One Last Ride: How Brad Turned a Marketplace Find into a Canadian First
- Hailey Bell
- Sep 23
- 4 min read
Name: Brad Chalcraft
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Business Name: One Last Ride Ltd.
Website: www.onelastride.ca
Category: Small Business
💬 INTRODUCTION
My name is Brad Chalcraft, and I am the proud owner of One Last Ride Ltd., a business I founded in 2023. Based in Edmonton, Alberta, I am 43 years old and deeply passionate about serving my community.
I would describe myself as an outgoing individual with a genuine desire to help others.. Through One Last Ride, I find great fulfillment in providing families with closure during some of life’s most difficult moments. Every service I offer is carried out with compassion, dignity, and respect, with the goal of making each experience as meaningful and comforting as possible.
🔥 THE PASSION
The inspiration behind One Last Ride Motorcycle Hearse came from a mix of personal passion and a heartfelt desire to help others. While originally searching for a traditional car hearse, I came across the concept of a motorcycle hearse — and as an avid rider, it immediately struck a chord with me.
I realized that this unique approach could give families a powerful and meaningful way to honor their loved ones. To me, it’s about more than transportation; it’s about creating an experience that truly reflects the personality, spirit, and passions of the person being remembered. Helping families find closure in such a personal and heartfelt way is incredibly rewarding, and it’s what drives me to continue this work every day.
🇨🇦 COMMUNITY & CANADIAN PRIDE
To me, Canadian pride means embracing the diversity, traditions, and rich culture that shape who we are. As the only company in Canada offering a motorcycle hearse service, I carry a strong sense of responsibility to represent that uniqueness and innovation. This work is about more than just offering something different — it’s about pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box, while still respecting the traditions that matter most to families during difficult times. I take pride in offering a service that is distinct yet deeply personal, allowing me to connect with people in a meaningful way. In doing so, I believe I’m reflecting the true Canadian spirit of community, compassion, and support.
🚀 BUILDING THE DREAM
One of my biggest standout moments so far has been officially launching this company. That first step turned an idea into reality, and it’s something I’ll always look back on with pride. More recently, I acquired another unit, which marks a huge milestone in growth and possibility.
What makes these achievements even more meaningful is the support I’ve received from my community and friends—it reminds me every day that this dream isn’t just mine, but something shared. Their encouragement fuels me to keep pushing forward, building piece by piece, and staying motivated for what’s ahead.
🤝 NETWORKING SPOT
A collaboration I’d love to explore is with other Canadian creatives connected to the funeral homes I’ve already partnered with here in Edmonton.
Working alongside them has shown me how powerful it can be when vision and compassion come together. By combining our creative efforts, I believe we could create something that’s not only unique but also deeply meaningful for the families we serve. Looking ahead, I plan to expand these connections across Western Canada, building partnerships that will allow this business to grow while continuing to honor and support communities in a truly impactful way.
🌠 COMETS QUESTIONS
COMET: I saw in a past interview that you actually found this bike on Marketplace while scrolling one day — how did that impulse moment end up becoming a full reality for you?
BRAD: I stumbled upon the hearse bike while browsing Marketplace and immediately saw its potential as a unique business opportunity. What started as a spontaneous find quickly turned into a vision for something different in the industry. I recognized the chance to offer a fresh perspective on transportation for memorial services, and that impulse moment has now evolved into a fulfilling reality.
COMET: Is there a particular ride or story that has stuck with you and changed the way you see your work?
BRAD: Each ride presents a unique experience, but one service that has profoundly impacted me was for a member of the Red Rum MC. It was my largest service to date, and it deeply resonated with me. Every service offers the opportunity to learn about the individual who has passed, and I strive to make each tribute as personal and meaningful as possible.
COMET: How heavy does playing this role weigh on you mentally?
BRAD: Each funeral takes an emotional toll on me. Witnessing families in grief and the pain of losing a loved one is challenging. However, the knowledge that I am providing them with closure offers me a sense of comfort and purpose.
COMET: What’s the furthest someone has asked you to travel so far for a last ride?
BRAD: Calgary, Alberta is the farthest so far.
COMET: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced getting this business off the ground?
BRAD: The journey of launching this business presented several significant challenges. Financial constraints were a primary concern, particularly regarding bike maintenance. Additionally, as the sole operator, effectively spreading awareness about my company and ensuring people recognize its existence has been a considerable hurdle.
COMET: When your time comes, would you want this to be your own last ride?
BRAD: When my time comes, I can only envision my last ride in this manner. This business is an integral part of my identity; I even have “One Last Ride” tattooed on my arm. I have communicated to my son that I want this legacy to endure after I’m gone.
COMET: Anything else you’d like to include?
BRAD: As much as I love my business, a word of advice to everybody — please ride safe. We can wait.
✨ Comet just wants to say a special thank you to Brad Charcraft for what he does and how he shows up for his community. Your work leaves a lasting impact, and we’re proud to share your story. ✨
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