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HOW CAN A MAUSOLEUM HELP REDUCE EXPENSES?
In almost every case, it won’t reduce expenses. In fact, using a mausoleum may increase expenses. While use of a mausoleum eliminates the purchase of a cemetery lot and burial vault, the initial purchase price of the mausoleum may exceed the costs of those other items necessary for earth burial. Furthermore, some cemetery mausoleums require certain types of caskets, which may not be the most economically priced. Finally, there have been cases of mausoleums deteriorating over the years to the point of having to remove the caskets and bury them in a cemetery. Consult us and consider all the facts before making any decisions.
WHAT PET MEMORIAL SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?
Losing a pet is losing a member of your family. Many of the same emotions are experienced. While we are not a “pet funeral home,” we do offer some services to assist pet owners upon the death of their pet. Caskets, urns, markers, garden memorials, and more can be ordered directly from our web site. We can also arrange for the cremation and return of your pet’s remains, in a plain container or in an urn of your choice. We can even produce a memorial video of your pet, if desired. Click here for more information on Pet Services.
WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I ATTEND A VISITATION?
When you arrive, find the family members and extend condolences. If you were an acquaintance to the deceased immediately introduce yourself to the family. Conversations about how you knew the deceased is natural. It is customary, to show your respects by viewing the deceased and spending a few moments in meditation. Sign the guest book using your full name and if you were a business associate of the deceased, note your company affiliation so that the family may have a record of all that attended.
DOES THE VA PAY FOR A VETERAN’S FUNERAL SERVICE?
Generally speaking, no. There are some VA benefits available to qualified veterans, but they will by no means pay for everything. There is a small plot allowance, and a US flag is provided for services. If the veteran died in a VA facility, there are more benefits. Burial in a National Cemetery is always an option for a qualified veteran. The grave, burial, marker, and grave liner are all provided at no charge. Veterans who die as a result of active duty are eligible for more benefits, and their families will receive benefits as well. More information can be obtained at our website, or at www.va.gov.
I HAVE NEVER ARRANGED A FUNERAL BEFORE, WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
You should check if the deceased had a pre-paid funeral plan. If they did, bring that to the arrangements conference. The following is a general list of information you will need for planning a funeral. Birth and wedding dates, deceased's relatives (deceased and living), deceased's employment history, insurance companies, doctor, cemetery location, any organizations, clubs, or unions which the deceased may have belonged. Time of service, type of service (i.e. religious, military, etc.). Specify burial or cremation, choose a casket or urn, vault, flowers, and music. Choose clothing, pallbearers, readings for the funeral, relevant information (i.e. surviving family members, location of services, etc.) for the obituary. Specify a charity for donations, number of copies of the Death Certificates needed for insurance claims, arrangements for a caterer. Call us and we will send you a Guidelines booklet to store all of this information.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PLAN A FUNERAL?
There are no two families that have the same needs; so, no two funerals should be exactly the same. Generally speaking, planning most funerals takes approximately two hours. Planning can be done at the funeral home, or at the family’s residence, whichever is more convenient. Additional time may be spent with the clergy, planning specific aspects of the funeral service. Many decisions may be made ahead of time by pre-planning with us, when emotions are at rest, and when wishes can be made known.
IF A SERVICE IS LISTED AS PRIVATE, HOW CAN ONE FIND OUT WHERE TO SEND A CARD OR FLOWERS?
Simply call us, and we can advise you accordingly. Sympathy cards can always be sent to the funeral home to the family’s attention. We will then forward them to the appropriate family member. Flowers can always be ordered from a florist, just like any other time. The florist will coordinate with us as to where to deliver the bouquet. It may be desired at the funeral home or church for a private service, or it may be delivered directly to a family member’s residence. Private services are arranged for various reasons, and expressions of sympathy are always welcome.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU DON'T WANT TO RECEIVE FLOWERS, IS THERE A WAY TO VOICE THIS?
Flowers help people to say what is often difficult to express, and they are always appropriate and in good taste. Many people want to express sympathy and show respect for the deceased in a variety of ways, including charitable contributions, food donations, a helping hand, or cards and flowers. Flowers also play a functional role, adding warmth to the service and providing the visible, emotional support that the bereaved need during a difficult time. Leftover flowers may be donated to area nursing homes and churches, if desired. It is appropriate to list desired memorial contributions in the obituary, but it is unreasonable to expect that no flowers at all be sent.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A PRENEED FUNERAL CONTRACT?
A preneed funeral contract is an agreement, between the purchaser and the funeral home, whereby the funeral home agrees to provide services and merchandise, as described in the contract, at some future time, for an agreed
upon payment amount. A guaranteed price contract will lock in prices at today's amounts. A non-guaranteed contract may be subject to additional charges. Some contracts have guaranteed parts and non-guaranteed parts. You may prepay for as much or as little as you care to do.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PLAN A FUNERAL?
