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cremation services in Wheat Ridge, CO
Healing With a Grief Support Group

After your loved one’s cremation services in Wheat Ridge, CO., it can sometimes be difficult to know where to go to get help. You are grieving and going through a very difficult time. Your friends and family have the best of intentions, but just may not be able to help. They may struggle to find the right things to say or do. Because of this, you may find that you begin to isolate and seclude yourself from others. After all, it’s hard to be around other people that just don’t understand what you are feeling.

In times like these, you may need to surround yourself with people who are also grieving the loss of a loved one. People who understand the feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, and loss you may be experiencing.

Reaching out and finding a support group you can connect with can really help you start to heal. Luckily, today, there are a ton of options both for in-person groups as well as online. Before we talk about where to find these groups, let’s first talk about how in-person and online groups differ and which one might work best for you.

Should I Attend In-Person or Online?

Both in-person and online grief support groups can be amazing resources to help you in this difficult time. However, since these formats differ, some people may prefer one over the other.

For example, with in-person groups, you can create more of a connection with the other members of the group. You may even make friends with some of them and do things together outside of the group. However, these groups are held at a set day and time so if you have a busy schedule, it may be difficult to attend.

On the flip side, while online groups don’t allow that in-person connection, many, like Facebook groups, allow you to post and be involved anytime day or night. So, if you have a hectic schedule, a group like this where you can “pop in” when you have time, might be helpful.

Once you decide which option may be best for you, here are some places to contact :

  • Churches (In-person) – Many churches offer a variety of in-person groups and counseling. If you are a current member of a church, reach out to them and ask if there is anything available. If you do not belong to any certain church, that is okay as you do not need to be a member to attend these groups. Simply look up churches in your area and see if they have any grief support groups you can attend.
  • City Health Districts (In-person) Many cities offer in-person groups through the city health department. Simply call your local city health office and inquire about any groups or resources they may have.
  • Facebook (Online) There are hundreds of support groups on Facebook. Many of them are specific to the typecremation services in Wheat Ridge, CO of loss that has occurred such as “Grieving the loss of a dad”, or “Grieving widows”. These groups are free and typically aren’t structured like a group session would be, which may or may not be something you like.
  • GriefinCommon.com (Online) – This website is an online resource where you can have individual help as well as find group sessions. There is a slight cost with the group sessions running about $25. There are also many other sites like this one. Simply do a Google search and it will yield a long list of options.

Whichever type of group you find after your loved one’s cremation services in Wheat Ridge, CO. know that you are taking an important step. It is not always easy to reach out and seek help and in doing so you are already starting the healing process. If you need any further resources or help in any other way, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are always here to help.

funeral homes in Wheat Ridge, CO
How Funeral Services Help Us Heal

When talking to funeral homes in Wheat Ridge, CO. about services for your loved one who has passed, you may not realize just how important the funeral service is. Funerals are much more than just a way to say goodbye to our loved ones. These ceremonies also provide a system of support with our friends and family, allow us to reflect on the life of the deceased, and help us process the act of life and death.

If you are attending a funeral service for a friend or relative, let’s look a little deeper at some of the ways this ritual can help you in the healing process.

Acknowledge the Death

Although never easy, acknowledging the death of our loved ones is something we must face. Attending a funeral service helps us in facing and acknowledge the reality of death. It allows us to begin the process of grieving and do so in a safe space with friends and loved ones.

Be Surrounded by Support

With everyone at the service being there to show support and respect for the deceased and their family, it creates a wonderful space for support and love. Funerals allow everyone to feel this love and support and realize they are not alone in their grief. It’s a wonderful place to come together and help one another during this difficult time.

Pay Tribute to the Person Who Passed

During the services, there will most likely be eulogies given and perhaps other stories of the deceased will be shared. This gives everyone a chance to remember the loved one and hear stories about them that they may not have heard before.

As the services end, many people may stay behind sharing stories and more memories of the deceased. This gives a wonderful opportunity to really honor and pay tribute to the loved one and their life.

