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A DVA N C E D PL A N N I N G & Final Arrangements Guide WELCOME TO THE TRINITY FUNERAL HOME Bereavement & Funeral Planning Guide Planning a funeral can become overwhelming; CONTENTS however, please rest assured that we are here to 2. About us help you every step of the way. We will answer your questions and offer reassurance as you 4. Travel assurance embark on this emotional journey. 10. Pre-planning Our professional experience and training, 13. Funeral funding together with our own personal experiences, 14. Funeral arrangements means that we understand what you are going 15. What is a funeral? through and will make the process as smooth as possible. 17. Practical information for your family 22. Product selection Here at Trinity Funeral Home, we believe 24. Green burials a funeral is a time to honour the life of the deceased and celebrate the heritage of the 28. Honoring the lives of those who serve family. It is an important time for relatives and 32. Helping a friend cope with loss friends to gather, tell stories, acknowledge loss, 33. Experiencing grief and support each other. 34. Expressions of sympathy It would be our greatest privilege to help you 36. Frequently asked questions prepare a respectful, fulfilling experience that 38. What to do: A checklist meets the individual needs of your family and 40. To my family and loved ones your loved ones. 48. Recommended Partners We pride ourselves on giving the very best service to the families that we serve. We aim to: • Replace confusion with calm • Add certainty to doubt THIS FUNERAL GUIDE HAS BEEN DESIGNED AND PUBLISHED BY • Provide answers to questions • Create a fitting memorial for your loved one Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content in this guide, Mabel & Mabel are not liable for the accuracy of any content recieved from 3rd parties. All content within this guide is copyright of Mabel & Mabel Media and Please take a moment to read through this it may not be reproduced in any format without prior permission. brochure; we hope you will find it to be an If you wish to feature in the next publication, please contact us on informative guide to the services and options (917) 993-9898 info@mabelandmabel.com mabelandmabel.com available from us. If you are in immediate need of assistance, or require any further information, then please do not hesitate to call us. 1 A LITTLE ABOUT US... here at Trinity Funeral Home Trinity Funeral Home was founded in October At the core of our unique service model 2009 under the premise that a funeral home is our “No hidden fee guarantee”. We will can exist which is able to offer families never misrepresent ourselves nor will we extraordinary professional service and quality ever mislead you at any point of contact with merchandise at an affordable and reasonable us. Unfortunately, the funeral industry is price. We have been successful in achieving notorious for quoting prices over the phone this goal by creating and introducing a unique in order to ‘lead’ you into their establishment concept to funeral service in Edmonton… only to change things when you arrive. Our staff members will ask what you are looking First and foremost, we are a family owned for and “listen” to your requests. We are here and operated business. Our only priority is to serve you and what we quote you on the the families we serve. We are neither bound phone will be the same when you walk through by, nor directed by a corporate mandate our doors regardless of which of our Funeral and we do not report to shareholders or Directors you speak with. Our candid approach a society’s board of directors. This allows to funeral service is our greatest strength. us to control every aspect of our business; from ensuring we have the lowest prices Trinity Funeral Home has been the catalyst of to hiring the proper staff to provide the many changes in the Funeral Service Industry, highest level of service to our families. and our unique concept to funeral service has been emulated not only in Edmonton but The people we select to employ at Trinity across Alberta. We are now recognized as are passionate about their careers and the Funeral Home in Edmonton to offer all serving families is their calling. From your three elements of quality, service and price. first contact with Trinity until the time your loved one has been buried or cremated, From our humble beginnings with a small you can expect to be treated with a level of location in North Edmonton to where professionalism and attention to detail that we are today, in the heart of Downtown is unparalleled in the industry. We truly have Edmonton, our vision remains the same. your best interests at heart and you will …being “everything a funeral never be rushed, misled or upsold in any way. home should be…” We can be reached by phone: 7 8 0 - 4 74 - 4 6 6 3 or by email: INFO@TRINITYFH.COM Or our website can be viewed at: TRINITYFUNERALHOME.CA 2 | Recommended Partner | T R AVE L A S S U R A N C E With Trinity Funeral Home So many Canadians are away from home these days for business, family visits and recreation. Traveling has become second nature to most of us G UA R A N T E E D T R AVE L Insurance and Financial Advice You Can Trust and we tend to forget that when we’re away from ASSURANCE PLAN home… anything can happen. Lifetime Membership $425 USD including GST • Although we are extremely experienced in repatriation services – there are some Key benefits of this VERY The Red Seal Financial team is here for you. things a person should be aware of… AFFORDABLE lifetime plan include: Let us help you with expert financial advice. • A funeral home, where the death • Return of deceased from anywhere in occurred, needs to be contacted and their the world when death occurs 100 kilometers costs have to be paid for by the family from their legal residence • Consular services will be required to • Preparation of the deceased for ensure proper documentation is in order for transport home to Canada or direct the deceased to return home disposition where death has occurred • Consulate paper work, fees, legal proof • Transportation costs will vary depending of death certificate on the airline and those costs are out of our Dawn Vader, CFP David Lord, CPA, CMA, CFP control • Minimal necessary casket and or air tray for transport • The costs associated with bringing a loved one home could be well over $13000 • Coverage of all airline fees and charges The death of a loved one is a challenging time and the Dawn Vader, CFP associated with the transportation of the body job of an executor can be stressful. We will be your guide through the many administrative steps you need Dawn specializes in estate planning for families • It could take up to two weeks or more for to complete over the coming weeks. You don’t have and business owners. Dawn has been making a real the deceased to finally return home • Legal translations of documents, to do this alone. Examples of how we can assist you difference in clients’ lives for more than 30 years as a interpreter referrals, emergency message include: Financial Planner by simplifying the process of passing transmission to family members on wealth to loved ones. Who can purchase • Life Insurance claims David Lord, CPA, CMA, CFP the guaranteed travel • Assistance with the return of accompanying pets • Coordinating bank and investment accounts • Personal budgeting David specializes in working with business owners to assurance plan? • Estate distributions improve operational and tax efficiency at any phase in • No health questions; no age restrictions • Managing the death of a shareholder the lifecyle, from startup to wind-down. David has more – everyone qualifies • Mediating disagreements between beneficiaries than 15 years experience in guiding owner operators The Guaranteed Travel Assurance Plan can through both lean and profitable operations. Where be purchased by anyone with no restrictions Our team will be with you the whole way. your business has been impacted by the death of a key as either a stand alone product or as part of • No renewal fees; one time fee for It starts with a phone call or an email. Reach out today. shareholder, David can help. lifetime coverage regardless of amount of travel your pre-arranged funeral plan. Even if you have made your pre-arrangements at another funeral home, you may still purchase the For more information or to purchase the Guaranteed Travel Assurance Plan directly Guaranteed Travel Assurance Plan please from us. contact us at 780-460-0637 Call us now at 780-906-5487 or email dawn@redsealfinancial.com 4 Meet the team at www.redsealfinancial.com | Recommended Partner | | Recommended Partner | During times of tragedy, let us be a source of comfort. Centrally located in Edmonton, just 400 metres from rapid transit, you can park with us for free while other downtown hotels charge you for parking! You’ll love our contemporary guest rooms, each complete with all of the comforts of home. For your convenience, we have custom designed furnishings and oversized writing desks in most rooms. Dine in our full restaurant and lounge before relaxing in our indoor salt water pool and hot tub. We also offer 24-hour food service in the Tim Hortons coffee shop attached to the lobby. bestwesternedmonton.com To book, call us at 1-800-666-5026 or visit our website for more information 11310-109th Street Edmonton, Alberta T5G 2T7 | Recommended Partner | PLANNING A FUNERAL A brief overview... Most of us are not prepared to plan and The following list of information will be carry out a funeral ceremony for someone needed when funeral arrangements are we love. So much of the information