There are no two families that have the same needs; so, no two funerals should be exactly the same. Generally speaking, planning most funerals takes approximately two hours. Planning can be done at the funeral home, or at the family’s residence, whichever is more convenient. Additional time may be spent with the clergy, planning specific aspects of the funeral service. Many decisions may be made ahead of time by pre-planning with us, when emotions are at rest, and when wishes can be made known. Check our website for more information on planning funerals.
SHOULD THE BODY OF THE DECEASED BE PRESENT AT THE FUNERAL?
You would not have a baptism without the baby present. You do not celebrate a birthday without the birthday honoree present. You would not hold a graduation ceremony without the graduating students present. You would not have a wedding ceremony without the bride and groom present. You would not hold a retirement party without the retiree present. A funeral is for the living, but it is all about the deceased. It makes sense to have the deceased present at the ceremony. Seeing is believing, and experts agree that viewing the deceased allows the opportunity to begin the experience of life without that special person.
WHY WOULD I NEED TO PURCHASE CERTIFIED COPIES OF A DEATH CERTIFICATE?
Certified copies of a death certificate are legal proof of death. They may be needed for the transfer of stocks, bonds, banking transactions, retirement funds, life insurance claims and other death benefits. The death certificate is always filed in the county where the death occurred. We can help you determine how many you may need to settle an estate and also secure them for you. The Seneca County Health Department currently charges $20 per copy plus $3 for a burial/cremation permit. Costs vary from county to county.
IS A FUNERAL OR MEMORIAL SERVICE ALWAYS HELD IN A FUNERAL HOME OR A PLACE OF WORSHIP?
No, not necessarily. Although most services are held here in our chapel or in a church, it is possible to have a service elsewhere. At the graveside, in one’s home, in a park, or some other public or private location are all options. It should be mentioned, however, that our chapel or a church remain the best-equipped facilities in which to conduct a service. Other locations require additional steps, such as permission from the owner, parking, seating, sound systems, etc. We will help arrange whatever service is most meaningful for the family.
I WANT TO START PRE-PLANNING A FUNERAL. DO I HAVE TO SELECT EVERYTHING, OR CAN I JUST START PAYING AND PICK ITEMS LATER?
It is easier to select everything desired ahead of time and make them a part of the preneed contract. It is not necessary, however, and payments may be made, either in full or part, on a preneed contract without specifying merchandise. There are flexible payment plans which allow you to pay as you can, when you can. Of course, if you can pay in one lump sum, you are better off. But, for those who cannot, payments are available. Our website has more information on prepayment options.
DO I HAVE TO PURCHASE A CASKET FROM THE FUNERAL HOME I HAVE CHOSEN, OR CAN I PURCHASE IT FROM SOMEWHERE ELSE?
Federal regulations prohibit funeral homes from requiring that families purchase merchandise from the funeral home. There are other sources for purchasing caskets. However, one should be very careful when considering purchasing outside the funeral home. There may very well be a problem with obtaining delivery in the time necessary. Quality of the casket, and the reputation of the manufacturer, may also come into question. Caskets may very well cost less, and be in immediate stock, from the funeral home. Always check with us about prices and availability of caskets BEFORE making a final decision.
CAN I GET AN OVERSIZED OR UNDERSIZED CASKET?
Standard caskets are 6’6” in length inside and will accommodate the majority of our population. Larger caskets, in both width and length, are available when needed. These larger caskets sometimes require a larger burial vault and larger cemetery space. Smaller caskets are available for children and infants, in many different sizes and colors. We strive to meet the needs of any challenge with regards to casket size, style, and color.
CAN MY FAMILY CHANGE MY PRE-ARRANGEMENTS?
Beginning October 9, 2006, there is a new law that goes into effect stating that a person during his or her lifetime may appoint a representative who will have the top priority when it comes to fulfilling a prearranged funeral. This may be anyone the person chooses who may uphold the deceased’s final wishes. This will be valid only if it is made in a written document that meets the requirements of the law. If the document is not completed before the time of death, the standard hierarchy will be enforced...Spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, lineal descendants of the deceased grandparents, the deceased personal guardian at the time of death, or any person willing to assume the right.
HOW IS A CREMATION SERVICE DIFFERENT FROM A TRADITIONAL SERVICE?
It need not be different at all. Every aspect of a “traditional” service can also be a part of a service involving cremation. Viewing, visitation, a church funeral service, tribute video, flowers, etc., are all services available to all families. The only difference is the means of final disposition, that of cremation versus earth burial. Too often, the word cremation is associated with a direct disposition with no service. This is also an option, of course, with either cremation or burial. Our award-winning website explains all the options in great detail, or give us a call.
WHY IS MUSIC IMPORTANT AT THE VISITATION AND FUNERAL SERVICE?
People who have lost a loved one find comfort with music. A specific song can remind us of a certain event during the time that was lived. Sometimes, words to a specific song can make us feel better than anything that anyone can say. For other people, music is a soothing form of dealing with their grief. Any way that people can heal during the grieving process is important and using music can be just as instrumental. We ask that families bring in music that was important to the deceased to be played, or we have religious and meditative music to listen to.
