For many families in Milwaukee, New Berlin, and Brookfield, the coronavirus outbreak dramatically changed the way they said goodbye to loved ones who died.
No more visitations with guests giving one another handshakes and hugs to offer support. No more big public funerals as loved ones near and far gather to cry and laugh, linger, and reminisce. No more receptions filled with family and friends sharing memories and a meal.
Instead, there was social distancing and ever-changing state mandates limiting the number of people permitted at a gathering. There were obituaries ending with the words, “A celebration of life will be held at a later date.” There were families who weren’t sure when or how – of even if – they would pay tribute to their loved one who meant so much.
At Krause Funeral Home, we immediately adapted to these restrictions and were thankful that technology could help fill the void. We brought our livestreaming services front and center. Family and friends could watch the funeral happening live, all from the comfort and safety of home. They could also watch a recording of the service at their convenience. This was a way for loved ones to honor the person who died without actually being there in person.
We even offered the option to make funeral plans virtually. This way, anyone could join in on the arrangement meeting online, whether they logged on from Milwaukee or across the country.
Fast forward to today as most restrictions have been lifted, and families are now wondering if they can still get together to have a funeral or memorial for their loved one who died months ago. The answer is a definite YES – and it’s an answer we feel strongly about for a number of reasons we’ll get to in a minute.
But first, we do want you to know that families can have a funeral regardless of whether their loved one was cremated or had a traditional burial. You can hold a service at any location, including our four funeral homes throughout Milwaukee. No matter when the death occurred, we can plan the unforgettable farewell your loved one deserved.
Why Have a Funeral?
We know how important it is to hold a ritual where family and friend can gather to process their loss. This is an essential step in the grief process for a number of reasons.
Funerals are a way to honor a loved one’s memory.
Reflecting on a loved one’s interests, accomplishments, and hobbies is a healing experience for family and friends. Going through those old photos for a video tribute, collecting beloved items for the memory table, and selecting that perfect piece of music helps you focus on what your loved one meant to you and the world around them. A service that is highly personalized brings its own form of closure as you remember what made your loved one unique and special.
Funerals are an opportunity for support from those around you.
Visitations, funerals, burials, and receptions bring people together. This provides a measure of love and support for the family, and often, seeing that others care can help with the adjustment after a loss.
Funerals help friends and family accept their loss.
Facing the reality of death and mourning in a safe and supportive environment is critical to the grieving process. Death is complex, and the emotions involved can be tough to navigate. A funeral is a specific time to acknowledge the reality and finality of death and begin facing the pain that comes with it.
Funerals bring closure.
Funerals bring a sense of closure, as they allow loved ones to cry, reflect, and concentrate on feelings about death. The service is also a way to publicly express how much a person meant and how deeply they will be missed.
If your loved one died sometime in 2020 or 2021, remember that a funeral can be as special as your loved one. It can be traditional and religious – or unique and customized to fit your needs. You don’t have to follow what’s “always been done.” You can do things your way, whether that means having a celebrant instead of a member of the clergy, or planning a champagne or beer toast.
After such a challenging year, we want to be sure you receive the encouragement and help you need. We’ve been there for families in the Milwaukee area for more than 80 years now and have many options available so you can say goodbye in a way that is meaningful to you.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help anytime.