being made: available on this critically important subject • Full name of deceased fails to focus on what is most important: having a personalized, meaningful funeral • Date of birth that helps families and friends begin the healing process of mourning after the death • Place of birth • Social insurance number Your journey has been of someone we love. Our dedicated and experienced staff are • Father’s name • Mother’s maiden name challenging enough. here to help you and can play a critical role Let us deal with CRA. • Last or usual occupation in planning and carrying out a meaningful • Cemetery information, if available funeral or memorial service. Our licensed AD funeral directors are intimately familiar • Veteran information, if available with the funeral planning process, key • Alberta health care number decisions a grieving family must make, and St Arnaud Pinsent Steman. Personal and SPACE the necessary legal documentation that corporate tax professionals. is required during this difficult time. Our funeral professionals can handle all of the details and help you create a unique service that meets your needs and values. Funeral ceremonies can make a significant difference in how families channel their grief towards health and healing. During the funeral, the community comes together and responds to the reality that someone has died, and also to the reality that those remaining will need support, compassion, love, hope, and understanding. The funeral encourages you to think about the person who has died and to explore the meaning of his or her life and the ways in which he or she touched the lives of others. The remembering, reflecting, and choices that take place in the planning and conducting of the funeral service are often an important part of the process of For more information, call John Pinsent on 780-448-0399 grief and mourning. Ultimately, this process or email john@sps-ca.ca of contemplation and discovery creates a memorable and moving funeral experience for all who attend. www.sps-ca.ca | 1653 91st Street SW Edmonton, AB T6X 0W8 8 PRE-PLANNING HOW DOES The advantages of planning ahead PRE-PLANNING HELP? Pre-planning is a loving gift you can make for The idea behind planning ahead is simple. One Why pre-plan? your family and survivors that provides complete day, a great deal of vital information about you peace of mind to everyone involved. or a loved one will be needed by your family and Peace of mind anyone whose responsibility it is to assist them. Those who plan ahead can be assured that not Pre-planning takes the burden of making Why should you make only will their personal wishes be fulfilled, but important decisions away from your loved ones pre-arrangements for your funeral? other unnecessary problems may be avoided. during a difficult time. • You can plan together as a family Financial assurance • You help spare your loved ones from Both you and your loved ones can benefit Pre-payment of your funeral through our having to make difficult decisions when funeral arrangements are made well ahead of need. It can be beneficial to include funeral home will render the costs associated • It ensures your wishes are your immediate family in these plans, ensuring with your final expenses inflation-proof. well-documented and carried out those left behind are aware of your wishes • It ensures all your personal documents are and able to plan a meaningful funeral that will Longevity organized and easy for your survivors to locate help them begin their mourning. By discussing Pre-planning your funeral will make certain • It helps control costs and reduces plans in advance, you can take time to make that your choices are respected and carried out, emotional overspending decisions about cremation or burial, the type without leaving your family to wonder what • You can personalize your plan to of ceremony, and other elements of the funeral. your wishes may have been. reflect your unique personality You may want to discuss your thoughts and Here are some tips that may help you start the advance decisions not only with your family but also There are many different ways to begin the planning conversation with your loved ones: a funeral service professional. This planning planning ahead conversation. You know your family and how your loved ones might best Set a time to have the conversation. Schedule guide can be used to capture your wishes and it as an appointment with your loved ones, biographical information in advance. Upon respond to the topic. For some families, it might be a casual conversation over dinner or another whether you want to share your plans with completion, simply store it in a safe place with them or ask them to make their plans to share your other important documents. family gathering. For other families, a formal meeting might be better suited. with you. Tell your parent or loved one that you want to ensure their final arrangements are Most of us plan ahead in life. We plan for our done according to their wishes, and you need wedding, our children’s education, family Regardless of your approach, the conversation their help to make that happen. vacations, and other significant expected life is much easier to have when death is not events. We also plan for the unexpected events imminent. Discussing the subject with loved To open the discussion to learn more details of life by purchasing home, auto, and medical ones earlier in life when they are younger, and about your loved one’s wishes, ease into the insurance. most likely healthier, makes the topic easier to conversation with questions such as: talk about and keeps the focus on the celebration Understanding the benefits of pre-planning has of life rather than an impending loss. • Have you ever thought about where prompted many to take the step to plan their you would like to be buried?” own arrangements. • “What type of funeral would you like to have?” Take advantage of funeral-related opportunities. Attending the funeral of a friend, family member, or colleague or watching a movie or television show with funeral scenes may naturally prompt the discussion. Talk about what you liked or didn’t like about the services you saw or attended. 10 11 | Recommended Partner | P R E - PAY M E N T Methods of funeral pre-payment Life insurance Guaranteed Life insurance is often used as a method to pay for funeral services. Many people feel that funeral funding if they have life insurance, everything will be Insurance policies can provide funding, while taken care of because their loved ones will have pre-need policies combine both funding and the means to carry out their wishes. the arrangement. Creating your arrangements involves deciding on your final disposition There are several considerations when funding (burial, or cremation) and selecting goods and with insurance. Unfortunately, over time, life services based on how you wish to memorialize events occur that can jeopardize the death your life. Once that step has been completed, benefit we once felt was sufficient. funding options for an arrangement through a policy designed to work in concert with While insurance policies are very helpful, it is your arrangement are available. These types wise to ensure they are kept up to date from of arrangements are referred to as pre- time to time by confirming the benefit, the arrangements, or pre-need. owner, and the beneficiary. We may forget that we took a loan out, thus reducing the Pre-need insurance is a special policy that death benefit. Policies sometimes lapse due to has been created for funeral homes to fund in other economic needs requiring our attention. the exact same amount of your funeral pre- Confirm your policy is not just an accidental arrangement. policy, or a policy that terms out at a certain age. Ensure that over time inflation has not The policy can be purchased in a simple single eroded the value and that it will still provide premium, or in monthly payments, through that for which you have planned. the funeral home. Funds are held securely and safely in the name of the Purchaser and are If your policy is assignable, you may want to flexible with changes and cancellation. discuss your funeral/cremation expenses at the funeral home. You may want to discuss the The pre-need policy is structured to pay benefits of assigning your policy to the funeral the funeral home directly for the goods and home and how to protect the funds for those services originally selected. The cost of goods purposes. and services will be covered by the benefit amount in your pre-need policy and there will While insurance is certainly a way to fund not be any additional cost to your family. funeral expenses, it is important to understand what can happen to policies so that you are able to ensure the policy performs as you wish at the time of need. Life insurance provides funding, but unless you make your wishes known, your family may not necessarily know, or agree. It is important to pre-plan your final wishes, as much as it is important to fund your final wishes. We can assist you in making your arrangements to complement the funds in your policy. 