Blog

A Final Tribute in Flight: Honoring Charles “Jack” DeVore

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 20:02:03 GMT

When family and friends gathered at Catawba Island Cemetery on October 27, 2025 to celebrate the life of Charles “Jack” DeVore, the sky itself became part of the service. As loved ones looked upward, the familiar hum of a Ford Tri-Motor aircraft echoed overhead, a powerful and deeply personal tribute to a man whose passion for aviation touched everyone who knew him.

Affectionately known as “The Flying Barber,” Jack played a vital role in restoring and rebuilding the iconic Ford Tri-Motor through his work with the Tri-Motor Heritage Foundation. His dedication, skill, and enthusiasm helped bring this historic aircraft back to life, preserving a piece of aviation history for future generations. When the Ford Tri-Motor soared above his final resting place, it wasn’t just an extraordinary moment; it was a farewell that reflected who Jack truly was. You can read more about his remarkable life and legacy in his obituary.

Creating a tribute like Jack’s flyover begins with understanding the person behind the story: their passions, their achievements, and the things that made their life unique. At Walker Funeral Homes, we believe every farewell should be as individual as the life it honors. Our team works closely with families to design services that go beyond tradition, capturing the essence of a loved one in ways that bring comfort, connection, and meaning.

For Jack’s family, incorporating aviation into his service was a natural choice, a way to say goodbye that felt authentic and deeply personal. Whether it’s a special piece of music, a themed display, or a one-of-a-kind experience like this flyover, these personal touches help transform a service into something memorable and healing.

We take pride in providing a higher standard of care by creating meaningful healing experiences that celebrate life in all its uniqueness. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to honor your loved one in a way that feels truly personal, we invite you to explore ideas on our personalization page.

Fly high, Jack — your spirit soars on.

Joe and Diane's Story: The Heart Behind Our Maumee Garden

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 20:06:17 GMT

Every visit to our Maumee location , Maison-Dardenne-Walker, begins with a view of our beautiful garden and patio. Since 2018, Joe and Diane have worked hard to create this colorful, peaceful setting that welcomes every family who visits us.

Diane’s love for gardening comes from her father, who tended gardens at a local church and his own home. She grew up helping him with his passion and keeps his legacy alive by working in our garden to create a picturesque gathering place for the families we serve.

Joe and Diane enjoy seeing the results of their hard work reflected in the garden’s stunning blooms and the appreciation of those who visit. They love being a part of the Walker Funeral Home family, because they are surrounded by those who deeply value their work and character. Some of their favorite spots in the garden include the new fountain, the flagpole, and the flowers by the Maison-Dardenne-Walker sign. They like to include patriotic colors and incorporate seasonal flowers and decorations both outside and inside the funeral home when they can.

The duo looks forward to making continuous improvements in the garden to enhance the space for families. They describe the area as “serene,” giving those who visit a place to convene with others or to reconnect with nature. Joe and Diane are very proud of the Maumee garden and are excited for what’s to come.

The Importance of Preplanning with a Chronic or Terminal Illness

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

At Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , we encourage every family who walks through our doors to preplan their funeral or cremation . We’ve helped families in Northwest Ohio experience the benefits of making funeral arrangements ahead of time. Many of them feel peace of mind knowing all the important end-of-life decisions have already been made and that the related costs have been calculated. When you have a chronic or terminal illness, it is especially difficult and often necessary to preplan your funeral. Taking this important step can provide much-needed consolation to both you and your loved ones.

Preplanning can help you regain a sense of control.

When you’re faced with a chronic or terminal illness, so many life details are out of your control. Preplanning your funeral provides peace of mind knowing this area of your life is in order. When you preplan with us, we’ll keep your details in a safe place here at our funeral home so that they are available when they are needed. Just like you plan your treatments and medications for your illness, planning your funeral can help you and your family know what the future holds. You’ll also save your loved ones the stress of guessing about your preferences after you’re gone.

Preplanning provides clarity around cost and other details.

Depending on your individual health insurance plan and financial circumstances, medical treatments for a chronic condition or a terminal illness can be expensive. When you preplan a funeral, you can choose the service options that fit your budget. You also have the option to prepay when you make prearrangements with us, which can help ensure your funeral costs won’t rise over time.

Preplanning lets you make every decision at your own pace.

There are a lot of things to think about when you’re faced with a terminal illness, and we support area families in making decisions at their own pace, however fast or slow this may be. There are many details to consider while you preplan, such as the type of food served at your reception or the flower arrangements that adorn your casket. Our experienced staff will help you navigate every decision as you preplan.

If you have more questions about preplanning your funeral or cremation with us , contact our funeral home. Our compassionate team is here 24/7 to help guide you through all the necessary details.

4 Ways Our Care Team Goes Above and Beyond

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Someone you love is nearing death, and you have to decide which funeral home to call – and fast.

This is a situation many of our neighbors in Northwest Ohio find themselves in every day. And this is why we’re sharing this blog. Because if you or your friend or family member is facing a loss, we want you to know you can turn to us at Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory . We will take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: the special people in your life.

How does our care team go above and beyond for families who come to us?

As part of the Northwest Ohio community, we know what locals want. While some of us are proud to be native Ohioans, the rest of us have moved here and now consider Ohio our home. We have extensive knowledge of the beliefs, cultures, and traditions of the people who live here. We consider every family we serve as our neighbors and friends – and we’re told that this level of compassion shows in the way we treat others. We listen and we care, and our years of professional experience help us highlight your loved one’s unique personality at the funeral and help you heal afterwards. When you come to Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , you’re not coming to a corporate business preoccupied with the bottom line. You won’t be “just a number.” Our personal service means everything to us, and that will be evident the moment you walk through our doors.
We make each funeral a meaningful reflection of the person whose life is being remembered. When you come to one of our locations, we will help you weave unique touches and signature services throughout the ceremony. Keep in mind that these personalization options don’t have to feel forced. We will be there to help you identify the options that work best for your family and tell the story of your loved one’s life.

Here’s an example: We can display photographs, memorabilia, or service or military awards provided by the family. Maybe your dad never missed a Browns or Bengals game and was proud of the jerseys and ticket stubs he collected over the years. We could arrange these items in an attractive display to showcase his passion. Or perhaps your favorite aunt made hundreds of Christmas cookies every December. We could replicate the recipes and hand out recipe cards so guests can make and share their cookies for years to come. These are just two examples of how we can take a person’s passions, accomplishments, and talents and shine a spotlight on them in a special way.

We take exceptional care of our facilities so that families feel comfortable the moment they step through the doors. When you walk into one of our funeral homes in Northwest Ohio, we want you to feel at ease. We do everything possible to create an inviting environment where we can take care of you. We know it’s the little things that make the difference, and we will treat you with the same kind of compassion and respect we would extend to our own family at such a difficult time.

As an added measure of trust, we own and operate our own crematory , unlike many other funeral homes and cremation societies that outsource cremation to third-party providers.

We’re here to support you after the funeral is ove r. Having experienced loss firsthand, we’re aware that the days and weeks following a death are often very busy – but when family and friends go home, a new wave of grief sets in. Our aftercare services are second to none, providing the support needed after a loss. With years of experience caring for grieving families, we know the best specialists, resources, and support groups Ohio has to offer

As you can see, family has always been at the heart of everything we do here at Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory, and it’s our hope that you will turn to us when you need our assistance. You can be assured that we will go above and beyond with every detail. Whether you are interested in putting your own funeral preferences in writing to ease the stress on your family when the time comes, or you are in need of our services immediately, we are here for you around the clock.

Is a Celebrant the Right Choice for You?

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT

For Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , part of providing excellent care to the people of Northwest Ohio includes being able to serve the needs of all families. Our area is becoming increasingly diverse, and we are honored to serve a variety of people from different cultures, traditions, and religions. We know how to help anyone from any background create a meaningful tribute to their loved one. We also help people plan their own service , so they have control over how the story of their life is presented.

One of the ways we make sure we can serve everyone is by offering funerals led by a certified celebrant. While we s erve many people of faith, some of our families either do not attend a place of worship regularly or, for whatever reason, do not want to have a traditional, religious funeral service. Celebrants are trained to create the most meaningful farewells through incorporating unique aspects that define who your loved one was. They are the perfect alternative for those who do not have a member of the clergy to perform their service.

We have a library of resources at our fingertips here at Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , so our experts can highlight stories, experiences, and memories. This might include:

· Readings

· Special music

· Poetry

· Ceremonies

· Eulogies

Our resources give our celebrants the tools they need to help create a personalized tribute that truly tells either your loved one’s story or your own, if you choose to preplan .

People of faith often choose to use a celebrant as well. While they may have a member of the clergy share a prayer or message, they may have other elements they’re including – like a special reading and personal eulogies from friends and family members. A celebrant is professionally trained and certified to act as a master of ceremonies of sorts, ensuring each element of the service is tied together seamlessly.

We see it time and time again – it’s those highly personalized touches that add meaning to a service, creating a healing experience for family and friends. Our celebrants will always exceed your expectations. They will spend the time it takes with you to glean those memories, anecdotes, and special moments to make the farewell perfect.

We invite you to reach out to our professional, compassionate team to learn more about whether or not a celebrant service is the right choice for you and your family.