WHAT DO I BRING TO THE FUNERAL HOME WHEN MAKING ARRANGEMENTS?
We ask families to bring information that will be helpful in compiling the obituary, including photos, not only for the obituary, but for a tribute video, if desired. Clothing for the deceased may be brought to the initial meeting, although it is usually not required at that time. Some families want us to assist them in filing life insurance claims, so they bring in policies and other information. Veteran discharge papers help us in our job of assisting the family in obtaining VA benefits. Cemetery deeds explain exactly where the deceased is to be buried. Generally, you should bring anything that you feel may be helpful.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF DEATH OCCURS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT OR ON A WEEKEND?
Our funeral home staff is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to assist families. If the death is attended (in a hospital/nursing home/under Hospice care), the appropriate nursing staff will assist you in contacting the funeral home. If the death is unattended or sudden, the appropriate authorities must be contacted (police/coroner). We know the laws and regulations and can help at any hour. Our staff will be dispatched right away to the place of death to begin assisting you in the desired manner.
WHAT RECOURSE DOES A CONSUMER HAVE FOR POOR SERVICE OR OVERCHARGING?
First, you should discuss the matter with the owner of the funeral home, as a misunderstanding has probably occurred, and it will likely be remedied. All concerns should be addressed immediately so something can be done about them. (It is hard to make changes to the appearance of the deceased if burial has already taken place). All charges should be discussed before the funeral. Most funeral directors want you to be satisfied and will take steps to achieve that satisfaction. If an agreement cannot be reached, you may wish to contact the Better Business Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, or the Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY AGAINST RISING FUNERAL COSTS?
By prepaying your funeral expenses now, you can protect against future inflationary price increases. The beginning of the year is when we typically experience price increases from manufacturers of caskets, vaults, as well as our costs of doing business. By prepaying now, before prices increase, you can freeze these costs at today’s levels. Other outside expenses, such as cemetery/crematory, flowers, newspapers, clergy, music, and other cash advance items can also be prepaid. However, they cannot be guaranteed, because those costs are dictated by outside sources and are beyond our control.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TIMES TO SCHEDULE VISITATION?
There is no “best” time, it is really up to the family, with occasionally some restrictions due to other funeral schedules. Most people desire visitation during both afternoon and evening hours, such as 2-4 and 6-8 pm, although others run visitation all day, such as 2-8 pm. Some family’s desire hours only in the evening, or only in the afternoon. Still others want visitation open for an hour or two prior to the funeral service. We still occasionally have visitation for two full days prior to the funeral, although this is less common than it used to be. We will tailor the visitation hours to the family’s needs, whatever those needs are.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ACTIVE PALLBEARER AND AN HONORARY PALLBEARER?
An active pallbearer is one who actually assists in the physical act of carrying the deceased’s casket. Active pallbearers may carry as many as four different times during the course of a funeral. (Out of the funeral home, into church, out of church, and to the grave at the cemetery.) Carrying the casket does require some degree of physical strength as some caskets can weigh 500 pounds or more. An Honorary pallbearer is one who, for various reasons, is not asked to physically carry the casket, but rather walk ahead of the casket in the procession, in honor of the deceased. Active pallbearers usually number from 6-8 people, but there is no limit as to the number of honorary pallbearers which may be used.
HOW CAN I BE BURIED AT SEA?
Burial at sea is available to any active duty or honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces. It is performed by the U.S. Navy from selected ports. Burial at sea will take place at a day and time of the Navy’s choosing, depending on various ships schedules. A full military service will be conducted at sea, then the American flag will be returned to the family. The service is performed privately by the Navy; the family is not present. However, the next of kin will be notified when the burial at sea has taken place. There is no charge for the actual Navy services, however the family is responsible for expenses incurred in transporting the remains to the nearest Navy port.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF EMBALMING AND IS IT REQUIRED BY LAW?
Embalming is the temporary disinfection, preservation, and restoration of the dead human body, usually performed so that a formal public viewing of the remains can be held. It is never a means of permanent preservation, although it allows a family to take time to make important decisions, without the hurried disposition of the remains. Restoration can be performed to return the remains to an acceptable condition for viewing, especially after a traumatic death. Embalming is not required by law, but may be necessary if certain arrangements are desired. Embalming may only be performed by a person holding a State of Ohio Embalmer’s license, earned only after years of training and education.
WHAT IS AN ETERNAL REEF?
An Eternal Reef is an option available for the disposition of cremated remains. The cremains are added into a concrete mixture, a process in which the family may participate, if they desire; the concrete is cast into a dome shaped mold with various holes for sea creatures. Family members may add hand prints, take rubbings of the name plate on the Eternal Reef, and also participate in the lowering ceremony of the reef into the ocean. This becomes a permanent home for sea life and is just one of the many different and unique ways for the final disposition of cremated remains.
WHAT ARE THE BEST TIMES TO SCHEDULE VISITATION?