13 FUNERAL W H A T I S A F U N E R A L? ARRANGEMENTS Elements of a funeral service Whether you’re planning for yourself or for a loved one, the funeral service is one of the Burial Plans of a casket or urn. It usually consists of final most important elements of a person’s final When considering final arrangements for remarks, prayers, or memories. The service arrangements. yourself or a loved one, one of the first decisions may occur after or in place of a funeral service. you might make is whether you prefer a There is no one right way to plan a funeral burial or a cremation. This decision will often Regardless of the service or services you service: we truly believe that each funeral should influence other important considerations, such choose to include in your funeral plan, you can be individual and memorable. By providing you as elements of the funeral service and the type personalize them in almost any way imaginable. with the opportunity for personalization, the of cemetery property. funeral service can reflect the uniqueness of the life it honours. Funeral or celebration of life service For example, just consider the following questions: A formal or informal ceremony or ritual prior When planning your own funeral service in advance, think about the way you want to be to burial or cremation, a funeral service often • Where should the funeral be held? At your remembered. Perhaps you’d like a traditional provides a sense of closure to family and place of worship? At the funeral home? funeral aligned with certain religious or ethnic friends. Although your faith or culture may customs, or a celebration focusing on great dictate some of the elements, you may want • Who should officiate the service? memories made with family and friends may to personalize other aspects of the service. At be your preference. Maybe it’s a combination of a funeral service, a casket or urn is present, • Will your service adhere to the traditions both. You can have one service, or several, to though you may choose to have the casket open of your faith or culture? honour your life. or closed. • Do you want a eulogy, and who Regardless of whether you or your loved one Visitation, or viewing should deliver it? have opted for burial or for cremation, the Held the day before or immediately prior to funeral or memorial service fills an important the funeral service, the visitation — also called • Would you like an open or closed casket? role. a “viewing” — provides a way for friends and acquaintances to pay their respects and offer • What music should be played? It can: condolences to your family. As with the funeral • Honour, recognize, and celebrate service, you may want to decide if you want an • What readings would you like to have? the life of the deceased open or closed casket, should one be present. • Is there a special poem you’d like shared with the guests? • Allow friends and family to Graveside service say their last goodbyes As its name implies, a graveside service may • Are there any special photographs or other be held at the grave site, just prior to burial memorabilia you would like displayed? • Provide closure after the loss of a loved one • Allow friends to console the family of the loved one 14 15 | Recommended Partner | PR ACT I CA L I N FO R M AT I O N For your family In addition to pre-planning your funeral, • You can place a portion of cremated remains completing a personal information form and in an urn and a portion in a columbarium niche, giving a copy to your estate trustee, spouse, providing a permanent location where you can and children will give you the peace of mind of pay your respects. knowing they will have all the information they need to properly handle your wishes and the • You can scatter the cremated remains. details of your estate. What is cremation? Keep this information safe but don’t put it in Cremation is a process of reducing the body to your safety deposit box, as these can remain bone fragments by applying intense heat for sealed until after the funeral. a period of two to three hours. The cremated remains are then removed from the cremation In this section, we’ve answered the most chamber and processed into finer fragments common questions we are asked about funeral In-Home to be placed in a temporary container. They options. If you require further information, typically weigh between three and six pounds. please contact us at any time. An urn may be selected for the final disposition Healthcare of the cremated remains. Cremation Cremation is an alternative to earth burial or Do we need to buy a casket? mausoleum entombment: it does not limit Cremation by-laws require that at a minimum, the funeral in any way. Should you choose the deceased must be placed into a rigid cremation, you will still have the same options combustible container. Many options of caskets for memorialization that any other family has. and containers are available to you. Cremation can take place before or after the funeral service. Here at Infinity Healthcare, we offer a unique and personalized combination of premier care and Can we place personal mementos in community-based services across Alberta. We operate 24/7 and offer a variety of payment options. the casket prior to cremation? A few facts about cremation: • Cremation cannot occur until there is a signed Many personal items may be placed in the death certificate by a doctor. casket; however, some items may need to be Home Support Nursing Care Personal Care removed prior to the cremation process. All Companionship Wound care Dressing • If you choose cremation for your loved one, items left in the casket will be destroyed during Meal preparation Medication administration Bathing the cremation. Your funeral director can advise Cleaning Vital signs monitoring you can still have a service. Mobility assistance you on which items may stay and which items Pet care Dementia care must be removed from the casket. • You have numerous options for the final Laundry services Palliative and end-of-life care resting place. Coordination of home and Coordination of doctor visits Do we need to have a funeral if we yard maintenance Pharmacy refills Errands, grocery shopping • You can place the cremated remains in a select cremation? special urn to display at home. Cremation does not limit the type of funeral service that may be chosen. The same options • You can bury an urn in a cemetery, providing that apply to earth burial are available with Above all, Infinity Healthcare empowers people to maintain an independent a permanent resting place where family and lifestyle in the community and successfully age in peace. cremation. Some of these choices include casket friends can visit. Set up a free assessment today by calling: 780-809-7884 www.infinity-8.ca 17 or email: info@infinity-8.ca type, location of the service and visitation, Taking an urn home: THE ARRANGEMENTS ARE OVER... music selection, open casket, and the display Many people prefer to have the urn Now what? of personal mementos. Some families elect to at home with them. have a complete service at the funeral home or place of worship. Shipping: If cremation: You may wish for the cremated remains to be shipped to another country. We can look after Most individuals are not aware that when a • Notification to AISH • Would you like to use our chapel for a short these arrangements for you. You may also family member dies survivors and executors service prior to the cremation? • Social Insurance Number cancellation be permitted to take the cremated remains are then faced with a myriad of administrative tasks to complete. Unfortunately, this process • Notification to Alberta Seniors Benefit yourself to another country. Check with us first • What type of urn would you prefer (metal, and we can assist you. is challenging and much more serious than you • Notification to WCB wood, marble, ceramic, etc.)? think. • Notification to Alberta Health Care • What type of final resting place would you If casket burial: • Notification to Alberta Blue Cross In today’s world, extra measures need to be prefer for your loved one (choice of burial, • Would you like other members of the family • Notification to Alberta Motor taken to prevent the deceased from being above ground niches, or scattering of cremated to be with your loved one in the future? This Vehicles Division a victim of identity theft. It’s critical that the remains)? determines the size of the plot. administrative responsibilities are done right. • Notification to Equifax Canada • Would you like other members of the family • What type of memorial do you prefer (a • Notification to TransUnion Canada Fortunately Trinity Funeral Home will make to be with your loved one in the future? This marker set flush with the ground or an upright • Notification to Passport Canada this process as safe-guarded and easy as it determines the size of the resting place. memorial)? • *Final Document Service – Extended should be. Our Final Document Service saves survivors and executors hundreds of hours • Certified declaration of legal marriage* Decisions to be made regarding • Would you like to protect your loved one’s and likely thousands of dollars by completing casket with a vault? • Certified declaration of common-law union* burial of an urn: the required tasks efficiently, securely and economically. • Certified Canada Post address change letter* • What type of memorial do you prefer (bronze • What type of presentation would you prefer or granite marker set flush with the ground or • Request to disconnect mobile phone services* for the burial service, e.g. a tent canopy, chairs, an upright memorial)? Trinity offers a basic document service • Cable TV / satellite (Shaw & Telus)* mats leading to the grave, etc.? as well as an extended document service. • Request transfer or cancellation of • Would you like to protect your loved one’s urn The extended service includes everything Burial covered with the basic service as well as residential utilities (Enmax, Epcor Etc.)