Todd Mahn is a remarkable third-generation funeral service professional, community leader, and civic-minded individual rooted deeply in De Soto and Festus, Missouri. His story spans decades of dedication to both his family business the Mahn Funeral Homes and the wider community he cherishes. Here's a closer look at the man, his achievements, and his impact.
Heritage and Family Business
Todd Mahn represents the third generation of Mahn stewardship. In 1991, he accepted the responsibility of leading Mahn Funeral Homes, embracing traditions built by his forebears with renewed passion. He has held fast to those traditions while evolving and modernizing the services notably expanding with the construction of a new cemetery and mausoleum.
He has been instrumental in growing the Mahn Funeral Homes footprint. In December of 1998, he opened the Peaceful Ridge Cemetery and Mausoleum in De Soto a serene resting place organized with respect and dignity. The following year, he further expanded operations in Festus by acquiring an additional funeral home, demonstrating an entrepreneurial vision balanced by deep respect for caring for families during times of loss.
Through his leadership, Todd Mahn Funeral Homes has continued to flourish, offering modern, thoughtful services and attentive care to grieving families. Todd’s approach merges tradition with innovation, ensuring that each service honors those who have passed in a personalized and meaningful way.
Professional Credentials and Industry Leadership
Todd’s dedication extends beyond his business to his involvement in professional regulation. He has served as Chair of the Missouri State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors—a testament to his expertise and high ethical standards. In this capacity, Todd has played a key role overseeing professional practices, ensuring that bereaved families receive proper care, respectful treatment of their loved ones, and adherence to industry regulations.
He also helped lead efforts to uncover significant wrongdoing within the profession. As reported, “While I served on the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors, I was a part of bringing down the biggest heist in the history of …”. This highlights Todd’s courageous commitment to upholding ethical standards.
Civic-Minded and Community-Oriented
Todd Mahn isn’t just a funeral service provider he’s deeply involved in civic life. He has leveraged his position and resources to support community initiatives and enrich local culture.
One standout example is his annual Car Cruise held on De Soto Main Street. Organized under his guidance, this community event brings families together, drawing classic vehicle enthusiasts and neighbors for a festive evening. Through such events, Todd strengthens local bonds and fosters city pride.
He’s also led efforts to restore historic local landmarks. Notably, he restored a vintage fire truck for De Soto’s Fourth of July and Veterans Day parades, reminding residents of shared heritage and enhancing community celebrations. His preservation of an historic Texaco station in De Soto across from Mahn Funeral Homes further shows his passion for keeping the town’s character alive.
Political Aspirations Rooted in Service
In 2016, Todd sought to serve his region at a higher level. He ran in the Republican primary for Missouri’s 8th Congressional District, finishing third with 11.9% of the vote. Though he didn’t advance, his candidacy demonstrated a genuine desire to lead and support Missouri’s families through public service.
Earlier, he participated in Democratic nominations in 2012 and 2013, reflecting a thoughtful approach to governance and a willingness to explore different platforms. Todd’s mainstay isn’t party politics, but the earnest pursuit of positive impact on his community and beyond.
A Legacy of Compassion and Integrity
Todd Mahn stands out not just because of what he’s built, but how. His life’s work embodies:
Genuine compassion: Guiding families with empathy as they navigate grief.
High ethical standards: Leading with honesty, integrity, and transparency.
Community engagement: Empowering local events, heritage, and civic projects.
Entrepreneurial spirit: Growing Mahn Funeral Homes while retaining core values.
Vision for public service: Seeking election to serve on a broader scale.
He is the embodiment of a community-driven professional who blends business success with caring service, ethical leadership, and civic participation.
Why Todd Mahn Matters
Deep Roots, Modern Insight: He connects centuries-old funeral service traditions with innovation like the Deer Oto cemetery facilities—offering modern, customizable services grounded in empathy.
Integrity in Action: His leadership in exposing major malpractices via the State Board shows a principled stance protecting families and reinforcing trust in the profession.
Community Champion: From reviving local heritage with restored fire trucks to collaborating in civic festivals, Todd invests in the soul of his hometown.
Service-Driven Leadership: Running for Congress was just one manifestation of Todd’s commitment to service; his career has always been centered around supporting families—both personally and in the public arena.
Forward-Looking Vision
Looking ahead, Todd Mahn continues evolving his family legacy. The Peaceful Ridge Cemetery and Mausoleum are now landmarks of comfort and care in De Soto. The funeral home’s expanded presence in Festus along with civic initiatives—demonstrates his steady dedication to meeting local needs. His abiding respect for professionalism, community traditions, and family values positions him as a leader of balance, heart, and purpose.
Conclusion
At the core, Todd Mahn is more than a successful funeral director or an aspiring public servant. He is an individual shaped by purpose shaped by a passion for compassionate service, a drive for ethical leadership, and a genuine love for community. His dual commitment to grief support and civic enrichment speaks volumes about his values: integrity, empathy, and stewardship.