There is no “best” time, it is really up to the family, with occasionally some restrictions due to other funeral schedules. Most people desire visitation during both afternoon and evening hours, such as 2-4 and 6-8 pm, although others run visitation all day, such as 2-8 pm. Some families desire hours only in the evening, or only in the afternoon. Still others want visitation open for an hour or two prior to the funeral service. We still occasionally have visitation for two full days prior to the funeral, although this is less common than it used to be. We will tailor the visitation hours to the family’s needs, whatever those needs are.
WHY DO THEY PLAY TAPS FOR MILITARY FUNERALS?
The playing of Taps is extended to the family of the deceased veteran as part of the military honors. It is a way of saying good-bye to those that have faithfully served our country. Taps were first played during the Civil War. Taps were sounded at the time during a cease fire so that each side could remove their dead from the battlefield. Taps today are played at the cemetery just after the 21 gun salute, while the flag is held over the casket. Whether is was during the Civil War or today, Taps reminds us that we are caring for our dead.
WHAT DOES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES MEAN?
Professional Services comprises those responsibilities and duties performed by the funeral home on behalf of your family. Some duties require a license issued by the State of Ohio. These duties include, but are not limited to, arranging, coordinating, and supervising the funeral details, embalming and preparation of the deceased, making available the funeral home building and grounds for viewing, directing the funeral service, either on- or off-premises, and making available the various means of transportation, both for the deceased and the family. Many services are performed “behind the scenes,” and may not be obvious to the casual observer, but their absence would certainly be noticed if not performed properly.
DO YOU OFFER MEMORIAL VIDEOS?
Yes, we do! A video memory production is a professionally-produced montage of photos, set to music, which beautifully commemorate the life of a loved one. Here's how it works: You provide up to 50 photos, which will create a video about 10-15 minutes in length. You may select music from our fully-licensed and extensive music library. This is not simply a "slide show," but a professional video and audio experience. Keep in mind that funerals aren't the only occasions to produce a memorial video. Anniversaries, birthdays, and other occasions are also suitable times to remember. Our videos are available for any occasion.
IS IT A GOOD IDEA TO HAVE WISHES RECORDED IN A WILL?
No! It is not a good idea to have funeral and burial wishes recorded in a will. Here’s why: A will is ordinarily not opened or read until several days after the funeral. It is possible that the funeral and burial will already have been completed, only to discover that entirely different arrangements would have been preferred by the deceased. By then it will be too late to make changes. Any wishes regarding funeral preferences should first be discussed with your family and funeral director, written down, recorded, and kept in a safe place. We will retain copies of all arrangements, and you should keep copies at home, and also with your financial advisor or attorney, if possible.
CAN I MAKE CEMETERY ARRANGEMENTS THROUGH THE FUNERAL HOME?
As a full-service funeral home, we can assist families with all aspects of their funeral arrangements. We are not affiliated with any one cemetery, but we have contacts with all the area cemeteries, and we can put families in touch with cemetery personnel so that they can make their cemetery decisions. Cemetery costs are treated like any other outside expense, such as flowers, newspaper notices, clergy and musicians, in that the expense can be added to the expenses when prepaying a funeral. At the time of actual burial, however, most cemeteries will require any amounts owed to be paid at the time of the burial.
WHO PAYS FOR FUNERALS FOR THE INDIGENT?
The State of Ohio no longer offers any funds to help bury persons deemed to be indigent (without family or funds). The City of Tiffin does have an Indigent Burial Program for those residents of the City. It is available only to those deemed to be truly indigent, and the amount offered will not exceed $750.00. For county residents, each Township is responsible for providing grave space and some burial funds for their respective indigent residents (this is according to State Law). Indigent Veterans will be offered assistance by the local Veterans Service Commission. Services and merchandise offered in exchange for the indigent payments will vary among funeral homes, but will likely be dignified, minimum services.
WHY CHOOSE A FAMILY-OWNED FUNERAL HOME?
A Family-Owned Funeral Home can better serve you, because you are dealing directly with the people who own the funeral home. Some funeral homes are owned by large out-of-town corporations, which may not have your best interest in mind. They have to answer to Wall Street investors, who are only interested in financial return. Decisions which affect our family-owned funeral home, such as service policies and pricing, are made right here, by us, the owners, who have the community's interest in mind, since we live and raise our families right here. We answer to you, not Wall Street.
HOW CAN I HELP A FRIEND DEAL WITH THE DEATH OF A LOVED ONE?
Listening to grieving people is the most important thing you can do. Listen in a non-judging way, and allow them to tell the stories over and over if they need to. Share your memories of the loved one, too. Reflect on the feelings they are experiencing, but don't say, “I know exactly how you feel.” It's usually much more helpful to say something along the lines of “I can't imagine what you must be feeling right now.” because, most grieving people feel like no one else could know what they're experiencing. Each person recovers from grief at his or her own pace. Some can recover quickly, while others can take a full year or more (this will also depend on the severity of the loss ) Celebrate. It may sound strange to talk about celebrating, but it can help grieving people heal. Help them celebrate the life of the loved one they've lost. Help them develop rituals they need to get through the difficult early stages of the grieving process.
