If there’s one thing we’ve learned over this last year, it’s that we have much less control over our circumstances than we think we do. Our expert staff at Krause Funeral Homes & Cremation Services has had many conversations about how much we miss “normal” life. Chances are, you can relate on many levels.
During this time, we’ve noticed that more of our neighbors in Milwaukee, Brookfield, and New Berlin are contacting us to put their own funeral arrangements in writing. Most tell us that they want to express their preferences instead of leaving these decisions to their family. Others mention that they’ve been thinking more about their own mortality and want to be sure their funeral is a reflection of their life. Others still say they have strong opinions about cremation and want to be sure the funeral home knows what they want.
What would you want us to know?
If we were to sit down to talk about your end-of-life wishes, what would you want us to know? Certainly you would have ideas for your funeral. Imagine all of the personal details that can be included. Things like certain songs, Scripture or poetry readings, and a keepsake you would like each guest to receive. Maybe your favorite kind of flower or a Bible verse or quote printed out on a bookmark. It’s these kinds of details that make a funeral memorable. And when you make note of those preferences, you’ll know your tribute will be carried out the way you want.
After the funeral is over, would you like your friends and family to gather for a meal or more casual celebration of your life right here at our funeral home? A reception is an opportunity to share stories and memories while spending time together “breaking bread.” To top it off, since Krause is the first funeral home in Wisconsin to obtain a state license to offer in-house catering facilities including beer and wine, you can include your favorite beverage.
Think of how your loved ones will enjoy catching up and paying tribute while dining on buffet sandwiches, salads, soft drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and more! Taking a few minutes to put your thoughts down on paper will give your loved ones a memorable time they’ll never forget.
Your final resting place
Here’s something else to consider: Do you have an opinion about a final resting place you would like future generations of your family to visit? If you choose cremation, we offer a number of final disposition options including beautiful urns or keepsakes. Or we can help arrange for the scattering of your cremated remains in a place that is significance to you.
If you’re more inclined to select a traditional burial, there are also many service choices open to you, including a graveside service. Some people select their cemetery plot ahead of time, perhaps one that is near other members of their family. Other options include creating a customized casket and use of our 19th century-style hearse drawn by a V-twin-powered 3-wheel Harley Davidson Road King motorcycle. Talk about a stylish ride!
In all our years helping Milwaukeeans plan their arrangements, not one has ever had second thoughts about their decision to express their preferences. Not only does this put you in the driver’s seat, it also reduces the stress your family will face. They will be allowed to spend their time grieving and healing rather than trying to navigate dozens of funeral-related details. Surely you can see that preplanning is one last gift you can give to them!
Check out our online form to start the process, or you can contact us over the phone or video chat, or in person. Trust us – you won’t regret it.