Ceremonies Give Us Comfort

With funeral services being a ritual or ceremony, this in itself can bring us comfort. With ceremonies having a structure, and a specific order of things, it can provide a sense of ease. In this difficult and uncertain time, having a ceremony that follows a structured outline can make us feel a little more stable and grounded. We know what to expect and we have something to focus on and follow.

Help Us Begin to Healfuneral homes in Wheat Ridge, CO

Funeral services are a way to say goodbye to the deceased and realize and accept the loss. These services also mark a time when we begin to heal. While the healing process will look different for everybody, the funeral service and being surrounded by love and support is a wonderful way to begin the journey.

Final Thoughts

Funeral services are ceremonies that not only pay tribute to the deceased but also allow friends and family members to be surrounded by love and support. When you are discussing services with funeral homes in Wheat Ridge, CO. know that this ceremony will help begin the grieving and healing process and is an important step in the journey, as it will help provide support, healing, acknowledgment, and closure.

funeral homes in Lakewood, CO
How to Make Your Loved One’s Headstone Unique

When making your funeral arrangements with funeral homes in Lakewood, CO., you are going to want to make the services personal and unique to them and their life. Many people carry this idea further by creating a headstone for their grave that is also very unique and customized to their loved one. If you would like to create a headstone that is one-of-a-kind for your loved one, there are many ways to do so. We are going to explore some of the most common design elements you can customize for your loved one’s headstone.

Headstone Shape and Design

One of the most prominent features of the headstone is its shape. With modern cutting and carving techniques, headstones can be shaped into just about any shape and design imaginable. Whether the family prefers a more traditional and elegant design such as a square or rounded top shape, other families may opt for something more free-flowing and choose a wavy or curvy design. Some other options for shapes include:

  • Oval with checks
  • Oval with shoulders
  • Ogee top
  • Half-round
  • Peon with checks
  • Offset peon top

Choosing the Headstone Color

The color of the headstone is the next design element to consider as it will make the most impact after the shape. The color choices will most likely depend on what material you choose but colors can often be found including rose, green, gray, black, red, and more. You can also choose to have the headstone include more than one color.

Font Choices

Not only will what is written on the headstone convey information such as your loved one’s name, date of birth, date of passing, etc., but will also affect the overall design aesthetic of the headstone.

The font you choose will play a part in the feel of the monument. For example, if you choose a curvy, cursive font, it appears to be more elegant and classy. While a very strong block font will give the appearance of being very rigid. Whichever font you choose, you want to make sure you do not sacrifice legibility for design. The font may look great, but if you can’t read what the words say, then go with another choice.

Additional Elements

Adding additional elements can really make the headstone unique to your loved one and stand out. Some additional items you could add include:funeral homes in Lakewood, CO

  • Portrait engraved directly on the stone
  • Sculptural elements such as a heart, cross, bird, angels, wings, etc.
  • A porcelain image being applied
  • A Bench added to the headstone
  • Vases included in the headstone design

Check With Your Cemetery

Before making any final decisions on the design of the headstone, always check with the cemetery first. This is because many cemeteries have rules on what is and what isn’t allowed. They may have regulations on what type of material the headstone can be or even what symbols are allowed. If you need additional help, headstone providers as well as funeral directors from funeral homes in Lakewood, CO. can assist you.

funeral homes in Denver, CO
A Guide to Porcelain Memorial Portraits

While once headstones only had options of what shape they came in as well as what was engraved on them, today there are several different ways families can personalize their loved one’s headstone. One such way is with porcelain portraits. These are wonderful additions as they can be added to the headstone at any time meaning that a family can add this personal touch to an existing headstone. As directors of funeral homes in Denver, CO. we often get asked about these embellishments so today we are answering some of the most commonly asked questions.

What Exactly is a Porcelain Memorial Portrait?

If you are not familiar with a porcelain memorial portrait, it is simply an image that is placed on a piece of porcelain and attached externally to a headstone. These porcelain portraits are made from a porcelain tablet that is baked to over 800 degrees Celsius. They are durable and stand up well to the elements. Due to their durability, many manufacturers offer a lifetime guarantee.

What Shapes and Sizes are Available?