Adapted from the article Helping Others Experience Grief.
HOW DO FUNERAL HOMES COLLECT PAYMENT?
Each funeral home, as an independent business, will have its own payment policy which will vary. We offer several different methods in which to make payments. Cash or personal check, Visa or MasterCard are always accepted. We also can take an assignment on a verified life insurance policy, with the beneficiary assigning the benefits to the funeral home. We also offer a monthly payment program, which requires an approved credit application. We do offer an administrative discount for those who pay in full by the day of the funeral. We encourage communication of special circumstances between the family and the funeral director, as we will work to accommodate any special needs.
WHAT HAPPENS IF DEATH OCCURS BEFORE MY PREARRANGEMENT IS PAID IN FULL?
It depends on the contract is written. Whenever you elect to pay over time, certain health questions are asked. If you are in reasonably good health, then, if you die before all payments are made, you are covered for the entire funeral cost. If you fail to answer the health questions positively, then you are still covered, however you may be subject to limited death benefits for a certain period, usually one or tow years. After that you are fully covered. If payment is made in one single payment at the time of the contract, then full coverage is immediate and permanent, regardless of health.
SHOULD CHILDREN KNOW ABOUT DEATH?
YES! Learning to accept death is natural experience in life. It is most important that children not be excluded from participating in the funeral service. Children, who sometimes are "protected" from the experience, know when they are being deceived. They should not be told that "Grandma is sleeping.", or "Grandpa went on a trip." Instead, honesty is vital. Explanations should be simple, and in an environment that will stimulate questions and comfort. Above, all love and reassurance should be paramount so that the child will feel secure. Different levels of involvement are called upon depending upon the age of the child. We have a children's room in our funeral home, with toys, television/VCR, and games, to help children of all ages feel comfortable in the funeral home environment. We also have literature, free for the asking which helps parents to explain and children to understand, the concepts surrounding death.
WHY DO WE HAVE A PUBLIC VIEWING?
Viewing is part of many cultural and ethnic traditions. Many grief counselors believe that viewing aids the grieving process by helping the bereaved understand the reality of death. Viewing is encouraged for children, as long as the process is explained and the children come willingly.
WHAT DO FUNERAL DIRECTORS DO?
Funeral directors are caregivers and managers. They make all of the arrangements for transportation of the body, complete all necessary paperwork, and put into action the choices made by the family regarding the funeral and final disposition of the body.
Funeral directors are listeners, advisors and supporters. They have experience assisting the bereaved in coping with death. Funeral directors are trained to answer questions about grief, and lead the bereaved to sources of professional help. Funeral directors also link survivors with support groups in the community.
WHY ARE FUNERALS SO EXPENSIVE?
When compared to other major life cycle events, like births and weddings, funerals are not expensive. A wedding will cost at least three times as much as that of a funeral; but because a wedding is a happy event, those costs are rarely criticized.
A funeral home is a 24-hour, labor-intensive business, with extensive facilities (viewing rooms, chapels, limousines, hearses, etc.), and those expenses must be figured into the cost of a funeral.
The cost of a funeral includes not only merchandise, like caskets, but the services of a funeral director in making arrangements; filing appropriate forms; making arrangements with doctors, ministers, florists, newspapers and others; and seeing to all of the other necessary details.
Funeral homes are largely family-owned with a modest profit margin. The statistics below may be helpful in assessing the true economic picture of a funeral home:
Family-owned 85%
Firm in business for 63 years
Average calls/year 167
BEFORE tax profit 11.3%
(Source: 1995 NFDA Survey of Funeral Home Operations)
HOW MUCH WOULD A FUNERAL COST?
In 1998 the charge for an adult, full-service funeral, was $5,020. This includes a professional service charge, transfer-of remains, embalming, other preparation, the use of viewing facilities, use of facilities for ceremony, hearse, limousine, and casket. The casket included in that price was an 18-gauge steel casket with velvet interior, that may or may not be the most common casket chosen. Vault, cemetery and monument charges are additional. (Source: 1999 NFDA Survey of Funeral Home Operations)
WHAT PURPOSE DOES A FUNERAL SERVE?
Funerals are the traditional way to recognize death and its finality. They are recognized rituals for the living to show honor for the dead and to help survivors begin the grieving process.
CAN WE MOVE A LOVED ONE FROM ONE CEMETERY TO ANOTHER AFTER BURIAL?
Yes, it is possible to disinter a body from one cemetery and re-inter in another. In some cases, it is necessary to obtain approval from the local Health Department. The costs can be extensive, as the original cemetery must be paid to open the grave around the vault, the successor cemetery must be paid for the new grave and the opening and closing of that grave. A vault company must also be employed to raise the vault, transport the vault to the new cemetery, and inter the vault in the new grave. A licensed funeral director must also be present. Most cemeteries will not buy back graves, so, unless the grave can be sold privately, it will remain unused. We have assisted in disinterment and stand ready to help.