How to Honor a Deceased Loved One at Your Wedding

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 04:00:00 GMT

A wedding presents a special opportunity to gather with loved ones to celebrate a momentous life occasion. If you are planning a wedding, you may feel called to honor a deceased loved one during the ceremony. There are many ways to pay tribute to a loved one this way, and our Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory staff encourages brides- and grooms-to-be to approach this aspect of the wedding ceremony with creativity and authenticity. If one of the following options resonates with you, feel free to adapt it to suit your venue and needs.

Wear something of theirs on your special day.

“Something borrowed, something blue…” goes the Old English wedding rhyme. Even if you don’t have something blue, you can wear an object that belonged to your loved one to honor their life. Perhaps it’s a piece of jewelry, a handkerchief tucked into a suit jacket pocket, or a wedding veil that belonged to your loved one. Having this item with you throughout the ceremony will keep you thinking of them as you say your vows.

Feature their signature recipe on the reception menu.

If your loved one was an avid cook or foodie, a wedding reception is the perfect place to pay tribute to them. Maybe they enjoyed eating olives or shrimp cocktail, so you serve these food items prior to the main meal. If your loved one was a talented baker, perhaps you could highlight their signature flavors, like strawberry or vanilla, in the wedding cake.

Honor your loved one in the wedding program.

The wedding program is a wonderful way to honor your loved one, as you’ll be able to keep the printed paper as a physical memento after the event has ended. You can add a line at the bottom of the page saying the ceremony is being held in your loved one’s honor and even include a favorite photo of them. Alternatively, you might place their favorite quote or line of poetry somewhere on the program. It’s a subtle way to remember your loved one on your wedding day.

Light a candle in memory of your loved one.

Candles create a beautiful ambience at a wedding, especially an evening ceremony or reception. Consider placing small tea lights on tables with a note encouraging guests to light a candle in honor of their own loved ones who have died. You might also light one large candle in honor of your loved one and place it in a prominent location in the ceremony venue.

Much like a funeral, a wedding is a meaningful gathering with loved ones to mark a momentous occasion. If you need help preplanning your own funeral or making arrangements for a loved one, contact our dedicated team.

How to Make a Veteran’s Funeral Special

Thu, 29 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Our staff at Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory agrees there is no greater honor than caring for veterans and their families. We will never forget moving moments like these: Soldiers presenting the folded American flag to a grieving family. A bugler playing Taps. A three-gun volley fired by service members.

Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory has a long history of honoring veterans in our area. Our dedication is deeply personal, with more than 90 years of service in providing our neighbors throughout Northwest Ohio with high-quality service, whether they choose traditional burial or cremation for their loved ones

We’ve seen how our servicemen and women magnify the spirit of courage and national pride that sets our great country apart. During times of crisis and times of triumph, our nation’s heroes give so much to protect our ideals of freedom, justice, and equality.

We hope it is evident that we take our responsibility to honor military men and women seriously, both in life and in death. In part, we do this by making sure a veteran’s family knows about all the honors and benefits they deserve. When it comes to making a veteran’s funeral special, consider these options:

Honor and Patriot Guard: A dedicated group of veterans may serve as honor guard to offer a final salute for any veteran entrusted to our care. The Patriot Guard (motorcycle riders who volunteer to escort a veteran’s procession) may also be used.

Presidential Memorial Certificate: We secure an official memorial certificate bearing the signature and seal of the President of the United States for the spouse or child of a veteran. This document further expresses recognition of the veteran’s dedication to his or her country.

Benefits: With a copy of your loved one’s honorable discharge, Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory will immediately prepare the necessary documentation to apply for veterans’ benefits. In some cases, spouses and dependent children may be eligible for benefits as well. Benefits may include:

· American Flag

Families may choose to place it in or drape it over the casket or have it present at a memorial service.

· Military Honors

Flag folding and presentation to next of kin, trumpeted Taps, color guard or military personnel pallbearers, and a rifle volley may be available depending on the level of military honors earned.

· National Cemetery Burial

Many times, the grave space, opening, and closing are included.

· Grave Marker

Usually made of bronze or granite, an official marker is often included.

Throughout our decades of helping Northwest Ohio neighbors say goodbye to their loved ones, we have been privileged to arrange funerals highlighting military accomplishments.

When it’s time to pay tribute to the veteran in your life , or if you are a veteran and would like to put your funeral plans in place ahead of time, reach out to our caring team by phone or stop by any of our eight locations . We are here ready to say thank you to the many brave men and women who have defended our freedom.

3 Preplanning Mistakes to Avoid

Thu, 29 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Time and time again, we hear from families Northwest Ohio who’ve had this experience: After attending a burial or end-of-life celebration for a loved one, they decide it would be a good idea to express their own preferences. After all, it’s common to have more opinions about your own end-of-life tribute than you might expect. These could be opinions about where to hold the funeral itself or the location of the final resting place.

What about cremation versus a traditional burial? Have you thought about having your cremated remains scattered at a location that is meaningful to you? There’s no question that these are important decisions – and it makes sense for you to be the one making them.

There are other decisions to consider. Whether to have a large graveside gathering or a more private, family-only event. If you’re planning a celebration of life service, will you have an officiant, and how can you add personal touches throughout? We understand that each family’s choices are distinct, and our services are tailored to fit every need.

At Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , we believe every person is unique – and an end-of-life tribute is an opportunity to express what made a life special. When you put your own burial or cremation plans in place, you’ll have confidence that your personality, passions, and accomplishments are conveyed in your final farewell. This is your unique opportunity to help your loved ones begin the grieving process , as they gather, share stories and memories, and participate in a healing ritual you designed.

That said, there are mistakes that can be made along the way. Mistakes like these:

1. Making decisions too quickly without knowing all your options

Preplanning has never been easier. With our online process, you can put your arrangements in place from the comfort of your home. You are always welcome to reach out to us to meet in person at one of our Northwest Ohio locations. It is important, though, to know all the options available to you.

The old saying “you don’t know what you don’t know” applies to end-of-life preplanning – and we want to be sure you’re making informed decisions every step of the way.

2. Minimizing the importance of preplanning

Many of us have heard a loved one say, “I don’t want any end-of-life celebration.” Or “After I die, just take care of things as quickly and cheaply as possible.” Here’s what you need to remember: A proper cremation or burial brings closure and is an essential part of the healing process. Whether you plan a witnessed cremation or a graveside burial service, paying tribute to the life lived is essential. An opportunity to offer and receive comfort from loved ones helps people accept a death and begin to walk through grief. This is also why expressing your opinions and adding personal touches is so special for your loved ones.

Your end-of-life arrangements should reflect how you want to be remembered. If you simply go through the motions as fast as possible just to get preplanning “over with” – you’ll miss out on an opportunity to give your friends and family the gift of a beautiful memorial.

3. Failing to ask questions about costs and other details

It’s a common misconception that if you choose to preplan, you also must prepay. At Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , that is not the case. If you’d prefer, we can simply keep all your preferences on file for when the time comes. There are advantages to prepaying, such as locking in today’s costs for burial and cremation and removing the burden of paying for the service from your family’s shoulders. It’s important to know the breakdown of costs and what each service entails. We are planning experts and are happy to answer your questions. Our reputation in Northwest Ohio is unsurpassed, and this includes transparency as we help families make decisions for their loved ones – and themselves.

The most important thing is that you get started preplanning . Think of it this way: You plan for every other important event in life; why not your own funeral? Reach out to us today or begin the process online. Trust us – you won’t regret it.

A Tale of Two Funerals: Family-Owned V. Corporate

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Family-owned funeral homes like Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory have become harder to find over the years as large corporations purchase one after another funeral home that was originally founded by a family. But here in Northwest Ohio, our family has been serving our neighbors since 1933 – and we will continue to do so with kindness, compassion, and professionalism that is truly all our own.

Given the power of online reviews and the recommendations of our neighbors, we know our success hinges on how we treat each and every family we serve. Whether planning a funeral , memorial service, or cremation , we want to provide the most thorough and personalized care possible. That’s what drives us – not corporate mandates or increasing our bottom line to please faceless shareholders. If you’re looking to plan a service for a loved one or want to put your own funeral plans in place, our caring staff will make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

So, as you think about where you’ll turn for help when the time comes, consider how planning a service might unfold, depending on whether you’re working with a family-owned funeral home or a corporate-owned funeral home.

The Corporate Choice

Bill’s mother hadn’t been doing well for years, but Bill was still surprised when she died at age 76. After a quick online search, Bill turned to the nearest funeral home for help, a corporate-owned franchise he had not heard about before. From the get-go, Bill was overwhelmed by the choices he had to make – and so quickly, too! He felt rushed by the funeral director, confused by the arrangement options, and surprised at the prices – which were definitely corporate prices! Bill knew his emotions were raw, so he tried to be patient, but he had a feeling the funeral director was pushing the most expensive services and merchandise instead of the ones best suited to Bill’s mother and family. In the end, Bill made a number of hasty (and costly!) decisions he would later regret. He walked away upset by the impersonal care he received, unsure if the service was what his mother would have wanted, and frustrated that he didn’t take more time when choosing a funeral home.

