5 Ways to Help Your Family Remember You

Sometimes words said thousands of years ago hold just as much meaning today, like this quote from Marcus Tullius Cicero: “The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living.” This resonates with our staff at Krause Funeral Homes, as we meet with people every day in Milwaukee, New Berlin, and Brookfield who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

A valuable part of the grieving process is celebrating the life that was lived through experiencing a personalized, meaningful funeral service. When you put your own funeral arrangements in place, you can actually play a role in your loved ones’ healing process. Think about what you could include to make it a special moment for your family and friends. How can you incorporate your personality, passions, and accomplishments in a way your family will never forget? How can you communicate your love for them? At Krause, our staff has the expert knowledge to help you put such a funeral plan in place.

Here are a few ideas as you consider:

Distribute a keepsake item

Giving a small gift to funeral attendees is another personal touch your loved ones will appreciate. If you’re a gardener, we can have packets of seeds on hand. Do you have a favorite recipe, poem, or quote? We can distribute a printed copy to each guest – even in your own handwriting. Our team will help you think of a hand-out that can act as a lasting reminder of your life.

Add unique personal touches to the service

We can help you weave your interests, passions, and accolades into the funeral with a photo or video tribute, music selections you’ve enjoyed over the years, or a poem, quote, or story that always meant a lot to you. We’ve had car enthusiasts ask for their favorite car to be parked in the funeral home entrance, and collectors request a display of their stamps or books or memorabilia. Motorcycle enthusiasts often choose to make their final ride on our Harley motorcycle hearse. The possibilities to celebrate what makes your life unique are endless and the reminders of who you are throughout the service will bring comfort to attendees’ hearts.

Hold a reception after the funeral

Family and friends often find healing at the reception, gathering in a more relaxed environment, sharing stories, and even a meal. At Krause Funeral Homes, you can craft a memorable event featuring buffet sandwiches, salads, soft drinks, hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine – all in the comforts of our facility. Picture your loved ones enjoying your favorite Sunday dinner while telling stories about your life that begin with the special phrase, “Remember when…” 

Choose a meaningful permanent memorial

Whether you opt for cremation or burial, there are many permanent memorialization selections that will be meaningful to those you leave behind. We offer keepsake jewelry that holds a portion of the cremated remains inside, or a special line of beautifully crafted necklaces, bracelets, pins, or other jewelry with an imprint of a thumbprint in the center. Some prefer a customized gravestone or urn, or a plaque or bench sponsored in their name set at a location of their choosing. It’s a place for your loved ones to return to again and again and remember you.

So, how will you tell your story with your pre-arrangements? If you’re ready to get started, you can find our planning checklist on our website, and you can even start planning online from wherever you’re most comfortable. Of course, if you have questions, or would like to plan in person with someone, just reach out to our compassionate and experienced team any time.

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