HOW DO I MAKE DECISIONS ABOUT MY OWN FUNERAL PLANS?
Funeral or memorial service? Burial or cremation? Not sure what you want? Then imagine how your family will feel when they're forced to make those decisions when you die. Save them the added turmoil, potential disagreements and second-guessing. Make the decisions now and let them know what you want. It can be as easy as typing up your wishes and giving it to a trusted family member, friend or attorney, though we invite you to contact us at 419-447-3113 to understand all of the options available to you and your family. Our website has extensive information about pre-planning, including photos of products and merchandise available. Here,The Easier Way. you will find a sample arrangement form for you to fill out. You may enter the appropriate information as you see fit, print the sheet out, and mail to us. Or, copy and paste the information into an e-mail message, or send it as an attachment via E-mail. Or, Contact Us and we can meet in person to go over the details. The information is then stored in our confidential files.
IS THERE A COST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BURIAL AND A CREMATION?
Usually, although there is no definite answer as to which costs more. Burial or cremation describes the disposition of the body and is totally unrelated to the level of services desired. It is possible to have a full viewing/service with either. Consequently, one can also arrange an immediate burial or cremation with no service. With cremation, a full-size burial vault is not necessary, but some cemeteries require an urn or smaller urn vault. Cemetery charges vary among burial and cremation options, and the cost of the actual cremation should be considered.
WOULD YOU CONSIDER RELEASING DOVES AT A GRAVESIDE SERVICE?
Absolutely. Releasing doves is just one of the many things which can be done to make a funeral service more meaningful. Releasing balloons, bubbles or live butterflies are other ways as well. There are really no "rules" when it comes to funerals, and each one can be unique. Other services we have seen performed at the grave include a bagpiper playing "Amazing Grace" while he walks off into the distance, special music played, special poetry read by family members, motorcycle club tributes, and family participation in the actual interment and closing of the grave. These "unique" services are not for everyone, and no one should be forced into doing something that they do not want to do. However, nothing should be ruled out if it is meaningful and beneficial to those concerned.
WHEN DEATH OCCURS AWAY FROM HOME, HOW DOES THE LOVED ONE GET HOME FOR A BURIAL?
This is a common occurrence, with many retirees wintering in Florida or some other sunny state. The important thing to remember is to contact us first. We can arrange for everything, including embalming and transportation of the remains back to Ohio. The transportation is usually accomplished via the airlines, although sometimes we can utilize private aircraft for areas not convenient to an airline airport. Once the deceased is back home, other arrangements can be made for viewing, services, and burial.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A "FUNERAL" AND A "MEMORIAL SERVICE"?
The two words are many times used interchangeably, but there is a difference when discussing strict definitions. A funeral is a ritual or service conducted with the dead human body present, normally in a casket. A memorial service is a ritual or service conducted without the body present. The term memorial service is also usually used when an urn containing cremated remains is present for the service. The differences in definition are becoming more difficult to distinguish, because it is being more recognized that the term "funeral" describes any type of service commemorating the life of a loved one, regardless of the details of whether or not the body is present for the service.
I OWN ALMOST 90 ACRES AND LIVE ON THE SAME FARM. CAN I BE BURIED THERE? CAN I HAVE OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS BURIED THERE AS WELL?
In order to bury human remains, a parcel of land must be declared a cemetery and approval must be obtained from the Department of Health. Perpetual care funding must be in place also. If, after all the approvals are granted, human bodies are indeed buried on the land, then the deed of the real estate must stipulate the fact that there are remains interred on the property, and any subsequent purchasers must have that fact disclosed to them. The chances of gaining all of the required approvals are slim, but it is possible.
CAN I HAVE A VISITATION AT MY HOME??
Yes, you may have a visitation anywhere that you deem acceptable, whether it is at our funeral home, at a church, a public hall, or a private residence. You should consider several factors, however. Does the facility have adequate interior space, as well as parking outside, to accommodate the number of people expected, as well as a casket and flowers? Are there restroom facilities? Is it handicapped accessible? Is there a staff available to take care of your needs? Will there be other events occurring there at the same time as the visitation? Is the location convenient? If, after all these factors are considered, it is still desired to have a visitation away from the funeral home, we can assist with these arrangements and provide the equipment necessary.
HOW DOES SOMEONE GET STARTED IN THE FUNERAL SERVICE FIELD?
Some practical experience in a Funeral Home prior to schooling would be a good benefit. Ohio requires a Bachelor's degree prior to entering Mortuary School, which is a twelve to eighteen month course of study. National and State board exams are required. Then a one year apprenticeship under a licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer must be served. Once fully licensed, the Funeral Director/Embalmer then must attain 18 hours of continuing education every two years. If an Embalmer's license is not desired, then a Bachelor's degree and a two year apprenticeship under a licensed Funeral Director, along with state and national exams, will qualify one for a Funeral Director's License. And the 18 hours of continuing education every two years is required.
