commitment to "our family serving your family" has remained unchanged. This funeral home continues to respond to the changing needs of the San Jose community.

We are proud to be a member of the Dignity Memorial® network of funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. When you choose a Dignity Memorial provider, you not only receive the compassionate care you expect from a locally-operated establishment, but also the value you deserve from the a trusted network of funeral, cremation and memorial service providers.

All of our services are designed to help you through one of the most personal and challenging stages in life. We understand losing a loved one can be an emotional and difficult experience, and we are committed to helping families with compassionate, professional service. Please contact us if you need immediate assistance, or if you would like more information about our services.

We honor veterans

At Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel, we understand the unique needs of America’s veterans and their families. As a Level Three Founding Community Partner with We Honor Veterans, our staff is knowledgeable in the benefits available to veterans and their families. With respect, integrity and dignity, we will walk you through the steps of creating a veteran's memorial service that truly honors the life and sacrifice of your loved one.

History

In 1945 in San Jose, Donald J. Lima Sr. established Lima Salmon Erickson Memorial Chapel by bringing on two partners, Ralph Salmon Sr. and Gilmore Erickson. As years progressed, Mr. Lima became the sole owner of the establishment, and when his children graduated from San Francisco College of Mortuary Science together in 1971, the name was changed to Lima Family Erickson Memorial Chapel. In addition, Mr. Lima purchased Harmon A. Smith Funeral Home in 1974 and changed its name to Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary.

The Lima Family Mortuaries developed a reputation for offering compassionate, caring service, and they set a standard of providing service beyond expectation. Mr. Lima went on to open Cedar Lawn Memorial Park and Lima Family Milpitas-Fremont Mortuary, and he developed one of the largest family-owned funeral homes in California.

Christmas in the Park

In 1950, Mr. Lima placed animated characters as a small holiday display in front of the funeral home, drawing spectators young and old. The display became so popular that, in 1970, it was donated to the City of San Jose and was erected on the City Hall lawn for several years. It was later moved to Plaza de Cesar Chavez and is known as Christmas in the Park.

More than 60 musical and animated holiday themes are on display, including the Lima Train. The event draws more than 450,000 people during the 4-week holiday season.