* with a vault? Most people are familiar with the concept of items all marked with an asterisk – * • Request to transfer rewards cards* burial, or interment, but may not be aware of • Notification to home / auto Decisions to be made regarding above the variety of options that are often available. ground niches: Many cemeteries offer one or more of the Categories covered by insurance brokers* • Notification of death to pensions* • Would you like the niche to be inside a building following: final document service or outside? • Notification to credit card companies* • Ground burial: burial of the casket below basic & extended • What type of material would you like the niche ground. A “vault” or “outer burial container” is document services... to be constructed from? Granite or bronze are required at many cemeteries. choices for outdoor niches and marble or glass • Mausoleum, or community mausoleum: a • Notification of Death to Service Canada are choices for indoor niches. large building that provides above ground • Notification of Death to Canada Pension Plan entombments. • Private family mausoleum: a small structure • Notification of Death to Old Age Security Scattering: that provides above-ground entombment of, on • Notification of Death to Some cemeteries have scattering areas on their average, two to twelve decedents. Canada Revenue Agency property. Please check local laws for scattering. • Companion crypt: permits two interments or • CPP Death Benefit Application • Would you like to be present entombments side-by-side. • CPP Survivors Benefit Application for the scattering? • Private family estate: a small section of a cemetery, usually bordered by gates, shrubbery, • Notification to RCMP – Firearms License • Would you like a memorial to be placed in the area? or other dividers, that allows for ground burial of several members of the same family. 18 19 | Recommended Partner | Why Livestream We have all become connoisseurs of the medium. We want the “full” experience Benefits of Funeral your Funeral? of “being there” in high definition, with Livestreaming Words cannot describe how grateful we are multiple camera angles that can give us the that you helped make my grandmother's detail that we are accustomed to seeing in funeral so special. We have received many When we experience the death of the programs we watch. This is exactly how Funeral livestreaming has been around for calls and messages from family and friends riSpekt Media approaches the livestreaming around the world how they have seen virtual someone we love, a funeral service fills years, but it is only recently that this service funerals but nothing like my grandmother's. several important needs. Funerals helps of a funeral, offering the viewer the best seat is gaining in popularity. Here are just a few us acknowledge that someone we love in the house. of the ways that families benefit from funeral I know that we had many questions, has died, they provide a support system livestreaming: additions/changes and appreciate your for us, friends, family members and the Unless the family requests otherwise, this patience and honesty. Also appreciate you coverage includes opportunities throughout working with the funeral home to reduce community. Funerals allow us to reflect on • Convenience: Family members who are stress and make us feel supported during the meaning of life and death. the service for online viewers to see images ill or frail might not be able to travel to the this time. Thank you once again, of the family and friends that they cannot be service location. Livestreaming allows them Under normal circumstances, attending with in person. to participate from the comfort of home. Christina M. funeral services in-person are almost always the preferred choice. Family and A funeral is a private affair, livestreaming • Family Gathering: The family of a friends want to pay their respects and find the service does not mean it is any less deceased loved one who was well-known in closure in their grief, but there is always private. The connection to the livestream is the community might feel more comfortable some people who are unable to attend the as private as you want it to be. The funeral keeping a service smaller, providing a link funeral due to cost, timing, distance, health can only be viewed by those who have been so that a larger circle of those who want and other circumstances. invited with a link. However, if you would to pay their respects can do so remotely. like the service to be more widely available Livestreaming provides access to the public Even though it might be one more thing to to your community, the link can be placed in while maintaining an intimate gathering for add to your to-do list, don’t underestimate the online obituary or posted on your social close family and friends. the benefits of funeral livestreaming. media sites. You have complete control over Streaming is a great option to provide just how public or private you would like the • Distance: When loved ones live across accessibility for those who cannot attend in service to be. Canada, or even in another country, traveling person, connecting people from around the to a funeral might be too expensive. You world and creating an opportunity for group Finally, a livestream isn’t just live. The link can livestream a funeral service to provide healing and closure after the loss of a loved is available after the service for as long as access to those who cannot afford the travel one. Not being present does not mean these the family wishes. Something a preferred costs. people do not mourn the loss. partner like riSpekt Media also offers is a keepsake version of the service that is • Recording: Not only does a funeral In times past, the obituary in the paper distributed as a downloadable file through livestream feed provide access for real- was the best way to get word of ones a private link, so anyone around the world time viewing, but the family may appreciate passing out to the community. Now with whom the family shares the link with can having a recording of the services. This online obituaries and social media sites the keep a copy of the service much like DVD’s recording will capture the many stories and methods of notification have changed. In in the old days, but without the shipping. memories shared during the event. the same way, livestreaming of the funeral service has become a valuable resource in If you decide to livestream funeral services, • Reduce Costs: Hosting a virtual funeral the planning process, ensuring that everyone you will find it an effective way to create unity or memorial makes it easy to reduce can take part in honouring the life of a loved among the many friends and family who costs. If your budget is tight, use funeral one. want to participate in the event. Technology livestreaming to skip the venue fees, catering supports the group in finding healing amidst bills, and travel costs. More and more people are now part of a their loss, while connecting people from all generation that grew up watching television. parts of the world. Call or email us today at (780) 449-4495 www.rispektmedia.com dean@rispektmedia.com At Trinity Funeral Home, we have a wide selection Eco-friendly: There are several options available Cremation containers of funeral products available. We are here to for those who are environmentally conscious, Traditional wood casket: Adds warmth and help you with your choices, whether you are in while still combining beauty and strength. Please beauty to a viewing service. immediate need or are pre-planning. ask us for information on the options. Wood cremation casket: Specifically constructed to be used for cremation. Usually less expensive Casket selection Metal caskets than traditional wood but still crafted with the When choosing a casket, your first decision Bronze: Beautiful finishes and solid construction same quality and care. should be whether to have a wood or metal casket. delivers the very finest of metal caskets, encompassing superior quality, strength, and Hardboard casket: Featuring the look of a From there, it is then a choice of the type of durability. hardwood casket but constructed to be lighter in wood or metal. Caskets can be customized using weight and fully combustible. additional adornments such as custom corners or Copper. Naturally non-rusting, a copper casket personalized panels, all of which provide a unique, has a rich beauty, with a selection of finishes Rental casket: Designed especially for reuse, fitting selection for your loved one. available. they comprise an exterior shell with an internal container. For sanitary purposes, embalming is We have provided a brief summary of the different Stainless steel: A natural choice for those who required. The internal container remains with options that are available to you: desire the added protection of a metal casket the body at the crematory; it is only the shell of but at a more moderate price. Stainless steel the casket that is reused. is a popular choice, with a selection of styles to Wood caskets choose from. Urns: An urn is a small container used for holding Mahogany: Mahogany has a reddish-brown hue the cremated remains. Urns may be buried, and a closed grain, which lends itself to deep, Carbon steel: Available in a wide choice of colours, placed in a mausoleum, or kept at home. There rich colours and high lustre finishes. A mahogany finishes, and styles, a carbon steel casket can is a huge choice of styles, prices, and materials, casket is an elegant choice when the very best have various thicknesses. including bronze, hardwood, marble, glass, and acrylic. wood casket is desired. PRODUCT Walnut: A hardwood casket of walnut will be both | Reccommended Partner | SELECTION elegant and dignified. Walnut has a striking grain colour and pattern, together with a natural lustre. Oak: Known for its prominent grain, oak is a hardwood that depicts strength and durability. Oak is naturally a light to medium brown colour, which can have a variety of stains and finishes added to it. Pine: Pine is a durable wood that is characterized by a straight grain with a colouring of pale yellow Every home has a story, we’d be honoured to light brown. Due to being a “softer” wood, pine caskets can be stained and finished to achieve the desired effect. Pine makes an economical solid to tell yours. wood choice. Cherry: Cherry is a beautiful hardwood with a warm, creamy reddish colouring. Caskets are available in a variety of styles. Having sold inherited property and property in probate we have experience in the nuances of probate law and what this means for the sale of your home. I’ll Maple: Maple is a popular choice for hardwood make sure you’re well prepared, well informed and make what can be a difficult caskets. It encompasses strength and beauty and process as simple as possible for you. is wear resistant with a grain that can either caskets. It encompasses strength and beauty and is wear resistant with a grain that can either be straight or wavy and has a natural lustre. Pecan: A strong, heavy hardwood that is light in I’d love to hear from you... Schmidt Realty Group Inc. 4736 99 Street, Edmonton, AB, T6E 5H5 colour, pecan caskets are popular among families Schmidt@weselledmonton.com desiring a fine hardwood casket, but who wish to Sarah Sear P: 780.437.2030 22 moderate their expenses. 