CAN YOU HANDLE THE ARRANGEMENTS FOR MILITARY BURIAL OF A SERVICE PERSON?
Yes, we can coordinate all details with the appropriate branch of the military. Full services can be conducted, with burial in a local private cemetery, or burial in a national cemetery can be arranged. Full military honors can be extended in either case. Burial in a national cemetery is offered at no charge, including a grave liner and transportation. In the case of active duty deaths, the remains are prepared, dressed, and casketed by the military at the U.S. Military Mortuary at Dover AFB in Delaware and then transported to the local funeral home for services, again at no charge to the family. The nearest national cemetery is located at Rittman, Ohio, near Akron. There is another located in Dayton.
HOW CAN I LEARN TO MANAGE THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE?
Marion Balster of the Compassionate Friends once said, "Grief is like peeling an onion. It comes off one layer at a time, and you cry a lot." Everyone goes through the grief in their own unique way. Don't let anyone tell you how to grieve, or how long to grieve. How long will it hurt? As long as it takes. There are many experts on grief, but YOU are the only expert on YOUR grief. Talking out your feelings can be a great benefit in resolving your grief. Don't hide your feelings, don't hurry your way though those feelings, and don't hold your feelings in. Your clergyman can be a great source of comfort and faith, other are several other sources in our area which can help guide you through your grief. We have an extensive list of books and other reference materials which may help.
WHAT ARE THE SPECIAL SERVICES YOU PROVIDE?
One of the services we do is offer a vast selection of printed memorial packages. Families choose from many personalized memorial books, service folders, prayer cards, and acknowledgement cards, all custom-printed with the deceased's photo and personal information. We are the exclusive funeral home in this area to offer the THOMAS KINKADE series of memorial items. This package depicts the Garden of Promise setting, created by the world-renowned "Painter of Light." These items, which are personalized to the family's wishes are of the highest quality and create the finest in memorialization products, which can be cherished for years to come. We feel that families deserve as many choices as possible, in order to make the funeral service a meaningful experience.
HOW MUCH TIME NORMALLY PASSES BETWEEN DEATH AND FUNERAL SERVICES?
Like most funeral decisions, this is primarily up to the family, with some dependence on clergy, church, or funeral home schedules. Most families like to wait at least long enough in order for the obituary and service time to be announced, and some families need to postpone events until out-of-town relatives can travel home. On average, most families need a day to make the necessary funeral arrangements and selections, and to prepare for the funeral service. The visitation may be held the next day, with the funeral service on the third day. There is no "standard," however, as each family's needs and desires will vary.
IS CREMATION A SUBSTITUTE FOR A FUNERAL?
No, cremation is just an option to earth burial or entombment in a mausoleum for the body's final disposition and often follows a traditional viewing and funeral service. In fact, according to FTC figures for 1987, direct cremation occurred in only 3% of deaths.
WHEN BURYING URNS IN A CEMETERY, SHOULD THEY BE PLACED IN ANY TYPE OF BOX OR ENCLOSURE?
When burying cremated remains, most families desire, and some cemeteries require, that the urn be placed inside some type of outer container, or burial vault. Urn vaults are made of the same materials as vaults that are used for caskets. There are urn vaults made of metal, concrete, and fiberglass. Some vaults are lined with stainless steel, copper or bronze for additional protection. Vaults may be personalized, engraved, or designed with a particular theme such as a military vault. A full graveside service, including a tent and chairs, as well as a full automobile procession from the funeral home or church, is always an option.
IS YOUR BUSINESS REGULATED BY THE GOVERNMENT?
Yes, funeral service is regulated by several government agencies. The Ohio State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors monitors internships, gives examinations, and issues licenses to practice in the state of Ohio. The board also adopts administrative rules, based on laws passed by the Ohio legislature. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates how funeral prices are presented to the consumer, as well as other consumer trade practices. The occupational health and safety administration (OSHA) monitors workplace conditions for the safety and protection of employees. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors waste discharges. Some states have additional regulatory agencies. Governmental regulation protects the consumer and employees from unsafe and/or unfair practices and is a part of the overall cost of doing business.
WHO IS ACTUALLY IN CHARGE OF A FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT? IS IT THE EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE?
It may be the executor, but not necessarily. The person actually in charge is the next of kin, in which order is specifically spelled out by Ohio law 2105.06 Statute of descent and distribution. A spouse has ultimate control, followed by adult children, parents, and siblings. In the case of no spouse and several children, all the children must agree to the arrangements. The estate of the deceased is not usually involved in funeral arrangements, as the funeral will almost always precede any reading of a will and opening of an estate. There have been court cases involving children who did not agree as to funeral arrangements (burial vs. cremation), and services will be delayed until the court makes a decision. Fortunately, these cases are extremely rare.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT COSTS OF CASKETS?