The Family-Owned Choice

When Joan’s beloved Aunt Diane died suddenly of a heart attack, Joan took it upon herself to head up the funeral planning. Aunt Diane had been like a second mother to her since her own mother had died when she was a teenager. She remembered attending her mother’s funeral at the family-owned funeral home across town. She has such fond memories of the service, particularly the way the funeral director treated her and her family. They were so kind – it helped during such a difficult time. So that funeral home was the first number she called. Joan was immediately put at ease – and a little surprised – when the funeral director remembered her family. He was very patient and understanding as he talked her through the first of many decisions she would have to make. As Joan and her family planned Aunt Diane’s funeral, they clearly understood all their options as well as the accompanying costs – which were less than she expected. Joan felt supported and knew she could trust the funeral director and his team. Joan was continually impressed by how involved and compassionate the staff was throughout the planning process. She left the funeral filled with cherished memories of her beloved aunt. She had wanted the best for her aunt’s final farewell, and that’s exactly what she got.

If you need to plan a funeral, are looking for support as you grieve , or are interested in learning more about preplanning , reach out to us today. Our family truly cares about the people in this community and wants to help in any way we can.

How to Tell a Loved One’s Story with Personalization

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Nowadays, it’s becoming more common to personalize a loved one’s funeral. This is a great way to celebrate their individual interests, talents, and accomplishments alongside family and friends. At Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , we encourage every family to plan a service honoring what made their loved one so special. There are a variety of ways to do this, and our experienced team will help you find the perfect one for you and your family.

Incorporate photography and video.

A popular way to memorialize a loved one is to integrate images of them into the service. Whether it’s photos or videos, our team can help you craft a meaningful tribute video to play before, during, or after the service. You may also choose to showcase photos featuring significant moments from your loved one’s life on a memory table set up at the venue of your choice.

Plan an outdoor release ceremony.

Saying goodbye to a loved one is difficult, but sending something out into the atmosphere in their honor can help encourage an emotional release. Our team can help your family with an eco-friendly balloon release or a butterfly release, depending on your family’s preferences. Whatever you choose to set free, it’s a beautiful act that helps comfort those who are grieving.

Hold a catered reception.

Gathering with friends and family to share food and memories in your loved one’s honor provides an opportunity for healing. Whether it’s a sit-down dinner or casual appetizers, a reception is a beautiful gesture both for the loved one you have lost and those who are left behind. Our experienced staff will help you find an appropriate venue and arrange everything from menus to music.

Personalize the casket or urn.

Whether you choose traditional burial or cremation , you can personalize the merchandise however you wish. We can help you select an elegant floral arrangement to enhance your loved one’s casket or inscribe a special phrase or quote on a cremation urn. There are many ways to memorialize your loved one, and our knowledgeable staff can offer guidance.

To learn more about personalizing a funeral or cremation with us, we welcome our neighbors in Northwest Ohio to contact our dedicated team. We’ll provide more information on how we can help you pay tribute to your loved one and answer any questions you may have.

How to Make a Cremation Service Meaningful

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Years ago, there was one factor that kept many Northwest Ohio families from considering cremation when they were planning a funeral. People believed that if they chose cremation, they could not have a funeral service that was meaningful and told the story of their loved one’s life. Of course, this is not true. Funeral traditions are constantly changing and evolving over time, and families are now discovering that cremation is a dignified form of commemoration, when you choose an experienced funeral home that cares about your family.

As traditions change, we are always developing new and meaningful ways to honor and memorialize the life that was lived. Attitudes, generally, toward what is “appropriate” during a funeral have broadened, which means we can offer families new personalized choices and unique forms of tribute and remembrance. However, families who have lost a loved one sometimes find these choices overwhelming. We can help. The best place to start is making a list of your loved one’s interests, hobbies, accomplishments, as well as faith and cultural traditions.

In the past, some people viewed cremation as only a way to save money on funeral costs. It’s true that direct cremation is available, with no memorial service and no tribute to the person who has died. But now, families who choose cremation are discovering that dignified and touching services are available to help them honor and celebrate their loved one. Many experts say it’s also an important step in the grieving process. When you choose cremation, you may still have a visitation, memorial service, traditional funeral service, graveside observance, and many other comforting and healing rituals. And you can personalize cremation services with vaults, caskets, and urns that bear emblems and engravings denoting religious affiliation, hobbies, special interests, and/or military or civic service.

When you choose cremation , ask these important questions: What kind of memorial services are available? What are the choices for personalization and telling the story of the life that has been lived? And most importantly, what measures does the funeral home take to ensure a respectful cremation process? Our on-site crematory lets us preserve and protect the dignity of your loved one. And that’s the best assurance of all.

How a Funeral Reception Helps Loved Ones Heal

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:00:00 GMT

We can’t tell you how many times people have told our staff at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory that attending their loved one’s funeral was a blur. That the time went by so quickly they didn’t have a chance to reflect or connect with family and friends.

Having attended countless funerals over the years, we see how this happens. Many times, those attending a funeral are in shock. Even if they had time to prepare for the death of their loved one , it’s still hard to comprehend that they’re gone. In the case of an unexpected death, those in attendance are often numb and haven’t been able to process their loss.

We are here to help families design a funeral that is highly personal and meaningful, with details reflective of their loved one. Time and time again, we see how valuable it is to gather after the funeral to share memories and a meal. The funeral brings everyone together – some of whom may not have seen each other for a long time – but it’s the reception where people can let down their guard to talk, laugh, cry, and reconnect in a more casual setting.

This is an opportunity to share treasured memories and hear how lives were touched by the person who meant so much. Many times, stories are told that the family hasn’t heard before, which enhances the time together.

Think about serving your grandfather’s favorite Sunday dinner, or the cookies your aunt was known for baking every December. With Walker, the options are nearly endless.

At its root, a reception brings everyone together in one room, which aids the grieving process . This is where laughter and tears are shared, and conversation and connectedness occur. This is when healing begins.

Our staff is passionate about helping Northwest Ohio families create one-of-a-kind final farewells to honor the memory of their loved one. Let us help you along the way.

Debunking Burial Myths

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT

For a host of reasons, many people feel uncomfortable talking about death and death-adjacent topics like burial and cremation. While it may not be easy to have these conversations, it is important to distinguish between myth and fact when it comes to end-of-life options. At Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory , our staff frequently speaks with families from all over Northwest Ohio who have heard rumors or myths about burial.

Here are five of the most common burial myths debunked:

1. A burial vault is required for burial.

A burial vault was originally used to protect the casket from grave robbers. This type of structure also helps support the surrounding ground and lessen maintenance costs for cemeteries. According to Ohio state laws, a burial vault is not required for burial. It’s a personal preference whether you choose to use a burial vault for yourself or your loved one. Please note that local cemeteries might require some outer burial container to keep the ground level after burial, which helps them maintain the aesthetic appeal of the cemetery.

2. A religious official must be present at every burial.

Northwest Ohio is a diverse area that is home to families hailing from various cultural and, religious backgrounds. For this reason, not everyone in our community wants a priest or pastor to oversee their loved one’s graveside burial. Families seeking an alternative option can arrange for a certified celebrant to lead their loved one’s service and incorporate special readings, music, and other personal touches into the memorial.

3. Burial is harmful to the environment.

Cremation is often believed to be a more eco-conscious choice compared to traditional burial. At Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory, families can choose to hold a green burial for their loved one and incorporate elements like a biodegradable burial shroud and a sustainably grown casket into the burial.

4. There are no burial options for families who choose cremation.

Choosing cremation for your loved one means you can still decide to hold a graveside burial . Our cremation professionals will assist you in selecting a cremation urn or box.

5. Choosing traditional burial limits your personalization options.

When you choose traditional burial with the funeral home of your choice, you can decide to incorporate a customized casket, a video tribute, an environmentally friendly balloon release, and a variety of other personalized aspects into the service.

If after reading this, you still find yourself with questions about burial, contact our supportive staff by phone or email. We are here 24/7 and ready to serve you and your family.

Celebrating Valentine’s After Losing Your Partner

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Holidays often trigger intense emotions in the hearts of those who have lost someone special. Valentine’s Day is no exception, especially for our neighbors in Ohio who have experienced the death of a spouse or romantic partner. Whether the romance lasted five years or 50, this day can feel like a shock to the system. Our dedicated staff at Walker Funeral Homes and Crematory has walked alongside many people throughout Northwest Ohio as they’ve grieved and moved toward healing.

Here are some tips from our team to help you get to the other side of the romantic holiday.

Meet up with friends.

“Galentine’s Day” (or February 13) is a recently created holiday to celebrate female friendship. Spending time with friends – both men and women – is a special way to enjoy Valentine’s Day. Gather in a restaurant for a meal or get together at someone’s house to play cards or watch a lighthearted film.

Prioritize self-care.

When you’re in the midst of grief, it’s easy to neglect taking care of yourself. Set aside some time and money to do something special that will make you feel nourished and loved this time of year. Whether it’s booking a massage at a local spa or ordering takeout from your favorite restaurant, plan ahead, relax, and enjoy yourself.

Celebrate your loved one.

Consider spending some time this Valentine’s Day remembering your loved one in a unique way. Write them a love letter that includes special memories you shared, place a bouquet of red roses atop their grave or memorial, or play their favorite music while you make dinner. Whatever it is that brings you closer to your loved one, make time this holiday to do it.

Try something different.

Thinking back on memories of the past is a great way to honor your loved one. Yet there are also times that nostalgia can keep you from connecting with the people who are in your life right now. To avoid staying “stuck” in the past, plan to do something different and new this Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s visiting a friend you haven’t seen in years or exploring a park you’ve never been to in Ohio, do your best to open up to the experience.