Porcelain portraits can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular shares are oval, rectangular, round, and heart-shaped. They can also be created in custom shapes. The same is true when it comes to sizes. Some providers may have standard sizes but these portraits can be made in custom sizes as well.

Are the Porcelain Portraits in Color?

Yes. While some families may choose to have the portrait created in black and white, these embellishments are available in color. While sometimes color is subject to fading over time, these portraits hold their color fairly well due to the fact the color pigment is added during the heating process making it very durable against fading.

How to Choose the Best Photo to Create the Portrait

While each porcelain memorial portrait provider may be able to offer slightly different options and/or services, there are a few things that are pretty universal when it comes to the image of the portrait. These things are:

  • The background can typically be removedfuneral homes in Denver, CO
  • Normally the image will need to be in a digital format and be a .jpeg file of at least 300 dpi
  • The colors of the end product may not match the photo exactly due to the pigments and the high temperatures they are heated to
  • It’s best to use the original photo if at all possible
  • Slight retouching and alterations can sometimes be done to the image
  • The image many times can be flipped (mirror image)
  • Black and white images can be colorized
  • The porcelain piece can be in the portrait or the landscape format

Final Thoughts

As directors of funeral homes in Denver, CO., we are often asked about ways to personalize services and headstones. We understand as you want your loved one’s final arrangements to be as unique as they were. Porcelain portraits are a wonderful way to add a personal touch to their headstone and show the world how wonderful your loved one was.

cemetery in Aurora, CO
How to Care For Your Loved One’s Gravesite

Gravesites are a very special place. They are the final resting place for your loved one. They are also a place where you and others will visit when you wish to feel close and connected to the deceased. Because of how special this space is, you will want to ensure its beauty and upkeep throughout the years. While your cemetery in Aurora, CO. may have grounds maintenance, it is nice to know how to take care of your loved one’s gravesite yourself as well to ensure it is always up to your standards.

Caring for the Headstone

Your loved one’s headstone is an important feature of the gravesite. This tribute serves as a monument to them as well as holds important information such as their name and dates of birth and passing. You want to keep the headstone clean and in good condition. Depending on the material of the headstone, you may need different supplies or a different cleaning technique. Some popular materials and the best method of cleaning are:

Marble Headstones

  • Start by soaking the stone in water. This can be done by using a spray bottle, hose, or bucket.
  • Create a mixture of ammonium hydroxide and water at a 1:4 ratio. Then, using a soft-bristled brush apply the mixture and gently scrub the headstone.
  • Rinse the headstone thoroughly with water

Granite, Sandstone, Slate Headstones

  • Soak the entire headstone with clean water
  • Use a non-ionic detergent and mix one ounce to 5 gallons of water
  • Use a soft-bristled brush and gently scrub the headstone
  • Make sure to rinse completely with clean water

Maintaining the Overall Site

As mentioned, most cemeteries will have groundskeepers to perform tasks such as mowing the grass, trimming trees, etc., but the maintenance of the individual sites is many times left to the families. You can keep the site looking nice by doing things such as:

  • Raking leaves
  • Trimming grass edges
  • Pulling weeds
  • Picking up sticks or other debris
  • Add grass seeds to any bare patches
  • Water the site

Gravesite Decorationscemetery in Aurora, CO

While adding a flag, flowers, or another décor to a gravesite can be a lovely memento for your loved one, always make sure to check with the cemetery for what items are (and aren’t) allowed. The same is true for materials of vases for flowers as many cemeteries will not allow glass or other materials to be used. This is because if they break or get damaged they can pose a safety risk to visitors and groundskeepers. Always check with your cemetery before leaving anything at the site.

If you live too far from the cemetery in Aurora, CO. to visit it and care for it regularly, there are typically options for extra services from the cemetery as well as other providers who will maintain the site for you. They will charge a fee but it is well worth it knowing your loved one’s gravesite is being maintained and cared for.

cemetery in Wheat Ridge, CO
Steps to Take When a Death Has Occurred

The moments immediately following a loved one’s death can be filled with confusion, loss, and uncertainty. At first, the situation may seem not real; like a bad dream. You may not know what to do or who to contact. Although eventually, you will make arrangements with a cemetery in Wheat Ridge, CO., there are many steps that need to be taken before that. To help you know what to do when your loved one passes, keep reading as we break down the tasks and when they should be completed.