780-318-4510 | sarah.sear@weselledmonton.com schmidtrealtygroup.com What is a green burial? includes the following services: professional service fee, registration & documentation, local transfer from place of death, licensed G R AVE S I D E Green, or Natural Burial is focused on reducing the SERVICE environmental impact on the earth. All materials staff services, biodegradable shroud or casket $2295 used in the process, including the casket, shroud, and transportation to the cemetery or place of and even clothing, is made up of biodegradable natural burial. materials. Concrete vaults and grave liners are not used and there are generally no traditional Can I be buried without a casket? monuments erected to mark the grave. Instead, • Professional Services Yes. A person can be directly interred in the a communal boulder, plaque, garden or fence may earth in a shroud without a casket. Every • Basic Documentation be erected for memorialization. In some cases, cemetery has different regulations regarding an indigenous plant or rock can be placed at the the burial of human remains and not all have a • Local Transfer from Place of Death gravesite. dedicated natural burial section. • Professional Staff Services Green Boutique • Biodegradable Shroud or Casket We have always offered traditional services and products that create a meaningful funeral • Transportation to Green Burial site* or cremation experience, but now we also offer services that minimize the overall environmental *Within 100km radius impact on our Environment. GREEN These services result in the reduction of carbon emissions, toxification, and waste. From caskets and urns made of biodegradable materials, along BURIALS with a partnership with Edmonton’s only Green Cemetery, we hope to aid in the reduction of carbon emissions, conserve natural resources, and preserve our habitat. Frequently Asked Questions What is considered a green burial? The Green Burial Council believes cemeteries, preserves, and burial grounds can broadly be considered green if they meet the following criteria: caring for the dead with minimal environmental impact that aids in the conservation of natural resources, reduction of carbon emissions, protection of worker health, and the restoration and/or preservation of habitat. Green burial necessitates the use of non-toxic and biodegradable materials, such as caskets, shrouds, and urns. Is green burial cheaper? The basic Green Burial option is less expensive than a traditional burial service but depending on the options added, it could be equal in cost. Our Green Burial package starts at $2295 and 24 | Recommended Partner | | Recommended Partner | Minimize your ecological footprint By choosing a green burial, you’ll be minimizing the impact your death has on the earth. Traditional burials are carried out by placing concrete into the earth to house the casket, disrupting the biodiversity of the soil around it. Selecting a green burial at Meadows of Rosehill ensures your body simply returns to the earth from where it first came, providing a sustainable option for those who wish to leave the smallest ecological footprint possible. Providing Exquisite, Returning the earth to the way it was At Meadows of Rosehill, our green burials are designed to return the earth to the way it was before we opened Everlasting Memorials up the one acre area for interment. We have instituted land-use policies that minimize the amount of disruption that is caused to the earth by the burials, with the overall goal of returning the meadow to its original state. This helps to promote biodiversity and animal habitation within At Wholesale Prices Meadows of Rosehill, allowing it to flourish as a meadow once again in the future. We are very proud to be able to provide people with this service, as there are currently no other green burial cemeteries located within Edmonton. How does your green burial work? Our green burials are designed to have the smallest environmental impact possible, while still providing families a way to respectfully honor the life of their loved one. Our green burials are carried out in the following way: • The body is either placed directly into the earth with a biodegradable casket or burial shroud • No concrete burial liners are used in the Meadows of Rosehill Family owned and operated, we work with can provide our customers with affordable, families to provide them with wholesale yet stunning memorials. With our customers • No embalming fluid is used to preserve the body memorials at factory-direct prices. Whether at the forefront of everything we do, we go • There are no individual headstones, memorials, or grave you want to match an existing memorial or above and beyond in trying to honour their customize a memorial to honour the life of a wishes and requests for the memorials that markers (though GPS coordinates for a specific plot are available for families who wish to visit) loved one, we can help. will become living monuments to their loved ones. • A communal memorial denotes and remembers those Our owners, Marc and Melanie, have worked who are buried within the Meadows of Rosehill in the funeral industry in various capacities We would be honoured to help you pick out for the past 25 years. In addition to running and design a memorial that’s a fitting tribute • The deceased are not buried in specific plots, but rather Europa Memorial, Marc also serves as the to yourself or your loved one. We work directly ones that are available at the time of their death so as to director of cemeteries for the Eparchy of with granite suppliers from across the world to minimize disruption to the earth Edmonton, while Melanie is an associate offer unique styles and colours that are hard professor of music at The King’s University. to find in Edmonton and Alberta. The goal of Meadows of Rosehill is to mitigate the ecological footprint of burials, so that in the future it Driven by customer service and efficiency, Contact us today by calling (780) 667-6208 would be virtually impossible to recognize the area as a Europa Memorial is a tight-knit company that or visit europamemorial.ca cemetery. Instead, the grounds will have fully returned to prides itself on keeping its costs down so we the meadow that it previously was. For more information, contact us on Call us now on 1 (780) 434-5433 (780) 667-6208 13819 - 82 st. Edmonton, AB T5E 2X6 europamemorial.ca 1605 141 Street SW, Edmonton, Alberta, T6W 1A3 rosehillcemetery.ca | Recommended Partner | The Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program ensures that eligible Veterans receive dignified funeral and burial services. The Last Post Fund (LPF), a non-profit organization, delivers the program on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada. To be eligible for the program, Veterans must meet both military and financial criteria. For more information, please visit the Last Post Fund website. Matter-of-Right When a Veteran’s death is related to military Legal Guidance Based service due to a condition for which Veterans Affairs Canada provided a disability benefit, assistance may be granted as a matter-of-right on Experience & Trust (no means testing). This must be determined by a medical authority from Veterans Affairs Canada. Means Tested Honouring the lives Under the program, the LPF may provide funeral and burial assistance to: OF THOSE • a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces or any predecessor naval, army or air WHO SERVE forces of Canada or Newfoundland; or • a Canadian Merchant Navy Veteran of the Second World War or the Korean War; or • an Allied Veteran who served with the Allied Forces during the Second World War or the Korean War and has also lived in Canada for at least 10 years, or lived in Canada prior to enlisting and was living in Canada at time of death. Hautmann Law takes the confusion out of will and estate planning to If the estate of the deceased and the financial assist you with making preparations based on your individual needs. Give resources of any surviving spouse are not yourself the gift of peace of mind by knowing that your affairs are in order sufficient to pay the expenses of the funeral and and your loved ones will be taken care of, no matter what life brings. burial then assistance may be provided to cover