Any complicated emotions brought on by Valentine’s Day will likely continue after the holiday has ended. Remember that there is no timeline when it comes to getting over a loss and that everyone copes with grief in their own way. If you find you need extra support, contact our compassionate staff. We will be happy to connect you to our grief support resources , professional counselors, or a partner loss group in Ohio.

4 Reasons to Choose a Family-Owned Funeral Home

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT

One of the questions we’re often asked here at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory is whether there’s any noticeable difference between a family-owned funeral home and a funeral home that is part of a corporate-owned chain. Our answer is always a resounding, “Yes!”

Since 1933 our family has been committed to serving our neighbors in Northwest Ohio – and our experience speaks for itself. Our lives are built around this community, and when you come to us with your funeral and cremation needs, you’ll quickly notice what sets us apart from large, public corporations. Here are several ways our team shows just how much we care:

Our personal touch. Since Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory opened in 1933, our reputation has been built on quality, sincerity, and trust. We work hard every day to fulfill the needs and wishes of every family we serve, regardless of profits or the bottom line. This means each person who comes to us is treated with care and compassion. To us, you’re not just a number. We see you as a neighbor and a valued part of our community, and we will accommodate you however we can.

Our customized services. We are laser focused on giving families an outstanding experience and providing excellent services. Whether you’re preplanning your own arrangements, honoring the life of a loved one, looking to plan a military service, or saying goodbye to a beloved pet, we make every effort to understand your wants, needs, and priorities to ensure your wishes are followed. Our hands-on approach at Walker is all about you – not meetings quotas or increasing merchandise sales. We know our success depends on how we treat each family we serve.

Our knowledge of this community. When it comes to planning a funeral , you want the help of professionals who understand your culture, lifestyle, and values. Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory is owned by our family, and with that comes a unique and valuable range of experiences. Because of this, we take great pride in our work and the many ways we contribute to Northwest Ohio. We are passionate about doing our best to help our community in any way we can.

Our superior quality. We understand how stressful a loss can be, so we will provide you with the support you need. Family-owned funeral homes rely heavily on word-of-mouth recommendations to help build their reputation, including online reviews at sites like Yelp and Facebook, so we make sure every funeral is handled with care. Our name is all we have! Our experience in the funeral industry spans more than a century and through it all, we stand by these promises: We will never rush your planning process, nor do we cut corners. For us, the most rewarding part of what we do is helping people find healing after a loss. We want you to focus on what matters and leave the details to us.

If you need our assistance now with a burial or cremation or are considering making prearrangements , don’t hesitate to reach out to our kind and professional staff . We’re always here for you and ready to help – like a good neighbor should be.

Why Gratitude is Important for the New Year

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 05:00:00 GMT

It’s a new year, and we know many of our neighbors in Northwest Ohio are thinking about their New Year’s resolutions. This is the time for not only a refresh, but it’s also a chance to consciously do something different in the coming year.

Our New Year’s resolution here at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory ? Focus on gratitude.

We know the idea of gratitude may be difficult if you’ve recently suffered a loss. You might be thinking, “I just lost my dad. Why should I be grateful?” or “Life will never be the same without Mom.” It’s easy to lose hope and reflect on how difficult this past year has been, but starting the new year with a note on gratitude and a positive attitude will help you down the right path.

When you learn to appreciate what and who surrounds you, you’ll realize just how many blessings you truly have. What’s more is that it doesn’t take much to take a step in the right direction. A gratitude journal is a good place to start. Studies show that people who keep gratitude journals are happier, more optimistic, and even more likely to reach their goals. Every day, write down what you’re grateful for and who you appreciate in your life. This internal happiness will reveal itself in your actions toward others.

When you make gratitude a priority, it keeps life in perspective. Sure, some might say you’re looking at life through rose-colored glasses, but you’ll see the good in life if you search for it. Also remember that being thankful is a choice. Each day, do you want to focus on what you don’t have, or would you rather appreciate the people in your life and the opportunities you’ve been given? If you dwell on what’s missing, your life won’t ever be enough. Choosing to appreciate even the small things will help you move toward a happy and fulfilling life.

The feeling of hopelessness often comes easily in a world full of tragedy and grief. So as you consider your 2025 resolution, think about inserting gratitude into your life every day. You’ll realize there’s good all around you – you just have to look for it. If you’re struggling with a loss, reach out to our compassionate care team or use our aftercare resources on our website as a guide.

Supporting Grieving Friends and Family During the Holidays

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT

The holiday season is a special time of year for families throughout our community to gather with their loved ones. Our funeral home staff members love spending time with family and friends at social events and festive celebrations in our area. Throughout the year, we help families cope with grief in a variety of ways and notice grief can be particularly challenging during the holiday season. Knowing how to show up for grieving friends and family isn’t always easy or straightforward. Consider taking action to support those you love who are grieving the death of a loved one.

Send them an invite to holiday gatherings.

For many families, the holidays are a time of social events and get-togethers. When you’re grieving an intense loss, however, you might not feel up to attending holiday gatherings. Being around a lot of people can be stressful and strangely enhance feelings of isolation and loneliness. If you’re hosting a small- to medium-sized holiday party, send an invite to your friend or family member who is grieving. Even if they don’t decide to attend, they’ll likely appreciate the invite. Do your best not to take a “no” from someone who is grieving personally—they may simply feel too tired to take part in a social activity.

Be flexible with plan making.

Just as a grieving friend or family member may turn down an invite, they may also make last-minute changes to plans to see you. Maybe you invite them out for coffee periodically, only to have them back out the day of your arranged meeting. Do your best to accommodate their schedule and comfort level. For example, offer to bring the coffee to their house or a nearby park.

Pitch in with holiday decorating.

Putting up holiday decorations, whether it’s indoors or out, often requires a lot of physical effort. Ask your grieving family member or friend if they need help decorating the inside of their house or front yard. If they say yes, you’ll not only support your loved one but also get to spend some quality time together.

Talk about their loved one.

You may think your grieving friend or family member doesn’t wish to talk about their loved one. Speaking their loved one’s name or sharing your favorite memories of them can help your friend or family member feel closer to their loved one. You may even feel more connected in your relationship with your friend or family member as a result.

This holiday season, contact our compassionate staff to access grief support resources and learn more about coping with grief. We are available 24/7 to help families in our community navigate the grief journey.

5 Ways to Tell a Story Through a Funeral Reception

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Storytelling has been around since the beginning of time. Stories define us, connect us, and help us heal. That’s why our caring team at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory finds it so important to help families tell stories about their loved ones in ways that are personal and meaningful. Stories told during funerals, visitations, and even funeral receptions encourage loved ones to revisit memories, focus on a life well lived, and ultimately, say goodbye.

We always say every person is unique and needs to be celebrated. Here, we’ve outlined five creative ways to share a life story during a funeral reception. While there are many reasons to have a reception, one of them is to take one more opportunity to paint a picture of your loved one’s life. Our hope is that these ideas and options will help families convey the character and personality of their loved one in a way that provides comfort and hope.

Explore photo collage ideas . Looking through old photo albums is incredibly cathartic, as is compiling and presenting a visual element to help tell the story of a person’s life. Photos can be displayed on a poster, photo slideshow, or video. Our compassionate staff will help families choose the format that will work best for them.

Express love through food. Every person has favorite foods, so why not share these at the reception – either before or after the funeral service or visitation? We will prepare a beloved dish, or you can provide your own. Think of enjoying Grandma’s delicious chocolate cake or the casserole your uncle made for every get-together. In the words of famed chef Julia Child, “It’s fun to get together and have something good to eat at least once a day.” And when you choose Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory, we will handle all the details so you don’t have to.

Create a fun display of treasured keepsakes. Families find solace in reminiscing about a loved one’s passions, interests, and hobbies. Looking at favorite books, knick-knacks, or other treasured possessions often brings to mind stories, prompting the words, “Remember when . . .”

Ask guests to share a favorite memory. While many funerals include a book where guests can write their names, you might consider taking it a step further by providing a space to jot down a story, memory, or condolence. Or you can set aside a time during the reception when people stand and share some of those stories with everyone. This encourages people to be more involved in the funeral and offers family the opportunity to hear and read – and hold onto – these personalized tributes.

Distribute a keepsake item. Giving a small gift to loved ones attending the funeral reception is another way to keep memories alive. Was gardening a favorite hobby? Hand out packets of seeds. Did the person who died favor a particular song or recipe or poem? Distribute a copy to each guest. Our team will help you think of all the possibilities that can act as lasting reminders of your loved one’s life.

If you would like help telling your loved one’s story through a funeral reception or if you’ve been thinking of preplanning your own arrangements with us, reach out today. We are here for you.

Empowering Those at the End of Their Lives Through Preplanning

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT

People can be a little unsettled by a discussion about death, but it’s so important that end-of-life discussions happen within all Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory families, as well as between a family or individual and a trusted funeral home.

From our experience at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , making prearrangements can be particularly beneficial, mentally and emotionally for those facing a terminal illness or those who are nearing the end of life naturally.

If that describes you or you simply wish to plan for the future, here are four ways preplanning can help you process the idea of death and even find comfort in the midst of such a difficult time:

1.) A chance to reflect

At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , we believe every person is unique, and their funeral service should reflect that. As a result, we offer several ways families and individuals can express their personalities through personalization . Balloon releases or memory tables are just a couple of the options.

