Rich in history and rife with symbolism, the funeral ceremony helps us acknowledge the reality of the death, gives testimony to the life of the deceased, encourages the expression of grief in a way consistent with the culture’s values, provides support to mourners, allows for the embracing of faith and beliefs about life and death, and offers continuity and hope for the living.
- Dr. Alan Wolfelt, leading death educator, grief counselor, and author
This time is set aside for family and friends to gather together to say goodbye while being in the comfort of those closest to them. We can personalize the visitation to be as unique as your loved one with a tribute video, items or displays that were important to your loved one, and other special touches that would represent your loved one and their unique life.
A funeral is typically held soon after a death, with the body present. The service can occur in our chapel, a church, or any other venue a family chooses. We work with you to design a personalized service that honors your loved one with stories, music, readings, and other special features.
It is important to note that you can still have a viewing, visitation or wake, and funeral service when choosing cremation. However, instead of an in-ground burial immediately after the service, the funeral will be followed by the cremation. Depending on your wishes, the cremated remains may either be returned to your family or placed in a final resting place.
A memorial service differs from a funeral service in that the body is not present, and it is often held a bit later in the days or weeks following a death. Similar to a funeral service, friends and families gather to remember, honor, and celebrate a life lived.
A graveside or committal service can be open to all friends and family, or it can be a small, intimate gathering for those closest to you. The service can include special music, readings, prayers, stories, or other special features to create a meaningful goodbye.
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© West-Kjos Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
© West-Kjos Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.