INDUSTRY INSIGHT
FUNERAL SERVICES
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I don ’ t want to be a burden and saying goodbye .
Recently , I helped a family who lost their dad . He wanted a simple cremation , no viewing or big ceremony . He said , “ Don ’ t worry about me , don ’ t waste money .” The family felt conflicted . They wanted to follow his wishes but felt they needed time to say goodbye .
So , we found a way to honor the dad ’ s wishes and the family ’ s feelings while staying within their budget . We cremated the dad as he requested . Then , to help with their goodbyes , we held a “ gathering ” at the funeral home . It wasn ’ t a formal service , just a casual time for family and friends to share stories and comfort each other . Over 100 people came ! This gathering helped the family immensely while still respecting their dad ’ s wishes and their budget .
Many families are choosing simpler funerals these days . They might say things like , “ I don ’ t want to be a burden ,” and prefer a quick burial or cremation . While wanting to avoid burdening loved ones is understandable , it ’ s important to consider how this might affect their grieving process .
Traditionally , funerals involved viewings and church services , but things are changing . More families are opting for simpler celebrations of life , often after cremation has taken place . While some people prefer to keep things simple , it ’ s important to remember that saying goodbye and remembering a loved one can be essential to healing .
Here are some ideas for a simple yet meaningful farewell :
• Memorial service : This can be held at a funeral home , church , or a special place connected to the deceased . It can be a casual gathering to share stories and memories .
• Gathering of friends and family : This gathering allows loved ones to offer comfort and support to each other . Pictures and displays might celebrate the person ’ s life , and their urn is typically on display .
• Combined service : Sometimes , a gathering can be combined with a service .
• Traditional viewing with cremation : This allows for a final goodbye followed by cremation .
It ’ s important to note that cremation doesn ’ t mean giving up a viewing if you wish to have one . Many families still find value in saying goodbye at the funeral home . You can still have a viewing and choose cremation as disposition .
Additionally , families choosing cremation need to consider what they want to do with the urn containing the cremated remains . This decision can be difficult if not planned beforehand . There are many options available for the final home of the urn .
Remember , while simple funerals are becoming more common , there are still ways to honor your loved one ’ s memory in a meaningful way that allows you and your family to begin the healing process . Even though it can be challenging to discuss beforehand , it can be essential .
At Sperling Funeral Home , we understand that every family is different and has unique wishes . That ’ s why we offer a variety of options to help you create a meaningful experience , all while staying comfortable and within your budget .
Unlike some older funeral homes , our space is bright and open , with different rooms of various sizes to choose from . We want everyone to feel comfortable and at ease during this difficult time . Many families tell us that spending time here feels different from traditional funeral homes , and more like a celebration of their loved one ’ s life and memories . We ’ re proud to play a part in helping our community redefine what a funeral can be .
If you have questions about us or our services , please feel free to call or find us on Facebook . You can also learn more about our family and services by visiting : sperlingfuneral . com
700 Blazier Dr . • Wexford , PA 15090 Jarett D . Sperling , Supervisor 724.933.9200
NORTH ALLEGHENY | SPRING 2024 15