all or part of the cost. The Means Test In determining eligibility for means-tested Estate Planning Law | Personal Directives | Power of Attorney assistance, the following assets in the deceased’s Wills & Trusts | Probate & Estate Administration | Real Estate Law estate will not be included in the calculation of financial status: • Assets to a value of $38,229 where the Get in touch on deceased left a surviving spouse 28 (780) 434-7600 or email JWH@Hautmannlaw.com www.hautmannlaw.com • Assets to a value of $700 for each dependent homes because the funeral home or child (as defined under the legislation) place of burial or cremation are not in the same locality as the place where the • The family home (including normal household death occurred; furnishings) and the family automobile • if necessary, the cost of any special preparation • Regular income cheques (payments under: of the remains for viewing; Old Age Insurance, Guaranteed Income Supplement, War Veterans Allowance, or • if required, the cost of providing a single grave disability pension payments) issued to the and reasonable costs of opening and closing the deceased for the month of death. grave and its perpetual care; Where the deceased is not survived by a • if a grave liner is required by the authorities When you order funeral flowers from Flowers By Merle, our skilled and compassionate spouse or dependent children, all estate assets of the cemetery, municipality or province, the florists will work directly with the funeral home to ensure that your delivery is timely and are examined to determine financial need. cost of a decomposable or non-decomposable accurate. We offer a range of Casket and Standing Sprays, Urn Arrangements, Hanging grave liner; Wreaths, Condolences Arrangements, Sympathy Plants and Special Sentiments. Funeral and burial expenses of the deceased, as well as other debts, are considered when • the cost of cremating the remains; and For more information, call us or visit our website above. determining the value of the estate. If it is determined that the estate and if applicable, • a military style grave marker (upright or the financial resources of any surviving spouse flat granite, or in certain cases, flat bronze) are sufficient to provide for the funeral and conforming to the standards of Veterans Affairs burial, assistance will not be approved. If Canada. there are sufficient assets to cover a portion of the expenses, a grant in the amount of Application for Assistance the difference, up to the maximum amounts An application for funeral and burial assistance | Recommended Partner | stipulated by legislation, may be approved. can be made by calling the Last Post Fund toll- free at 1-800-465-7113 within one year following Benefits the death of the Veteran. Applications that are Financial assistance is payable received after the one-year time limit will not for the following costs: be considered. For more detailed information about the regulations, please visit the web site REAL • any medical costs of the deceased person’s last sickness that were not otherwise paid by the Minister and that are not insured under a Veterans Burial Regulations: www.veterans. gc.ca For those in need, further assistance is possibly available through local county and or ESTATE private or provincial health care plan; regional agencies. • the costs of the following funeral services: PROFESSIONALS • preparation of the remains • provision of a casket that meets the standards specified by the Minister or provision of an Urn • provision of ceremonial services, • provision of death notices With extensive experience in the real estate through the process every step of the way. We • transportation of the remains from industry in the Greater Edmonton area, Herrick have the experience and expertise to guide you the place where the death occurred Real Estate can help you with the valuation and and help with everything from home repairs to to a funeral home and to a place of sale of property in aid of settling your loved decluttering and preparing the home for sale. Ask burial or cremation ones estate. Our team of Realtors will guide you us how we can help you. • transportation of the remains that requires the services of two funeral Jay Herrick 780-903-4636 31 Steve Reschke 780-908-2641 hello@herrickrealestategroup.com herrickrealestategroup.com Above all, just listening and showing your When someone close to us passes, the confusion concern, along with your presence, will be great to and mixed emotions we feel can often become overwhelming. However, it is important to help your friend. recognize that there is no standard way of experiencing loss and no right way to grieve. It Before the funeral: is completely normal to feel a mixture of shock, 1. Offer to notify his/her family and friends anger, guilt, despair and relief, along with many about funeral arrangements other different emotions. There are, however, 2. Help answer the phone and greet visitors some things that you can do which may help you to cope, along with people who can support you, if 3. Keep a record of everyone who calls, visits, you need it, during this period in your life. or has been contacted 4. Help coordinate the food and drink supply Recognizing grief 5. Offer to pick up friends and family at the Losing someone we love is something that we airport and arrange housing all have to go through at some point in our lives. Each experience is personal and different, and 6. Offer to provide transportation can be influenced by many factors. Your feelings for out-of-town visitors are likely to be affected by the relationship you 7. Help him/her keep the house cleaned and the had with the person, your cultural background, Helping a friend dishes washed and your religious beliefs. COPE WITH It is important to remember that grief may be After the funeral: 1. Prepare or provide dinner on a day that is Experiencing displayed in different ways for each individual. LOSS GRIEF mutually acceptable every week for two to three months Grief can manifest itself in a range of emotions: 2. Offer to help with yard chores such as Shock - you may have thought that you were watering or pruning prepared if the death was expected or because 3. Feed and exercise the pets, if any you’ve experienced a loss previously. But whatever the circumstances it is common to 4. Write notes offering encouragement and feel an initial sense of shock at the passing of support someone close to us. 5. Offer to drive or accompany him/her to the cemetery regularly Anger - it is very common to feel anger whilst you are grieving; this can be because they 6. Offer to house sit so he/she can get away or passed before their time, things that happened visit family out of town between you or did not happen, or anger that 7. Make a weekly run to the grocery store, they are no longer there. laundry, or cleaners Guilt - people often feel a sense of guilt that 8. Help with the “Thank You” notes and/or they themselves have not passed, or guilt at other correspondence certain circumstances involving their loved one. 9. Anticipate difficult periods such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and the day of death Despair - a grieving person can feel despair and feel at a loss as to how they will cope and what 10. Always mention the deceased by name and their future life will hold. encourage reminiscing Numbness - it can often feel like you are living in a ‘fog’ after the loss of a loved one. You may feel numb or worry that you have not cried. 32 33 | Recommended Partner | Physical symptoms of grief Over time your life will take on a new shape and When grieving it is common to experience meaning. physical symptoms, such as: “There are things that we don’t want to happen • Loss or increase in appetite but have to accept, things we don’t want to know • Difficulty in sleeping but have to learn, and people we can’t live without • Lethargy - feeling drained, having no energy but have to let go.” - Author Unknown • Headaches It is important to be kind to yourself and give yourself the time and care that you need to EXPRESSIONS OF SY M PAT H Y Let Sunrise Home Buyers transition through the grieving process. Coping with grief As with the many different factors that contribute to how we express our grief there Listen with your heart help you through this challenging time. are also various processes that can help us to Helping begins with your ability to be an active cope: listener. Your physical presence and desire to listen without judging are critical helping tools. Give yourself time - focus on one day at a time, Don’t worry so much about what you will say. helping you to cope with your emotions and get Just concentrate on listening to the words that through simple, everyday tasks. are being shared with you. Why not choose the quick and hassle-free way to sell your home? We purchase houses outright, in “AS-IS” condition, and on the date of your choice. Take all Recognize your emotions - recognize the reasons Be compassionate the time you need to get what you want from your home. But don’t worry about for your emotions and symptoms, even the Give your friend permission to express his or her repairing it, cleaning it up or cleaning it out. Leave that to us. physical ones. When experiencing them give feelings without fear of criticism. Learn from yourself time to work through them. your friend; don’t instruct or set expectations Put our fair and flexible terms to work for you by selling your home in weeks about how he or she should respond. Never say, not months and without any of the stress or expensive fees. Support from family and friends - having a “I know just how you feel” You don’t. support network of family