Look through your closets and drawers – what are some of your favorite things? Your fishing pole? A book or Bible? Maybe it’s the afghan your grandmother knitted for you or your first rocking chair. We can incorporate all these special items into your farewell.

2.) A chance to say goodbye

When you think about it, funeral services are more for the living than for the loved one who has died. A funeral can bring a tremendous amount of peace.

We’re all used to hearing loved ones eulogize the person who has been lost. But wouldn’t it be special if you were able to write letters, or even record video messages, for friends and family that could be read, or played, at your own service? Preplanning gives you the power to do that.

3.) A chance for one last gift of love

At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , we have heard time and again from families about how much it meant to them that their parent or grandparent preplanned their funeral . It removes a tremendous amount of pressure when arrangements are already in place when a death occurs. Your family is then free to focus on remembering you and figuring out what life looks like now that you’re gone. This can also minimize disputes between family members.

Meaningful Ways to Honor a Veteran

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Throughout our many years of serving Northwest Ohio families, our staff at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory agree that there is no greater honor than caring for veterans and their families. For us, it’s one way to say thank you to those brave men and women who give so much to protect our American ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. Our servicemen and women magnify the courage and national pride that set the United States apart – and we recognize the sacrifices they and their families make along the way.

As Veterans Day approaches, we pay tribute to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. There is no way we can adequately express our appreciation for what these citizens have done and continue to do for us. For their willingness to serve and devote themselves so wholeheartedly to making our country and our world a safer place to live.

Our hearts also go out to veterans and their families, and we hope our appreciation is evident through the many ways we remember veterans in life – and in death. At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory, this includes the following.

Standard honor military funerals can include:

● A U.S. Flag to drape over the casket

● The flag to be folded following the service and presented to the family

● The playing of Taps by a lone bugler or an audio recording.

Full honor military funerals include all standard honors in addition to the following:

● A 3-volley gun salute from military rifles.

● Military pallbearers to carry the casket

Other Veteran Benefits

In addition to coordinating honors related to the service itself, we can help you communicate with the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to arrange for:

● A Presidential Memorial Certificate. This is a certificate expressing the nation's recognition of the veteran's service. The veteran's name is inscribed, and the certificate bears the signature of the president. Certificates are issued in the name of honorably discharged, deceased veterans. Contact us for assistance in applying for a Presidential Memorial Certificate, and we would be happy to guide you through the process.

● Headstones or Markers. The VA provides headstones and markers for the graves of veterans anywhere in the world and for eligible dependents of veterans buried in national and state veteran or military cemeteries.

● Memorial Plots. If an eligible veteran's remains are not available for burial, the VA will provide a plot and headstone or marker in a national cemetery for memorialization. If you wish to place the memorial in a cemetery other than a national cemetery, the VA will provide the headstone or marker but not the plot itself.

● Burial in a VA National Cemetery. This includes the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, a grave box, and perpetual care.

● Reimbursement of Burial Expenses. For information on eligibility and the different levels of potential reimbursement, please review their Guide to VA Burial Allowances.

We’ve been helping families honor their veterans since we opened our doors in 1933. Over the years, we have made many cherished memories – and hope the families we serve can say the same. Moments like soldiers presenting the folded American flag to a grieving family. Displaying a uniform at the visitation and showing photos from military days during the funeral service. Or setting up a memory table at the reception that features awards, honors, or other items from their time in the service.

When it’s time to pay tribute to the veteran in your life, or if you are a veteran and would like to put your funeral plans in place ahead of time, reach out to our caring team by phone or stop by in person. We can help you move through all these steps and find out exactly what benefits you deserve. We work with these wonderful families often and know the process well. For more information, contact us at any time.

The Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory Difference

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Our people are behind everything we do here at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory . When you walk through the doors of our Northwest Ohio funeral homes, you’ll feel the difference. At each of our locations, we treat your family like our own. As a family-owned funeral home, we know how important it is to feel safe and supported by your funeral service provider. We want every family we serve to feel welcome the first time they meet with one of our funeral professionals.

Here are a few of the things that set our staff apart and really make a difference in our high-quality care.

We have a long history of personal, compassionate service.

Since 1933 our talented staff members have brought excellent service to every family who trusts us with the care of their loved one. We pride ourselves on our special history of service to our local community. We understand that each family has singular needs and preferences, not to mention a particular budget in mind for a loved one’s funeral or memorial service. Our staff members meet every family where they are. When you stop by our funeral home, we promise to listen to all your questions and concerns with patience and understanding. We know how difficult it is to plan a funeral for a loved one.

Our staff is deeply involved in the community.

Our dedication to service extends beyond the families we serve to the wider community of Northwest Ohio. Many of our team members participate in local interest groups, churches, and hospices. Some even hold leadership roles within these organizations. We are proud to serve our community in this way and are always learning from families and individuals from different walks of life.

We bring a personal touch to everything we do.

It’s common for families to request personalized services with us, whether it’s a funeral, burial, or cremation. These personalization options are available to every family, as we consider them an important part of planning a meaningful tribute to a loved one. We recognize that every person is unique and are honored to help you celebrate this uniqueness in whatever way we can, whether it’s a video tribute or candle-lighting ceremony.

We are here for you 24/7.

Whether you’re looking to plan a funeral or a cremation, reach out to our experienced team today via phone at (419) 451-4586 or private message. We are here 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about preplanning your memorial service with us.

Why Should You Choose a Funeral Home with Its Own Crematory?

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 04:00:00 GMT

When we’re talking to a Northwest Ohio family about end-of-life arrangements for their loved one here at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , we’re always sure to mention that we own our own on-site crematory. Why is this an important part of the conversation?

There are many reasons, starting with the fact that having a private, on-site crematory allows us to manage and oversee every cremation. You and your family deserve peace of mind knowing your loved one never leaves our care.

There are far too many horrific stories in the media about families all across the country who have been devastated by the actions of an unethical or irresponsible cremation provider. You may have read accounts of the wrong person being cremated or the wrong remains being returned to a family. It’s hard to imagine the heartache and confusion this causes during an already difficult time. You need 100% confidence in your cremation provider – and Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory goes the extra mile to make sure you have that. When you trust us with either cremation or burial, your loved will be treated with the most dignity and respect.

Because we don’t use a third-party cremation provider, all of your questions and concerns are answered by our cremation specialists on our care team. When it comes to cremation, many funeral homes trust the “middleman.” But with us, you can have peace of mind knowing our licensed professionals perform every cremation in our own facility.

There are so many important reasons it’s crucial to select a funeral home with their own crematory , but the bottom line is this: When you choose Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , you can rest assured that your loved one will be well cared for.

When you’re ready to plan your own or a loved one’s arrangements, we’re here for you.

Personal Touches That Make Your Funeral Unforgettable

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT

At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , we realize that each of our neighbors in Northwest Ohio wants their loved one’s funeral to be an unforgettable experience. Adding personal touches to a funeral ensures your loved one’s celebration is both memorable and meaningful.

Highlight the five senses.

If a loved one had a favorite color, request that guests wear that in their honor. Many families also pay tribute by featuring a beloved flower or plant. Here at Walker, we have a variety of flower arrangements and bouquets as well as other special keepsakes available to help you personalize your funeral. You might consider including a recipe your loved one was known for. These kinds of details bring their memory to life in a special way.

Oftentimes, a tangible reminder of someone who has died helps facilitate the grieving and healing process. A keepsake gift doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. It can be as simple as a packet of seeds to plant your loved one’s favorite flower, a postcard featuring an image of their hometown, or recipe cards to make their favorite food items.

Release butterflies.

Releasing butterflies at a funeral service can encourage people to express and release emotions revolving around a death. The butterflies themselves symbolize sending a loved one’s spirit into the infinite. This can be a beautiful thing to incorporate into a funeral.

Create a quote board.

A DIY quote board is a unique way to incorporate personal aspects of your loved one into the service while involving your guests in an engaging activity. Ask them to contribute their favorite sayings or phrases your loved one liked to use. Have a pen or marker handy so they can add quotes to the board at the actual event. A quote board brings a personal, interactive element to a funeral or memorial service.

If you’d like to find out more about personalization and ways to make your loved one’s funeral here in Northwest Ohio special, contact our dedicated staff today. We are happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about planning a funeral and are here for you 24/7.

The Impact of Caregiving on Mental Health

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Caregiving involves a myriad of responsibilities, and being a full-time caregiver is one of the hardest jobs in the world. In addition to healthcare support, a caregiver often provides childcare, tutoring, and help with household chores like cooking and laundry. At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , our caring staff members understand the impact of caregiving on an individual’s mental health. We encourage caregivers throughout our area to prioritize self-care.

Higher Levels of Depression

Providing day-to-day care for an elderly or sick family member or patient requires mental resilience and emotional availability. Caring for individuals with health conditions like dementia can be especially stressful, as sometimes the individual functions less easily with each passing day. Experts estimate that between 40 and 70% of caregivers experience symptoms of depression. Taking a daily walk outside and socializing with family and friends can combat symptoms of depression.

Compassion Fatigue

You’ve probably heard the phrase “compassion fatigue.” Though seen most often in the medical community, compassion fatigue can affect home caregivers helping patients with limited mobility or declining health. Compassion fatigue can look like physical exhaustion, irritability, insomnia, and feelings of dread. To alleviate compassion fatigue as a caregiver, try to get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and exercise as often as you can.