(Immediately) Get a Declaration of Death

The first thing you will need to do when your loved one passes is to acquire a legal pronouncement of death; a death certificate. This can be done by calling 911 and having the ambulance transport your loved one to the emergency room where a doctor can then make the declaration of the passing. If your loved one was in a retirement or assisted living home, then typically, the staff there will take care of this for you.

(Immediately) Notify the Family

Following your loved one being pronounced as having passed, you will then need to notify other family members. Understandably, this can be a very difficult phone call to make. However, it is important that other family members are informed. If you don’t feel up to making several phone calls, notify one family member and ask them to let the others know.

(Within the Next Few Days) Plan The Arrangements

In the days following the passing, you will need to decide on the arrangements for your loved one. This will include things like what type of body disposition you would like for them to have as well as planning any services.

(In the following days) Secure Their Home and Propertycemetery in Wheat Ridge, CO

In the next few days, you will also need to ensure your loved one’s home is safe and secure. Doing things like making sure doors and windows are locked, taking perishable food out of the refrigerator, and making sure any valuables are secure will ensure their home is taken care of.

(In the Following Weeks) Secure All of Their Accounts

It is a good idea to have your loved one’s mail forwarded to your address so that you can begin looking at their bills and other accounts. This will help you know what you will need to take care of. These accounts can include things like car loans, house payments, credit cards, and more.

While this can all seem like a lot to handle, and the truth is told, it is, remember it doesn’t have to all be done at one time. Just take each step at once, breathe, and then go on to the next task. Also, make sure to ask other family members to help with whatever they may be able to. This will take some of the burdens off of you.

Along with making arrangements with a cemetery in Wheat Ridge, CO, there are many other things that need to be taken care of when your loved one passes. Because of this, and the grief you are feeling, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Just know that we are here to help and remember to just take it to step by step.

cremation services in Thornton, CO
Paperwork to Gather Before Your Parents Pass

As we get older, our roles with our parents often change. We start out with them taking care of us as we grow up and become adults. Then, as time goes on and we ourselves become older, we being to take on the parental role making sure our parents are safe and looked out after. One element that is sometimes difficult to face is that they will not be with us forever. While they are, providers of cremation services in Thornton, CO. suggest talking with them about their last wishes as well as gathering up any important documents.

If you aren’t sure exactly what documents you should talk to your parents about, we have compiled a small list of some of the most important. Of course, every family and individual will have different circumstances, but this should give you a good starting point.

Medical Documents

These documents include papers that will help your loved ones should you need to be in the hospital or have medical care. They include:

  • An Advance Health Care Directive – This document is a combination of their Living Will and the naming of a Health Care Proxy
  • Do Not Resuscitate Orders (DNR) – If it is their wish that doctors do not try and resuscitate them, they will need to fill out this DNR order.
  • HIPAA Authorization – This is to allow their private health information to be released to the parties they name.

Financial Documents

It is important to make sure if your parents become unable to care for themselves you have certain documents allowing you control over their finances. Also, you will need to make sure to talk with them and gather things such as:

  • A Financial Power of Attorney (POA) – This document is imperative in assigning someone to handle their finances if they are unable to do so
  • Tax Returns – Make sure they have these available for you. No more than the past six years should be needed.
  • Vehicle Titles – Gather any and all vehicle titles they may have.
  • Stock Certificates – Gather any documents related to stocks they own or savings bonds
  • Any Deeds – Deeds such as housing, cemetery, or land
  • Loans and Payments – Documents showing any loans they have as well as payments made
  • 401(k) – Papers relating to their 401(k) and retirement accounts

Personal Documentscremation services in Thornton, CO

While this isn’t a complete list and your parents may have more or less depending on their life circumstances, here are some personal documents to keep in mind:

  • Marriage License – Gather documents showing they have been married and/or divorced
  • List of Passwords – Compile a list of passwords for accounts as well as login codes for items such as their computer and phone
  • Digital Estate Plan – This document outlines how they would like your social media accounts to be handled
  • Last Will and Testament – This will appoint those who will inherit their assets if no beneficiary is named on an account
  • Letter of Instruction – This document instructs how they would like their last wishes to be carried out such as where they would like to be buried.