and friends can be extremely helpful. If you do not have this type of network then support can often be found Avoid clichés through counselling services. Words, particularly clichés, can be extremely painful for a grieving friend. Clichés are trite We are Experienced. We are Trustworthy. Talk about your grief - talking, whether about comments often intended to diminish the your feelings or about your loved one, with loss by providing simple solutions to difficult We are Sunrise Home Buyers. family, friends or a dedicated grief counselor is realities. Comments like “You are holding up an important part of the grief process. so well,” “Time heals all wounds,” ‘Think of all you still have to be thankful for,” or “Just be Sometimes our grief can become overwhelming happy that he/she is out of his/her pain” are not and it is important to recognize when to constructive. Instead, they hurt and can make get additional help. Part of the process is to a friend’s journey through grief more difficult. acknowledge that life will not return to normal - it is about understanding that your life has Offer practical help changed and finding a balance between the two. For more information, please call Nathan Korownyk at Preparing food, washing clothes, cleaning the (587) 982-7576 or email him at sunrisebuyers@gmail.com house, or answering the telephone are Just a Working through your grief is not about few of the practical ways of showing you care. forgetting the person but about learning how to live your life with the grief that you feel. www.sunrisehomebuyers.ca 34 Understand the uniqueness of grief the community’s shared loss, and share the valuable purposes including a means of a visual why is it necessary to view the Keep in mind that your friend’s grief is unique. burden of grief. expression of sympathy, love, and respect or a deceased in the casket? No one person will respond to the death of means of lending support. Human beings are interesting creatures: someone loved in exactly the same way. While How does the cost for a funeral sometimes we need to see in order to truly it may be possible to talk about similar phases ceremony compare to the cost of a What does the phrase “in lieu of believe. It’s a way of confirming the fact that, shared by grieving people, everyone is different memorial service or celebration of life? flowers” mean? indeed, this individual is dead; but it’s also an and shaped by experiences in their own unique Attempting to compare the costs of the three You may have read this phrase in an obituary: opportunity to say your “goodbyes”. lives. is rather like trying to compare oranges, ‘In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made mangoes, and apples; it can’t be done. Perhaps to...” Derived from the French phrase, ‘en lieu.; You may find it a cathartic time where you can Make contact it’s easier to see funerals, memorial services, strictly speaking, “in lieu” means “in place”; quietly share a long-held secret, let go of any Your presence at the funeral is important. As a and celebrations of life as three points on a so it can be said to be a directive sentence: “In anger or resentment, and otherwise come to ritual, the funeral provides an opportunity for spectrum—a range, if you like—of ceremonial place of flowers, contributions may be made terms with their death. you to express your love and concern at this formats. The cost of any of the three is totally to...” time of need. As you pay tribute to a life that dependent on the choices you make during the How long is a funeral service? is now passed, you have a chance to support arrangement conference. But it’s really important to realize that its use Simply put, it depends on the service. Just as grieving friends and family. At the funeral, a doesn’t imply you can’t send flowers to the no two movies or novels are the same length or touch of your hand, a look in your eye, or even Who should be invited to a funeral? service; it is only meant to offer you a choice of cover the same emotional ground, no two end- a hug often communicates more than words This is a lot like asking who should be invited to ways to show your sympathy for the family and of-life ceremonies are the same. could say. a wedding?” People who would want to be there. show your respects for the deceased. Only when A person’s role at a funeral is two-fold: one, the obituary states “no flowers please” are you being requested to abstain from sending floral How can I best prepare my children Share a favourite memory of the they are there to demonstrate support for the to attend a funeral? bereaved family; two, funeral guests are there tributes or sympathy arrangements. person who died When asked this question, we like to tell people Relate the special qualities that you valued in to tend to their own sorrow; to begin to come to terms, in the safety of a shared collective If one is requested, am I obligated to it’s best done with honesty and awareness. Let him or her. These words will often be a loving them know basically what they can expect. gift to your grieving friend, words that will be experience, with the death of someone they make a memorial donation? held dear. Advise them there will be people there who will reread and remembered for years. Use the Certainly not; it’s important to never feel be sad and may cry openly; tell them there will name of the person who has died either in obligated to do anything in response to the be time for some people to stand up and talk your personal note or when you talk to your While it’s not common to send out invitations death of a community or family member. Your to a funeral (generally, the service details are about how much they loved the person (but friend. Hearing that name can be comforting, actions (whether sending flowers, preparing a they won’t be required to do so). and it confirms that you have not forgotten this published in the newspaper or online, and casserole and taking it to the family home, or important person who was so much a part of those who wish to attend, do) it does make a making a donation) should always come from certain amount of sense to reach out to certain Let them ask all the questions they need to your friend’s life. the heart. ask, and reassure them you’ll be right next to individuals by phone, email, or social media to ensure they are aware of the service date/time them throughout the experience. Never force What’s involved in preparing them to go to a funeral, and always give them (and express your desire for their presence). F R E Q U E N T LY A S K E D the deceased for viewing at a the opportunity to change their mind about visitation or funeral? attending. QUESTIONS When preparing the guest list for a funeral service, you should both listen to your heart The preparation of the deceased can involve a and use common sense. You know the people number of different tasks performed by trained What is a celebrant? that mattered most to your loved one, as well and licensed embalmers and restorative The Celebrant Foundation and Institute define as those who mattered least. artists. Without going into too much detail, celebrants as “trained professionals who believe Why is having a funeral ceremony the deceased is temporarily preserved by in the power and effectiveness of ceremony and important? Is it necessary to have flowers at the embalming, refrigeration, or a combination ritual to serve basic needs of society and the Throughout human history, and around ceremony? of the two. They are washed, dressed, and individual. The celebrant’s mission is to help the globe, people have gathered together to otherwise groomed; then placed in the chosen the client create a ceremony that reflects his or acknowledge the death of a member of the Flowers create a background of warmth and casket for viewing. Should you wish to know her beliefs, philosophy of life, and personality! community. No matter who the deceased was, beauty which adds to the dignity and consolation more about the process, contact us. a funeral ceremony is the one (and sometimes of the funeral service. “Necessary” may not be A life-cycle celebrant is especially valuable the only) opportunity for everyone to come the right word but there’s no doubt flowers at If it makes people uncomfortable, when a family has no religious affiliations together to acknowledge the death, recognize a funeral or other end-of-life ceremony serve or ties to a clergy person or minister who 36 37 can officiate the funeral service. Involving a WH AT TO D O celebrant in the funeral planning process has been found to enhance the funeral experience A checklist: for all concerned. “The celebrant comes to the table with no agenda,” shares the Institute’s website, “and no preconceived notion of what the ceremony should or must look like. Instead, through careful interviewing, the Notify these people as Mother’s name, maiden name, & birthplace ❑ celebrant elicits what is meaningful for each soon as possible: client. If you think hiring a celebrant is the right Locate the will The funeral home, to arrange for the transfer choice for your family’s situation, contact us for of the deceased (usually this can be done more details. within 1-2 hours, although it may take longer Pay for: to obtain a release from the hospital) and set Must I wear black to the funeral an appointment with you to make further Funeral arrangements, including clergy, florist, ceremony? arrangements and transportation ❑ Black used to be the only colour to wear to a ❑ funeral but not anymore. Today things are less Relatives, executor/executrix, and friends Cemetery and memorialization services ❑ formal than they once were, and it’s not totally uncommon for families to ask