Anxiety Disorders

Many caregivers worry about the health and well-being of the person they’re caring for. Your caregiving duties may include filing paperwork, booking medical appointments, and managing medications. Each of these requires mental focus and time commitments and may leave you feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities. You might experience crippling anxiety and stress over whether you’re doing enough as a caregiver. Breath practices, meditation, and yoga can all help ease the effects of anxiety.

Substance Abuse or Dependence

Caregivers are especially susceptible to substance dependence or abuse, as they can often feel socially isolated and lonely. Watching someone’s health decline as you care for them can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and guilt. As a result, some caregivers turn to alcohol and drugs to cope with the mental health challenges of the role. If you struggle with substance abuse, be honest with yourself about your addiction and consider behavioral counseling with a professional as a first step.

With all the mental health impacts considered, caregiving is no easy task. We encourage our neighbors in Northwest Ohio to take the time to support the caregivers in their lives however they can, whether it’s dropping off a meal, taking them out for coffee, or helping with daily caregiving tasks. Our dedicated staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about funerals and grief support .

3 Reasons to Choose Your Own Final Resting Place

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:00:00 GMT

At Walker Funeral Homes &Crematory , we’ve talked to many people who have said this: “When I witnessed my loved one’s burial, I couldn’t help but think of where I would like to be laid to rest. How do I go about making that decision?”

We thought it would be helpful to offer guidance since we know how significant this is for you and generations of your loved ones. We’ve compiled information to get you started.

Choosing your final resting place is deeply personal.

This question is important: Have you thought about whether you would prefer traditional burial or cremation? How about in-ground with a traditional headstone, a lawn-level marker, or perhaps a bench, a plaque, or an art piece? There are also those looking for an “eco-friendly” cremation or burial option.

Many families want to visit their loved ones after they die, which can impact the location and specifics of a final resting place. If you can think of it, we can help you do it, whether you prefer above-ground or in-ground, cremation or a casket, or even both in one space.

There are many options.

We regularly work with all of the local cemeteries, and whether you’ve chosen traditional burial or cremation, our professional and caring staff will do everything we can do to help you select the perfect final resting place.

You don’t want your family to have to guess what you would have wanted.

Too often, we meet with families who have lost someone important to them and want to make sure they make the right decisions on their loved one’s behalf. But when it comes to selecting the final resting place, are not sure where their loved one would have liked to be buried. They have to decide among themselves, and as you can imagine, this doesn’t always go smoothly.

This is why it’s extremely important to make this decision for yourself. After all, you want to be in control rather than leaving your family to decide on your behalf.

You might be wondering where to start when it comes to exploring all we have to offer. You’re not alone – and that’s why we are here to help you every step of the way.

You want your choice of a final resting place to bring you peace of mind. Count on us to help you carry out your wishes.

Unique Ways We Support Families After a Loss

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 04:00:00 GMT

“A family is a little world created by love.” – Unknown

This quote perfectly sums up the way we feel about our family atmosphere at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory . Since we opened our doors in 1933, we’ve remained a family-operated funeral home in every sense of the word as we serve our neighbors of Northwest Ohio. Every caring staff member adheres to our guiding principles of honesty, authenticity, and fairness. Keith, CEO and Licensed Funeral Director of Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , is dedicated to creating meaningful memorial events that reflect the unique lives of loved ones who have died. Families trust us to arrange every detail of their loved one’s funeral, burial, or cremation. We listen and we care, and our decades of professional experience help us highlight each person’s unique personality at the funeral – and help you on the road to healing.

Our family takes this support role very seriously, as we understand firsthand how stressful, sad, and challenging it is to lose a loved one. There are many ways we come alongside the families we serve, and we’ve highlighted a few of them here:

Support for Our Community

We are proud to call Northwest Ohio home, and that pride is evident both inside and outside our funeral homes. We take part in many area events and are devoted members of various organizations. Our community is important to us, and as your neighbors and friends, we hope you trust our family to take care of yours.

Personalized Service Elements

Honoring your loved one’s passions, hobbies, and accomplishments can initiate a special kind of healing for your family. Our experienced staff members can help you craft a one-of-a-kind service celebrating your loved one’s life and legacy. From a butterfly release to live music to a candlelight ceremony, the personalization options are virtually endless.

Resources to Help You Heal

We understand firsthand the challenges and pain of losing a loved one. That’s why our grief services are so important to us. The weeks and months after the funeral are often the hardest. We can make referrals to support groups and grief counselors and hold a special memorial service at holiday time in honor of those who have died. Let us support you when you need it most. From the moment you contact us, our Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory family provides full care and attention so you can focus on what matters most in life: your own family. Reach out to us anytime with questions or to learn more about the support we offer.

The Benefits Of Building A Bucket List

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT

When people hear the words “bucket list” they might first think of the 2007 film starring Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicolson. Some people might also associate a bucket list with death or people of a certain age. Putting together a bucket list can be helpful at any age. Our dedicated staff at Walker Funeral Home encourages our neighbors throughout Northwest Ohio to take the time to write out a bucket list.

Here are some of the benefits of building your own:

Dreaming bigger

A bucket list is a great way to organize your life goals and get them down on paper. It can also help you dream bigger and get out of your comfort zone. When you start making a bucket list, try not to censor yourself and write down everything that comes to mind, however silly or unachievable it may seem. Ride in a hot air balloon? Retire in the Caribbean? Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro? Write it down! There are no rules to building a bucket list.

Tapping into your inner creativity

Composing a bucket list requires introspection and creativity. We recommend sitting in a quiet place where you can think about the things you’d still love to do in life. Try to personalize your list and be as specific as possible. Later, if you’re feeling extra motivated, you could prioritize the items on your list in order of importance or how soon you might be able to achieve them.

Feeling a sense of accomplishment

Do your best to pepper your bucket list with both long- and short-term things. This will give you a sense of accomplishment when you’re able to cross one or two off the list. Perhaps preplanning a funeral is a simple thing you’ve been meaning to do for some time. Whatever you’ve written down, see if you can get one or two things done and notice the pride that you feel afterward.

Connecting with loved ones

Almost everything is better shared. Showing your bucket list to your spouse or family members is a great way to connect with those you love. Perhaps a sibling or spouse will even want to do one or two of the things on your list with you.

We encourage all our Ohio neighbors to build their own bucket lists. Feel free to contact our friendly staff with any questions you may have about planning a funeral or making end-of-life arrangements.

5 Ways Funerals Are Changing

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT

“A traditional funeral doesn’t fit who I am. Can I plan a final farewell that’s more ‘me’?”

“I want to care for the earth in death just as I do in life. What are my options for a green burial?”

“I’d love for my friends and family to have a big party after my funeral. How can I make this happen?”

We meet with Northwest Ohio families every day at Walker Funeral homes and Crematory to design end-of-life tributes, and we’ve seen how requests and plans have evolved over the years. One of the biggest shifts has been the number of people who choose cremation over traditional burial. Another has been the increase in flexibility and creativity, with less of an attachment to tradition. Ohioans feel less bound by doing things a “certain way” simply because that’s the way it’s always been done.

What else has our Walker staff noticed over the years? Read on to find out.

1. More people want natural burial or cremation options. While these options still treat those who have died in a way that is dignified, almost equal importance is placed on making the smallest impact on the environment as possible through the conservation of natural resources and the use of environmentally-friendly materials.

2. More people want their loved ones to have a reception after the funeral. That’s why we offer a full reception area to families complete with food and alcohol, allowing them to gather together without having to worry about booking a crowded restaurant or cooking for a crowd. We know the last thing a grieving family needs is one more decision to make or event to arrange. We wanted to be able to handle every detail from beginning to end, and having our own catering facilities allows us to do that.

3. More people want personal details included in their funeral. Weaving unique interests, passions, and accolades into the service brings a special measure of healing. One of the best ways to personalize a visitation or service is to display photographs, memorabilia, or service or military awards. Selecting certain music choices can make the service even more meaningful.

4. More people want to incorporate technology. From video tributes to livestreaming a funeral to online obituaries, friends and family have more ways to honor their loved one from near and far. With our online obituaries, loved ones can leave a message for the family, purchase flowers or gifts, and even make a memorial donation to a charity of choice.

5. More people are putting their own end-of-life preferences in writing. Preplanning not only enables a person to take control of their own tribute, but also prevents their family from having to make many decisions during a difficult time. Planning ahead is a smart investment, as it’s common for loved ones to overspend while under duress. Also, you don’t have to think about your family planning a funeral that is not exactly what you want.

When it comes to a funeral, the most important thing is that your wishes are honored. No matter your preferences, we’re here to make them a reality. Reach out to us today, or you can begin the planning process online. We’re always here for you if you have questions.

4 Reasons Why Now is The Best Time to Preplan

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT

With fluctuating prices and unsettling events happening around the world at every turn, much of the future is uncertain. Preplanning your funeral is a way to take control of your future even amidst all of life’s unpredictability. Here at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory, we encourage our neighbors in Port Clinton , Rossford , Genoa , Toledo/Sylvania Township , Maumee , Oak Harbor , Holland, Oregon , Walbridge, and Perrysburg to plan their funerals ahead of time, and there is no better time than now.

Preplanning helps put your mind at ease.

