Here at Krause Funeral Home, our compassionate staff understands the importance of planning and organizing a memorial service or funeral. The ritual of a funeral allows many people the opportunity to process their grief in a public, supported environment. Some of our neighbors in New Berlin, Brookfield, and Milwaukee prefer to forego a funeral for one reason or another. When no funeral takes place, it can be difficult for those left behind to experience the closure that so many long for after a loved one’s death.
Here are some alternative options for memorializing the person who died in a meaningful way.
Arrange a get-together at your loved one’s favorite spot.
This get-together can be as simple as a catered lunch at the restaurant they used to frequent or a picnic at the park where they used to walk. No matter where you gather to commemorate your loved one, try decorating the area to mirror your loved one’s personality. Perhaps you incorporate your loved one’s favorite color or their favorite sports mascot into the gathering spot.
Publish an obituary or death announcement.
Sharing your loved one’s life in the form of a personalized obituary or death announcement can be a great way to honor their memory. Consider placing the obituary in the local paper or on social media. Be sure to include their key accomplishments and memorable life events.
Organize an interactive tribute.
An interactive tribute can be as simple as a memory book incorporating letters written by family and friends to your loved one or as elaborate as planting a tree or patch of flowers in a special location. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends in organizing your tribute. Involving your loved one’s community of family and friends in a creative activity can be a wonderful way to connect and bond during a difficult time.
Put together a slideshow of photos or a memorial book for your loved one.
There’s often a visual component to modern funerals and memorial services. A digital slideshow presentation or printed images can be put on display for family and friends in attendance. To honor your loved one, assemble a slideshow of photos to post to social media or to share with family and friends.
Write a poem or song for your loved one.
Channel your inner artist and write a poem or song to honor your loved one. This can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Try to be as authentic as possible and don’t be afraid to express your feelings about your loved one.
For more ways to personalize a funeral or memorial or for information on grief support services, contact our knowledgeable team today.