Looking through photographs – especially when they include images of a loved one who has died – is a way to open a door to the past and spend time remembering. At Krause Funeral Homes, when we help Milwaukeeans plan funerals, cremations, and burials, we often talk about how to display beloved photos for friends and family to enjoy during the service or reception.
After all, these snapshots of the past remind us of what made a loved one unique. Their personality, passions, and hobbies. How they impacted our lives, and the special moments we want to remember when we think of them. So often, we see families gathering around photos at a funeral, sharing stories and memories of vacations, holidays, graduations, and weddings. This time spent together reminiscing is a healthy step toward healing and keeping the loved one’s memory alive.
To help the families we serve, we offer “Signature Services,” which we include for free because we think they are so important to the grieving process. Several of our signature services have to do with photos:
ONLINE MEMORIAL TRIBUTE AND CONDOLENCES
We will place the newspaper notice, a picture, and/or an extended life story onto our website to allow your family and friends to read the notice online and e-mail their condolences to the funeral home. We will print those condolences and add them to your guest register book for a permanent tribute. You may also opt to allow other family and friends to post photos of their own for all to share.
MEMORIAL PORTRAIT
We will use the favorite picture you have selected to display in our frames by the register station. Copies will then be given to you to bring home to frame and hang in a special place.
TRIBUTE VIDEO
You can bring us 30-50 favorite pictures, either in loose photo form and/or digital and we will scan them in to create a tribute video to be shown during the visitation or gathering service, or as a private remembrance for your family. If you would like them to appear in a particular order, simply place a number on the back. We can also link the video to the web so other family and friends can see it and get copies of pictures, if desired.
PICTURES OF FLORAL TRIBUTES
We will digitally photograph each flower tribute and the card that accompanies it. We will mail you the pictures to place in the guest book as a permanent record and to help you send thank you cards after the service.
Whether it’s a few days, months, or years after losing a loved one, looking through photos can be helpful. Taking the time to reflect on happy or meaningful moments is a comfort – especially when photos bring a smile to your face or bring to mind happy times together.
For some people, though, seeing photos of their lost loved one can be incredibly painful, especially soon after their death. It’s important to be gentle with yourself during a time of grief. If you’re having a difficult time, remember that our Krause team is here for you long after the funeral is over. We have 80+ years of experience caring for grieving families, and we also know the best specialists, resources, and support groups Milwaukee has to offer.
If you’re interested in learning more about our services, or preplanning your own funeral arrangements, stop by any of our four locations or call us at your convenience.