About Us

A Proud History

John J. Radel entered the funeral service in 1878 after helping a neighbor with the burial of an infant. He opened his first office with a small frame structure at 652 State Avenue in Lower Price Hill, replacing it with a new, larger building by 1903. On December 23, 1902, he incorporated the John J. Radel Company with Joseph Metzner, John A. Radel, John Ruehlmann, and August G. Mueller.

John J. Radel purchased automotive equipment in 1912 to replace his horses and carriages, receiving national publicity as one of the first automobile-serviced funeral homes in the country.

In 1917, at the age of 57, John J. Radel died, a victim of the flu epidemic. His son, Henry J., immediately took charge of the company. Henry was already used to hard work and long hours, looking after the horses and buggies that a number of doctors kept at the Radel stables. Now in charge of the company, he looked toward expansion. A new funeral home was built in Newport, Kentucky at 822 York Street in 1927, replacing a home on Patterson Street, built in 1907. Another funeral home was built in Covington at 1005 Madison Avenue in 1938.

Fares J. Radel began construction on a new concept in the funeral industry which is a state-of-the-art Funeral Home and Crematory with the theme “In Honor of Our Life and Spirit.” The new $2 million facility is located at 5950 Kellogg Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio.

It is the only private crematory in Greater Cincinnati and raised the bar for the funeral industry in the area, providing upscale cremation and memorial services citywide.

In November 2008, in order to better serve families in the Northern Kentucky area, a new facility was constructed at 4016 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, Kentucky to replace the former home in Highland Heights.

Fares J. Radel is CEO of Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes, Inc., Mickey Radel serves as President.

The Radel Difference

At Fares J. Radel Funeral Homes and Crematory, we understand what a difficult and sensitive time it is when a family member passes. We distinguish ourselves from other funeral homes in our commitment to making the funeral celebration a rewarding and memorable experience for family and friends.

First and foremost, we are a family-owned funeral home that dates back to 1878, drawing on years of experience and a dedication to the families we serve. It starts with a trained, professional staff that is kind, courteous, and empathetic to your needs throughout the planning and funeral process. Each of our funeral homes offers a beautiful setting and a comprehensive array of service options to personalize the ceremony to the memory of your loved one. In addition, we will work to optimize your arrangements within your budget parameters. We do everything possible to make this an occasion that is meaningful and pleasant to everyone involved.

When considering funeral homes in the Greater Cincinnati area, remember the Radel difference.