prospective Employers (the employer of the deceased and Current and urgent bills (i.e., mortgage, rent, guests to altogether avoid wearing black relatives who will need time off) ❑ taxes, telephone, etc.) clothing. Should you have additional questions about funeral attire or etiquette, please contact WH AT Insurance agents (life, health, and accident) TO DO us. Meet with the funeral home Religious, fraternal, civic, and Veterans within a few hours to decide: What else would you like to know? organizations and unions, if applicable ❑ This list of frequently asked questions was A checklist Lawyer and accountant Whether your loved one is to be buried, cremated, or entombed compiled through our professional experiences. We thank the hundreds of inquisitive, The funeral director will ask if you have questioning families and individuals we’ve had the privilege of serving over the years: people Secure the vital statistics made any arrangements with a cemetery or crematorium. If you have not done this, you who have asked the most commonly asked of deceased: will need to visit the cemetery questions you see here. Full legal name—other names must be identified by “also known as” (AKA) Service details—would you like a visitation If yours isn’t listed here, get the answer you period, formal service, reception? need by reaching out to us on 780-474-4663. Home address and telephone number ❑ Whether a member of the clergy will be Industry and occupation ❑ engaged for the service ❑ Military service serial number ❑ Casket selection ❑ Date and place of birth ❑ Clothing that the deceased will be buried or cremated in ❑ Citizenship Pallbearers, music, pictures, flowers, scripture, Father’s name and birthplace ❑ or other readings ❑ Alberta health Care/Social Insurance Number If you would like a charity to receive donations in lieu of flowers 38 39 T O M Y F A M I LY A N D L O V E D O N E S : Province: Zip Code: Social Insurance Number: I wished to spare you as much anxiety, doubt and confusion as possible at the time of my death, so in this booklet I have suggested some arrangements in advance. Date of Birth: Gender: This booklet includes vital statistics, funeral service guidelines and cemetery requests, which Place of Birth: are all important to share with the funeral director while assisting you to plan the details of my service. Occupation: Employer: The booklet also includes more personal material for eulogies, obituaries and other remembrances. Business/Industry: Please accept these arrangements in the spirit they are given; with love, hoping to give you Military Service: comfort and help you to remember the times we shared. Marital Status: Maiden Name: Signature: Date: Name of Spouse: Witness: Date: Father’s Name: His place of birth: Person to be notified first upon my death: Mother’s Name: Name: Her place of birth: Address: Alberta Health Care Number: Telephone: My preference for the location of the Service or Celebration of Life: Relationship: Our Funeral Home Place of Worship Notes: Address of Place of Worship: Other Address of other location: MY PREFERENCES FOR THE SERVICE: VI TA L I N FO R M AT I O N A B O UT M E: Clergy or Officiant: or Funeral Home to recommend Name: Name: Address: Contact Information: City: 40 41 Personal Items Marker or Monument: Eyeglasses: Remove Leave On Purchased: Yes No Jewelry: Remove Leave On Monument company name: Pallbearers (Six are required) If no, inscription instructions: 1. 4. Reception location: Restaurant 2. 5. Place of Worship 3. 6. Other Musical Tributes: Reception to follow Cemetery Soloist: Reception to follow Service Organist /Pianist: Congregational Hymns: I N F O R M AT I O N F O R N E WS PA P E R A N N O U N C E M E N T S - A G U I D E L I N E : Place of Death: Favorite Genre or Artist: Date of Death: Community Organizations or Clubs that may participate: Spouse, widow or widower of: Married for number of years: CEMETERY INSTRUCTIONS: The following are my wishes regarding my final resting place. Children, their spouses and their places of residence: Name of Cemetery: Grandchildren, their spouses and their places of residence: Address: County/State: Siblings, their spouses and their places of residence: Property, crypt or niche owned? If yes, specify location written on cemetery purchase agreement Education: Final resting place: Earth burial Mausoleum Clubs and Lodges: Internment following cremation Military Service: Other Special interests, hobbies and pets, etc.: 42 43 M Y PE R S O N A L L I F E R EVI EW FO R T H E F U N E R A L A N D E U LO G Y: CLOSING ACCOUNTS I would like the following religious beliefs expressed: Favorite poem, verse or scripture: A Key Step is to the Notify the Following Places of the Individual’s Death (Each is important for different reasons) 1. Creditors: Every creditor should be notified right away to avoid having the bills continue to Some significant accomplishments in my life: run. Prompt notification of the death to various businesses saves the estate money and protects the estate of the deceased. 2. Add a family member/friend to the deceased’s chequeing account to allow immediate access to pay for funeral expenses. Payments are normally due at the time funeral arrangements are One of my fondest memories: made. If power of attorney has been previously granted, it expires at death of the principle. Pro- visions should be made for someone to access the deceased’s accounts prior to the death; this will survive death. One of the greatest inspirations in my life: 3. Credit Bureaus (also notify major credit reporting agencies, including Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Instruct them to list all accounts as “Closed. Account Holder is Deceased’: You may also request a credit report to obtain a list of all creditors and to review recent credit activities.) 4. The following entities should be notified as applicable: If I could live my life over again, I would change: a. Insurance companies e. Health & athletic clubs h. Public library b. Credit card companies f. Automobile clubs i. College alumni clubs Favorite places: c. Post office f. Automobile clubs j. Civic organisations e.g. Lions Club, Rotary etc. d. Utility companies g. Video rental stores k. Professional associations Favorite color, flower, food, etc.: 5. Before suspending cell phone accounts, retrieve any information you may want (i.e. old voice messages, photos etc.). Sometimes just hearing the voice of a deceased loved one (via voice I want my family to remember me for: messages) can make the day brighter! 6. Close online accounts and and social media accounts: A message to my family and friends: a. Email accounts d. Linkedin g. Online banking/investment portals b. Facebook/Instagram e. Youtube h. Streaming services c. Twitter f. Blogging accounts I’d like my guests to make memorial donations to: 44 45 DOCUMENTS AND P E R S O N A L PA P E R S Ordinarily, no cheques of a joint account will be honoured until permission has been obtained from the Clerk of Court, nor may a decendent’s safety deposit box be entered except in the presence of representative of the Clerk of Court and a member of the decendent’s immediate family . BANK ACCOUNTS Name of bank Address Name of bank Address D O CTO R ’ S D E TA I LS Name of doctor Address | Recommended Partner | L AWYE R ’ S D E TA I LS Name of lawyer Address Estate Services - The SAFETY DEPOSIT BOX Location of box new way to sell the Location of keys contents of an estate L O CAT I O N O F I M P O R TA N T PA P E R S Birth certificates Marriage license Last will and testament Estate content liquidation | Personal Property Appraisals | Online estate auctions Deeds and titles Mortgages and notes Insurance policies Having to manage the contents of your loved one’s estate or downsizing your own estate can be Military discharge emotionally stressful and painful. Our team is here to help you liquidate the estate quickly and efficiently, while respecting your needs in a compassionate manner. Income tax records Stocks and bonds With the right platform and the right team of professionals to advise on all matters to Other important papers assist with your estate needs. Contact us today for a free no obligation estimates 46 to see how we can assist you. 780-722-0101 www.sunriseestateservices.ca Chartered Accountant Hotel St. Arnaud Pinsent Best Western Steman 1-800-666-5026 | Page 7 780-448-0399 | Page 9 In-Home Estate Sales Healthcare Sunrise Estate Services 780-722-0101 | Page 47 Infinity Healthcare 780-809-7884 | Page 16 Funeral Law Firms Livestreaming Estate Connection riSpekt Media 780-458-8228 | Page 12 780-449-4495 | Page 20 Hautmann Law 780-434-7600 | Page 29 Recommended Financial Advisor Recommended Partners Red Seal Financial 780-906-5487 | Page 5 Partners Realtors Herrick Real Estate 780-903-4636 | Page 30 Florist Müve Team Re/Max Elite Flowers by Merle 780-707-9484 | Page 6 780-482-1222 | Page 30 Schmidt Realty 780-318-4510 | Page 23 Green Burial Cemetery Wholesale HERE T WITH Y ESTATE Rosehill Green Burial Memorials 1-(780)-434-5433 | Page 26 Europa Memorial We understand that this is a transition period for you and your loved ones. That is 780-667-6208 | Page 27 why we are here to help ensure a smooth Home Buyer transaction that is worry-free regarding the estate's sale. The Müve Team is a group of REALTORS® here to make your life simpler by handling everything such as paperwork and negotiations. Sunrise Home Buyers Our award-winning team ensures that your Real Estate needs are met. We are one call away and are always here to ensure you 587-982-7576 | Page 35 spend less time with the little details and more time with your loved ones. Phone: 780-707-9484 Address: 7815 - 101 Aven Website: www.muvetea 49