When you preplan with Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , you can get your detailed wishes down in writing. This can relieve any stress you may feel about leaving these important decisions up to your children or loved ones. You’ll likely experience peace of mind knowing all the critical details have been thoughtfully considered and noted by our experienced staff members .

You’ll save your family the stress of planning your funeral.

Planning a loved one’s funeral is a detailed and often difficult undertaking, especially if you’re not entirely sure what type of funeral they’d prefer. Preplanning eliminates any guesswork from your funeral arrangements. You can feel confident your service will be carried out just the way you envision, from the flowers decorating the reception space to the location of the burial plot.

Preplanning lets you determine a budget ahead of time.

It’s common for families to overspend on their loved one’s funeral, as they’re likely confronted with intense feelings of grief. Making funeral arrangements in advance gives you the time to carefully consider your budget and the type of service you can afford. Preplanning helps you avoid this, as you can decide exactly how much you’d like to spend on your service. You’ll know just how much your funeral will cost, and with us, you even have the option to prepay for your funeral, which saves your family the trouble of doing so later.

Your prearrangements will be safe and secure.

When you preplan with us, we’ll keep your file here in a safe place, so your wishes will be available when they’re needed. In the event of a move, your arrangements will travel with you, and we’ll transfer your file to the funeral home of your choice. Should you have the need, you can also make changes to your service details whenever you like.

There are many advantages to organizing your final wishes ahead of time. To learn more about preplanning, we encourage families to take a look at our preplanning checklist to get a better idea of all the things they’ll need prior to making prearrangements. Contact us with any questions you have about preplanning your funeral or cremation with us.

A Letter to Grieving Mothers

Tue, 07 May 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Dear grieving mothers,

It’s not supposed to be this way. This is not the life you dreamed of, hoped for, or expected. Parents aren’t supposed to bury their children; parents are supposed to die first. That’s the natural order of things.

What you’ve experienced is unnatural. It feels wrong because it is wrong. When you welcomed your child, you had no idea of your capacity for love. You’d read about motherhood and heard stories about it. Maybe experienced a bond with your own mother. But that’s no comparison to what you felt the moment you laid eyes on your child.

And then you have to say goodbye long before you’re ready. You learned about your capacity for pain. Suffocating. Soul crushing. Words are empty compared to the weight of it all. Nothing will ever be the same again. Nothing.

You will always, always carry your loss with you. Others may not see it or know about it, yet it’s there trailing you like a shadow. Grief can obliterate a person. It can turn hair gray. It can turn your world gray. But there are other things grief can do.

Grief can birth compassion. When you see death right in front of you, your wells of understanding deepen. Grief can reveal the best in humanity. Some say the wrong thing. Some are so fearful of saying the wrong thing that they say nothing. But there are others. They sit with you. They make sure you eat. They fold your towels, wash your sheets, and shovel your sidewalk. They show up.

Grief can show strength. There are moments you feel you, too, might die; you might burst from anger and pain. There are moments you wonder if you will ever know happiness. If you will ever emerge from the fog.

But hear this: You will breathe again. You will ache a little less. You will go to bed one night and notice that you felt a bit like yourself that day – even just for a few minutes. You will never forget. You will never fully move on. But you will heal in small ways. This is the strength of a mother.

Dear, grieving mothers. Remember this: You are not alone. There is hope.

With love and understanding,

The Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory Care Team

*If you need support following a loss, you can lean on us. With years of experience caring for families, our Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory staff knows the best specialists, resources, and support groups Northwest Ohio has to offer. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Q&A - What Are My Options for Final Disposition

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT

One of the most important decisions you will make when it comes time to plan a funeral for someone you love, or for yourself when preplanning, is choosing a final resting place – or final disposition option. There are many preferences, cultural elements, and religious requirements that can go into such a decision, and the team at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory can help you determine your options. To help you get started, here is a Q&A guide to walk you through some of the most common choices available.

Q. How do I choose among the many kinds of caskets available?

A. That decision is highly personal and may be determined by preference and/or by budget. A variety of woods and metals are used in the construction of caskets, and the choice of styles is practically limitless. Our funeral professionals can guide you through the many selections available.

Q. If I choose cremation, is a casket required?

A. That depends upon your wishes. Even when you choose cremation, you can still have a traditional viewing prior to cremation, and you would need a casket for that purpose. If you choose to not have a viewing, then a casket is not required.

Q. What is a burial vault or grave liner?

A. These are both containers into which the casket is placed. A burial vault is made of very sturdy materials – concrete, steel, copper, bronze, or fiberglass, for example. A grave liner is also very sturdy but is a more lightweight version of a burial vault. The purpose of each is to keep the grave surface from sinking.

Q. What are alternatives to grave burial?

A. A casket, or cremated remains in an urn, may be placed in a building called a mausoleum. Most mausoleums are large and provide crypts to hold casketed remains and niches to hold cremated remains in an urn. Both crypts and niches are sealed once the remains are placed inside. Urns are sometimes placed in a columbarium, which may be located in a mausoleum or chapel. A columbarium is composed of several small compartments designed especially to hold urns. We invite you to come to our selection room to see the options you have at Walker.

Q. Are there other alternatives available to cremated remains?

A. Yes. Some people keep the remains in their home, in a special urn. Many cemeteries provide designated scattering gardens for ashes. If permitted by local regulations, you may scatter remains in a place that is meaningful to you – at sea, for example.

While your memorial options are many and vary, the team at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory knows there is one that is perfect for you or your loved one. Contact us today, and we will help you discover which one it is.

Obituaries: Why They Matter

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Do you or someone you know read the obituary section of the paper every day? Some may find it a morbid practice, but in truth, the obituary is simply another means whereby we honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, and allow their memory to live on.

When losing a loved one there are so many things that need to be accomplished in a short period of time: notification of immediate family and friends that were important in their life, taking care of any legalities left behind in the estate, and choosing the right type of service(s). With all of these issues, memorializing your loved one in writing can sometimes get overlooked, but it’s an important step that should not be forgotten.

At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory , our funeral directors are trained and prepared to help you manage this task. They will help you find just the right words to say. An obituary can, and should, reflect the personality of your loved one; it doesn’t have to be dry or purely informational. The words chosen can reflect the personality of your family member and allow those who may not have known them well to see a more personal side if you so choose. There might have been hobbies and or collections that could be mentioned, even a favorite restaurant that was frequented. When putting an obituary together, you want to recall key points of the person’s life, family members survived by the deceased, and any major accomplishments, like military service or other achievements (such as working at the same company for 30 years). Whatever parts of your loved one’s life you decide to highlight, make sure they reflect the kind of person he or she was so the information can be passed on for years to come.

Years to come? Isn’t an obituary for right now?

Yes, and yes. The obituary provides pertinent information for the current day—the notification of passing, the visitation and service times, and the service location. But, beyond that, when an obituary is published, it becomes a permanent matter of public record that has helped countless families over the years piece together their family lineage and genealogy. As a matter of fact, in many cases, the obituary is the only record of a person’s existence that remains centuries later, and it is one that can be easily accessed.

We not only recommend getting obituary notices in the local papers, but as a courtesy to the families we serve, we also put them on our website (absolutely free of charge) for the convenience of your friends and family. Our online obituary listing even provides an opportunity for others to write their own memorial to share with your family. These notices are permanently stored on our website and will not be removed.

Writing an obituary may be the last thing you want to do when you’re in mourning, but it’s a chance to immortalize the one you lost. As we all know, no one lives forever—but with a good obituary, a part of them can.

5 Signature Service Offerings That Set Us Apart

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Here at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory, our staff often asks the question, “What else can we do to help families during the most difficult times of their lives?” For us, walking alongside our neighbors in Ohio is a privilege we never take for granted. Since we opened the doors of our first location back in 1933, we’ve done everything possible to provide the best funeral experience for those we serve. We want families to know they can trust us implicitly and that we offer the most service options in the area.

From planning a visitation and funeral to selecting cremation or burial, we explain every offering in a way you’ll understand even in the midst of grief. We also offer ways to add a personal touch to a final farewell. At most funeral homes, these services are considered extras, but we believe so strongly in what we do here that we consider them the basics. That is why we offer these selections – and more – to every family we serve.

Celebrant Services

Our Celebrants are trained Life Tribute professionals. They will meet with you to learn about your loved one’s stories, memories, and interests. Together you and your Celebrant will create a beautiful celebration of life.

Private Crematory

Most funeral homes offer cremation services and then outsource the actual cremation to a large industrial crematory that cremates thousands of bodies each year and operates like a cremation assembly line. At Walker, we have our own private, state-of-the-art crematory and control every step of the process. Your loved one never leaves our care, and you will never have to question whether you’ve received the correct cremated remains.

Beautiful Facilities

We now have ten funeral homes available to serve local families. The facilities range from beautiful, Victorian-era buildings to contemporary funeral homes with the latest technology and comfortable gathering spaces. We continuously update our facilities to provide a welcoming experience for the families we serve.

Community Connections

Families often choose Walker because they’ve met one of the Walker team members out in the community. That happens because we make it a priority to be active in every community we serve. So, whether it’s sponsoring a high school talent show, putting on a special event for local veterans, or bringing snacks to hospice nurses, you will find Walker team members everywhere in your commu

nity.

Walker Family Promises

We make seven promises to the families we serve. The Walker Family Promises reflect who we are and how we will help your family.