Casket prices will vary depending on the material used in construction. The highest-priced caskets will be made of high quality semiprecious metals, such as bronze, copper and stainless steel. Middle- and lower-priced caskets are made of different thicknesses of carbon steel. Caskets are also available in solid hardwoods, such as mahogany, cherry, oak, pine, and other wood species. These caskets are priced in the same progression as fine furniture. Another factor involved in casket prices is the interior material, which is usually made of satin, crepe, or velvet. Other minor factors are the type of hardware or handles, and whether the casket has a protective seal or not. Our funeral home offers a wide variety of styles, colors, selections, and prices to meet everyone's needs and budget. We also have all of our caskets that we show at the funeral home on our webpage under Caskets Or for more information, go to Aurora Casket Company, or Reid Casket Company.
HOW COMMON IS IT TO BURY FAVORITE ITEMS IN A CASKET?
It is very common to bury special items in a casket with a loved one. Each family has its own thoughts and ideas as to what makes a service meaningful to them. Things like footballs, trophies, ball gloves, books, pictures drawn by the grandchildren, cigarettes, six packs of beer, photographs, and all kinds of jewelry are left inside. The ultimate decision rests with the family. There are no laws governing what can or cannot be buried. The casket itself can be personalized with customized lid panels reflecting a preferred theme, or embroidered with a family tree listing children's names or the name of the deceased, with birth date and death date.
WHOM DO I CONTACT IN THE EVENT OF A DEATH AT HOME?
First and foremost, if death is not certain, call 911 to dispatch emergency personnel. If death occurs under the attendance of hospice or home health care, the specific medical authority should be contacted immediately. They will pronounce the death and coordinate with the family physician before contacting us. If the death was in the least bit unanticipated, the appropriate law enforcement agency (police or sheriff) must be contacted in order to investigate. They will determine whether or not to contact the county coroner, who has the authority to order an autopsy if it is deemed necessary, or release the body to our funeral home.
WHERE DOES PREPAID MONEY GO, AND HOW IS IT HELD?
Funds prepaid for a funeral are strictly monitored and regulated by individual states. In Ohio, funds must be held by a third party, not the funeral home. There are primarily two manners in which to fund a funeral advance of need. One is by using a bank trust, the other is by using a prepaid insurance policy. Both methods usually employ a price guarantee on funeral home services and merchandise, and they both can be set up irrevocably, which can satisfy one of the requirements for Medicaid. Each is a completely safe method of funding.
WHAT TYPE OF SERVICE IS HELD FOR A DECEASED PERSON WHEN NO BODY IS RECOVERED FOR A VIEWING?
This is an excellent question in light of recent tragedies. When there are no remains available due to a non-recoverable situation, a memorial service may be held, at our chapel, a church, or some other location. The service can be like any other service, with music, scripture, a eulogy, a photo memory board, video presentation, or any other tribute which could be performed with a body present. Some families may elect to have a casket or urn present, which may be buried in a grave, and marked with a monument, giving the family a place to visit, grieve, and remember.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GRAVE LINER AND A BURIAL VAULT?
A grave liner is simply an unpainted concrete box, or a set of unpainted concrete slabs which, when put together, surround the casket in the grave. It is not intended to demonstrate any sealed protection at all to the casket and the remains. It is merely an outer container which will satisfy most cemetery requirements. A burial vault, by definition, is a sealed container which will afford some protection to the casket. A burial vault may also have an additional protective liner inside, made of either some synthetic material, or stainless steel, copper, or bronze. Some cemeteries require some kind of vault, perhaps only top seal vaults, either lined or unlined. For more information, go to Trigard Burial Vaults or Wilbert Burial Vaults
HOW DO I GO ABOUT DONATING MY BODY TO MEDICAL SCIENCE?
First of all, a medical institution will not accept a body for donation unless arrangements have been made in advance. A family may not arrange for donation at the time of death. Application must me made, and the proper forms filed with the school and the funeral home. The supply of cadavers usually exceeds the demand, so not all bodies are accepted. The family may usually arrange for a viewing and funeral service prior to the donation, or a simple memorial service may be scheduled. After the school is finished with the cadaver, usually one or two years, the cadaver is cremated and the cremains returned to the family for final disposition.
HOW DOES ONE DEAL WITH A LOVED ONE'S DEATH DURING THE HOLIDAYS??
Here are some basic points: be patient with yourself, let go of the oughts and shoulds. Be realistic. Expect grief to hurt, especially if there is an empty chair at the table. Don't try to hide or block bad moments, but be ready for them. Decide what is really important to you and prioritize everything. Listen to yourself and become aware of your needs, and let family and friends know how they can help you. Ask for help if you need it. Take care of yourself by exercising, eating right, and getting plenty of rest. Don't be afraid to change some holiday traditions this year, but don't toss everything out. Most of all, understand that heartaches will appear as you experience any holiday. Grief is not a sign of weakness nor a lack of faith. It is the price we pay for love.
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2105.06 Statute of descent and distribution.
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