Frequently Asked Questions

What is a funeral?

The funeral is a ceremony for those who mourn. It provides an opportunity for family and friends to express their love, respect, and grief.

What type of service should I have?

Only you can answer that question. If the type of service conducted for the deceased is not noted in a pre-plan, the family decides. The service is usually held at a place of worship or at the funeral home, and it may vary according to the family's wishes.

Can I personalize my funeral service?

Absolutely, in fact, we recommend it. After all, the funeral is a celebration of life. Funeral directors are happy to discuss all options and ensure your funeral is tailored to your wishes. It may be personalized in many unique ways. Contact us to explore the possibilities.

Why should we have a public viewing?

There are many reasons to view the deceased. Viewing aids the grief process by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death.

Why do we need an obituary notice?

Though you do not have to have an obituary, it is helpful to friends and the community to have an obituary notice published announcing the death and when service is to be held. A notice can be placed in a local newspaper, on our website, or on Facebook.

What should I do if the death occurs in the middle of the night or on the weekend?

We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All you need to do is place a call to us.

What should I do if a death occurs while away from home?

Your funeral director can assist you if a death occurs anywhere on the globe. Contact your hometown funeral director of choice immediately. They will assume responsibility and coordinate the arrangements for the return of the deceased person to their community. They may engage the services of a funeral director in the place of death who will act as their agent.

Is embalming mandatory by law?

No. However, certain factors of time, health, and possible legal requirements might make embalming either appropriate or necessary.

Can I have a visitation period and a funeral service if cremation is chosen?

Yes. Choosing cremation does not mean you cannot have a visitation and a funeral service.

What is funeral preplanning, and why should I consider it?

Funeral preplanning involves making arrangements for your funeral in advance, allowing you to make decisions about your services, burial or cremation preferences, and other details. It can ease the burden on your family during a difficult time and ensure your wishes are honored.

Can I transfer my preplanned funeral arrangements to another funeral home?

Yes, you can always transfer your preplanned arrangements to another funeral home. However, policies may vary. We recommend that you contact us to help with the transfer process.

What information do I need to provide for preplanning my funeral?

When preplanning, you’ll need to provide personal biographical information such as contact details, preferences for the type of service (burial or cremation), location, and any specific wishes.

What are the costs associated with preplanning a funeral?

There is no cost to “preplanning” a funeral. The appointment is free. Prepaying is optional and is often considered when preplanning to alleviate the financial burden on your loved ones.

Can I make changes to my preplanned arrangements later?

Yes, you can update or change your preplanned arrangements at any time. We encourage you to review your plans periodically to ensure they still reflect your wishes.

What happens to my preplanned arrangements if I move to another state?

If you move, you can transfer your preplanned arrangements to a funeral home in your new location. We can assist you in understanding the process and any required documentation.

What should I consider when choosing a funeral home?

Consider factors such as services offered, staff professionalism, location, reputation, cost, and the ability to accommodate your specific needs.

How can I start the preplanning process?

To begin preplanning, you can contact us directly by phone, email, or website to schedule an appointment. Our compassionate staff will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you create a plan that reflects your wishes.

Who can make funeral arrangements in the event of your death?

In most cases, your nearest next of kin will be making decisions upon death. However, when there is a unique circumstance with the next of kin, the State of Michigan allows you to designate a funeral representative who will carry out your wishes. These forms are available at the funeral home.

Can preplanning assist with Medicaid and SSI?

Yes, when properly structured, prepaid funeral agreements can be beneficial, allowing funeral expenses to be prepaid while maintaining eligibility.

What resources are available for grief support after a funeral?

We offer various resources for grief support, including referrals to local support groups, counseling services, and literature on coping with loss. Our goal is to support families not just during the funeral but throughout their healing journey.

If you have any further questions, please call us at (734) 241-4600 or email us at [email protected].