Providers of cremation services in Thornton, CO. understand it can be a difficult conversation when it comes to talking with your parents about their passing. However, making sure all documents and paperwork are in order before they pass will be so beneficial to you and them in the long run.

funeral homes in Thornton, CO
Casket Wraps: Creating a One-of-a-Kind Casket

Caskets today come in a variety of materials as well as styles. This is such a wonderful opportunity for families to choose options that truly reflect their loved one’s style and tastes. Another, newer option that is catching on is personalizing the deceased’s casket with a casket wrap. If you aren’t familiar with the customization option, directors of funeral homes in Thornton, CO. share what you need to know.

What is a Casket Wrap?

A casket wrap is a piece of vinyl that has been designed with a pattern, logo, portrait of the deceased, or any other image the family requests. The piece of vinyl is then applied to the casket with a process that gives the illusion of the actual casket itself being printed with the image. With the wrap being able to be so personalized, it is a very effective way to make the casket truly unique to your loved one.

Why Choose a Casket Wrap?

One reason that families may choose to have their loved one’s casket adorned with a vinyl wrap is that it can allow the family to create a truly one-of-a-kind casket for their loved one. With just about any image being able to apply, one family could have a casket that has a background pattern of flowers while another family may choose to have an image of a flag covering the casket.

And although there is the cost of the vinyl wrap, families may also be able to save a little money. They can do this by choosing a less expensive material for the casket since it will be covered by the wrap.

How Does the Process Work?funeral homes in Thornton, CO

While you can purchase casket wraps from a number of various dealers, the process for designing and installing them is fairly the same. The typical order will go something like this:

  • Communication – Contacting the company and talking with them about things like the date and location of the service is an important first step as it ensures the wrap can be designed and delivered on time.
  • Placing Your Order – Once you and the provider have agreed on the timeframe and any other issues, you will place your order either online or over the phone with them.
  • Design – Most providers will have options of stock images and designs you can use as well as offer customized designs. You will work with the provider and create the design. You may need to provide digital images or photographs to the provider.
  • Printing – The provider will then print the casket wrap on the vinyl material.
  • Shipping – If the provider is not local, they will then ship the wrap to your location.
  • Installing – Local providers will then apply the wrap to the casket. If the provider is not local, they will typically have a local 3rd party installer apply the wrap.

Final Thoughts

Vinyl wraps are not new as you have most likely seen them being used on commercial vans and cars. However, casket wraps are a newer and growing trend. With the ability to truly create a one-of-a-kind casket for your loved one, it is no wonder these wraps are so popular. Directors of funeral homes in Thornton, CO. can help you learn more about these wraps and if it is a good choice for your loved one’s casket.

cremation services in Aurora, CO
A Short Guide to Mausoleums

If you want to place your loved one’s remains in a cemetery after their cremation services in Aurora, CO., one option you have is to have them placed in a mausoleum. While mausoleums can be found in many cemeteries all over the world, many people are still unfamiliar with them or the benefits they can provide. Today we are going to talk about mausoleums and what you need to know about them to help you decide if it’s the best option for you and your family.

What is a Mausoleum?

For those who are not familiar, a mausoleum is a free-standing structure that is built to house the remains of the deceased. An urn would consist of an enclosing for interment and with a burial, this space would be a burial chamber.

Types of Mausoleums

There are several types of mausoleums families can choose from. The most common include:

  • Garden (or Outside) Mausoleums – These structures are typically a shared space where the crypts and enclosures are located outdoors
  • Indoor Mausoleums – This is a shared space where the crypts and enclosures are located indoors
  • Private Mausoleums – These are private spaces typically for a family. These can be indoor or outdoor spaces.

