If you’re like many Milwaukeeans, you’ve attended a funeral – only to find yourself thinking about your own funeral in the days that followed. Or maybe you’ve heard a friend talk about how they put their own funeral arrangements in writing, but you haven’t taken the steps to do so yourself. Some of the families we talk to at our funeral homes in Milwaukee, New Berlin, and Brookfield tell us it never even occurred to them that they can take control of their own end-of-life plans.
At Krause Funeral Homes, we see every day how preplanning your own final farewell not only allows for thoughtful decisions to be made but also spares loved ones from having to make these arrangements during a difficult time. This is why our team encourages everyone to preplan their own funeral.
When we meet with our Milwaukee neighbors to discuss their plans, we hear several common misconceptions about the process. We want you to know your many options before making decisions about a funeral, cremation, or burial. Read on for the information you need to know.
Misconception #1: “I have to pay for my arrangements when I preplan.”
At Krause Funeral Homes, you do not have to pre-pay if you choose to preplan. If you prefer, we can simply save your preferences for when the time comes. Keep in mind, though, that there are advantages to pre-paying, such as ensuring there will be no hidden costs and taking the burden of paying for the service off your family’s shoulders.
Misconception #2: “If I preplan, those arrangements are set in stone and cannot be changed – so I better wait before putting anything in writing.”
Maybe you initially thought you wanted to be buried in another state near your childhood home but later decide you want your final resting place to be in a cemetery closer to your family. Or perhaps you weren’t sure about cremation but have since reconsidered. Stating your preferences now does not mean you cannot modify them down the road. We realize circumstances and opinions can change, and we are here to accommodate your wishes at any time.
Misconception #3: “Preplanning is for those who are close to death. I’m young and healthy and think it would be morbid to have this discussion.”
Think of it this way: There are many parts of life where a little planning now pays off later. Preplanning your funeral is one of them – and it doesn’t have to take long. With our planning checklist, you can review every detail that needs to be addressed. And our online planning form makes the process a breeze. You can even start preplanning from the comfort of your own home.
No matter your age or stage in life, taking the steps to put your plans in writing will give you peace of mind that these decisions are taken care of. Not only that, you will have all your important paperwork in order, which will reduce stress on several levels.
We meet with far too many families who would have benefited greatly if their loved one had preplanned. Don’t let your family be among them. Check out our online planning form now or give us a call anytime to meet with our professional staff. Trust us – preplanning is a gift for both you and your family. Get started today.