Why Families May Choose a Mausoleum Over Ground Burial

There are several reasons why families may choose to place their loved one’s cremated remains in a mausoleum rather than bury them. Some of the most common reasons we see include:

  • Mausoleums can offer a quiet place to visit and honor their loved one
  • These structures can provide a very distinct and elaborate memorial
  • Mausoleums offer an alternative to using cemetery grounds which are becoming more scarce
  • With indoor mausoleums, family and friends can visit their loved ones and be protected from the elements while doing so

How Does a Mausoleum Burial Work?

A mausoleum burial or interment works much like a traditional ground burial. Family and friends gather at the cemetery after the funeral service for a committal ceremony. After this ceremony, the urn with the deceased’s ashes is then interred in the mausoleum. Depending on the mausoleum, it may or may not be accessible after it is closed at the end of the internment.

How Much Do Mausoleums Cost?cremation services in Aurora, CO

Knowing how much a mausoleum or an urn enclosure inside one will cost is difficult as there are so many variables that can affect the price. For a private, custom-built mausoleum, they can range from a single-person one at about $35,000 to those that can house an entire family for around $300,000 all the way to $600,000 or even more. Of course, this price would be much less for an enclosure space in a public mausoleum.

Final Thoughts

Mausoleums can make a wonderful choice for those who may wish to choose cremation as their form of disposition yet still be laid to rest in a cemetery. With several types and prices to choose from, families have several options.

If you would like more information about mausoleums or spaces inside after your loved one’s cremation services in Aurora, CO, give us a call today. We are happy to answer all of your questions.

funeral homes in Aurora, CO
Why Movement Is Important When Grieving

Dealing with grief is challenging. If not handled and worked through in a healthy way, it can lead to isolation and deeper depression. Even though it may be difficult to think about your own mental wellness at this time, it is crucial to ensure you process everything in the most healthy way possible. One way to help with your grief is by being physically active. Directors of funeral homes in Aurora, CO. explain how movement can help you while grieving.

Movement Can Help Your Mind

Dealing with grief can be draining on your mind. Constantly experiencing all of the intense feelings of sadness can be emotionally draining. Movement can be a much-welcomed and needed distraction. The good news is that this movement doesn’t have to be anything over the top to gain these mental benefits. Anything from taking a walk around your neighborhood to going to a yoga class can give your mind a much-needed break. Participating in these activities and being mindful while doing so can act as a wonderful distraction.

Movement Allows an Outlet for Emotions

The emotions you will experience while grieving will be intense and range from sadness to anger or even fear. Movement is a wonderful way to get these emotions out. For example, if you are angry, join a kickboxing class or boxing. Use that anger and let it all out on the heavy bag. If you feel jittery or anxious, go for a run and burn off that nervous energy. Although we are often taught not to give in to feelings of anger and other emotions, as long as we can express them in a healthy way like this, it can be beneficial to face them head-on.

Movement Elevates Your Mood

The movement had been proven to help release chemicals in your brain which help elevate your overall mood. Now, you still may feel sadness, but by moving your body you can help your mood be a little more balanced. Once more, elevating your mood can help you better handle any stresses that come along your way.

Movement Helps You Sleep Betterfuneral homes in Aurora, CO

We all know how important it is to get a good night’s rest but many people still don’t. This can be especially true when we are experiencing grief as our routine may be off and our lack of motivation for self-care can come into play. Adding movement into your day can help you relax and feel more tired so you are able to get those much-needed hours of sleep.

Movement Feels Good

Last, but certainly not least, moving your body just feels good. We were meant to move. That is how our bodies are designed. When we lay down or sit for too long at a time we get stiff and uncomfortable. It can also spiral out of control with the longer we sit, the longer want to sit. Get up and move your body. Even if it is just to clean your kitchen, do laundry, or rake the yard.

We hope these reasons have inspired you to add movement to your day. As directors of funeral homes in Aurora, CO. we know it can be tough to find the motivation so if you need additional help, consider asking a friend or family member to be an accountability partner.

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*** Cemetery Spring Cleanup in April and May. Families are encouraged to remove any items that are not within the guidelines and that compromise the 8” restriction in front of monuments. ***

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