Whether you’ve just started to research end-of-life decisions or you’re thinking about putting your own funeral plans in place, we encourage you to check out our planning checklist as a way to create your unique funeral arrangements. If a death has just occurred, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. We are honored to help you however we can.

3 Ways to Capture a Lifetime of Memories in One Service

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT

When a loved one dies, is it truly possible to convey all that made them so special during their funeral service? Our answer at Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory is an emphatic “yes” – and we’ve had more than eight decades of experience helping our neighbors in Ohio do exactly that.

The best way to commemorate – and celebrate – a beloved friend or family member is by adding unique, personal details to their funeral, visitation, and burial. And at Walker, the options for personalization are nearly endless. As you think about planning your own arrangements, or as you turn to us for help in organizing a funeral for a loved one, consider these ideas that help capture a person’s essence, while creating memories to last a lifetime.

Create a tribute video

Photos bring people back to specific moments in time. This is why editing together favorite photos from a person’s life is so meaningful; it helps you feel a little closer to the one you’ve lost. Our staff can create a tribute video to be shown during the visitation or service, or as a private remembrance for your family. We can also link the video from your loved one’s online obituary, so others can see it or share it on social media.

Set up a display table

The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating your loved one’s unique interests, passions, and accolades. Did your friend or family member have a cherished collection they enjoyed adding to over the years? Set it up alongside other favorite personal items. If a loved one was a fan of books or recipes, create a feel of a cozy library by setting out their beloved books and/or recipe cards. Or think of how beautiful a presentation of favorite flowers or plants could look, complete with seeds for a favorite flower given out as take-home gifts.

Have Live Music

Live music is a powerful way to honor your loved one and acknowledge their life and legacy. Adding special songs or musical performances that had personal meaning for the one who has passed can make a funeral service much more individualized and meaningful for loved ones. Hearing that favorite upbeat song or meaningful ballad can transport one back through nostalgic memories, sparking reflection, tears, and even laughter.

No matter how you’d like to pay tribute, we’re here to walk with you through every step. It’s what we do best. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us when the time comes.

How Grief Rituals Help on Valentine’s Day

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Since the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day has been defined as a day specifically for love and affection. At Walker Funeral Homes & Crematory, we hear from families in Ohio who say it’s a tough holiday to face when you’ve recently lost someone. For some, this is the first Valentine’s Day that their love is no longer around. Others may look back longingly at how life used to be and have trouble facing their new reality.

Those who are mired in grief might try to avoid all things Valentine’s Day, but it’s nearly impossible when grocery store aisles are filled with candy hearts, flowers, and teddy bears. As difficult as it is, know the team at Walker is here for support and guidance along your grief journey. This year reframe Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to commemorate and remember your loved one. We’ve compiled a list of grief rituals to help.

Write how you feel

Your words can be in the form of an article, poem, song, or eulogy. Whatever helps you process your thoughts and feelings. Of course, you can make your piece public, but if you choose to keep it private, write in a journal to collect your thoughts as you move through grief.

Write a letter

Jot down what you’d want to tell your beloved, tie it to an eco-friendly balloon, and set it free. If you have bad memories or are harboring negative thoughts, let this symbolize letting go and saying goodbye.

Create a scrapbook or memory box

Ask relatives and friends if they have trinkets, photos, or mementos of your loved one that they’re willing to part with. Create a scrapbook with the photos or decorate a special box to store the contents that will remind you of your loved one.

Do their favorite activities

If your loved one was an avid hiker, use the holiday to hike their favorite trail. Other options include eating their favorite foods, watching their favorite movies, or taking part in any family traditions you enjoyed together over the years. This will help you feel close to your love and bring back memories of time spent having fun together.

Donate a grief book

Buy a book that specifically talks about grief or buy favorite children’s books and find a place to donate them. To make it even more special, write a message inside and dedicate the book in memory of your loved one.

Allow yourself memories of your loved one

Regardless of what you’re doing in a day, certain memories are going to inevitably arise in your head. Don’t ignore them, as these memories are part of healing.

If you choose to embrace the holiday, Valentine’s Day won’t be a burden. Instead, you can commemorate your loved one and celebrate your love for them rather than with them. This year find a way to honor those you’ve lost, and you’ll realize death doesn’t end a relationship – those bonds are forever.

Remember to contact us should you have questions or need grief guidance. We’re here for you 24/7.

10 Ways to Customize a Funeral

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Funerals aren’t one-size-fits-all. One of the most important steps in funeral planning is customization. How is this funeral right for your loved one? How are you celebrating your loved one’s life through everything from the floral arrangements to the clothing they’re wearing? What makes this funeral uniquely your loved one’s funeral? Here are a few ways to customize a funeral for your loved one.

10 Ways to Customize a Loved One’s Funeral

1. Put together a community project.

When you’re thinking about how you can honor your loved one in their funeral, consider that you don’t have to do it alone. A community project to display at the funeral brings people together. Try to think of a project that fits something that your loved one enjoyed in their life. Maybe they were always in the kitchen, baking their favorite recipes. You could ask funeral-goers to contribute recipes that the decedent shared with them throughout their life for a recipe book. Or, if they loved to sew or crochet, you could make a memorial quilt, with everyone contributing their own granny square that they feel symbolizes the decedent.

2. Incorporate beloved items into a display.

Funeral flowers are a lovely way to honor a loved one, but consider taking the arrangements a step further and incorporating items that remind you of your loved one into the displays. If your loved one’s favorite thing to do was to be out on their surfboard, catching waves, build a floral display around the board. Or you could create a separate display outside of the floral arrangements. If your loved one received honors for their service in the military, for instance, you could build a section of the funeral where their metals could sit amongst photos of their time serving.

3. Have something for guests to take home.

The idea of funeral favors isn’t all that common, but it’s a way to have your guests bring something that reminds them of their loved one home. You could put together seed packets from your loved one’s garden if they were known for their green thumb. Or, if they were known for making the best jams and jellies around, use their recipe to make some small containers to give out at the funeral.

4. Make a memorial slideshow.

A memorial slideshow can be shown during the funeral, but it can also be put on loop to be projected throughout a viewing or reception. No matter how you choose to show your slideshow, it’ll be an homage to the life that your loved one lived. Ask family and friends to send you their favorite photos of your loved one, or ask them to put them all in a Google Drive folder to make collecting them a little easier. You could use slideshow services like Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides or a service that’s directly made for memorial slideshows, like Smilebox’s memorial slideshow maker .

5. Choose meaningful clothing.

It used to be more common that a decedent would be dressed in semi-formal clothing, but that tradition has been receding. Now, it’s considered less necessary to have a decedent dress more formally, and it’s more common for them to be dressed in a way that reminds funeral-goers of who they were. When you pick out clothing for your loved one, look for outfits that you have special memories of them in. If your loved one always wore their favorite colorful dress to every occasion, perhaps they should also wear it for their funeral. But even then, you don’t have to pick out clothing that they wore only to formal events. If your loved one loved their blue jeans, there’s no rule that says that they can’t wear them for the funeral.

6. Arrange for military honors, if applicable.

If your loved one was a veteran, you could plan to hold military honors at their funeral with the help of your funeral director. All honorably discharged veterans are entitled to military honors. By law, that includes an honor guard detail consisting of at least two members of the U.S. Armed Forces, one of whom must be from the decedent’s service branch. The ceremony includes the playing of taps and the folding and presentation of the American flag to the decedent’s next of kin.

7. Dine on their favorite foods and recipes.

Food has the power to bring back so many memories. To incorporate food into a funeral, you could plan a reception with all of their favorite meals. Another way to make food a part of the funeral is by baking a few of your loved one’s most beloved recipes and putting them out during the service. Pick recipes that are easy to eat and not too messy, like a cookie.

8. Organize a scattering ceremony at a special location.

A funeral ceremony isn’t the only event that you can plan for your loved one. You could also host a number of additional events, including a scattering ceremony if your loved one is to be cremated. A scattering ceremony is often very personal because you’re deciding where to spread their ashes based on what they loved in life. Although you can’t scatter ashes just anywhere, you can spread them in certain places like at sea or in a national park. Just make sure that you’re following all local, state, and federal restrictions.

9. Print photos for a display or scrapbook.

Sharing photos of your loved one adds to the celebration of your loved one’s life. There are many ways to make pictures a part of the funeral beyond the memorial slideshow. You could print poster boards of your loved one to greet guests at the entrance. Or you could make a collage to add to other displays around the room. Many funeral homes also offer photo printing as a service, so talk to your funeral director about your photo options.

10. Add music.

Music is a powerfully connective force, and if music was especially important to your loved one, find a way to add it to their funeral. You could make a playlist of their favorite songs to play during the viewing or hire a singer to perform one of their favorite songs during the funeral service itself. You could also hire a band or solo artist to perform at a reception.

Customizing a funeral looks different for every family, and you may have some of your own ideas about ways to make your loved one’s funeral personal to them. Whatever your ideas may be, talk to your funeral director about them. Even if you believe they may be challenging to do, funeral homes have plenty of experience turning those unique ideas into beautiful aspects of a loved one’s funeral.

Grief is Real

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

What is an Ossuary?

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

What is a Columbarium Niche?

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

What Can the Funeral Home Do for a Veteran?

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Many who serve in the United States Military make a career of service. Others serve for a brief period and then move on to other careers. Regardless of whether the military is a person’s life work or a part of their life for a brief period, the experience often leaves its mark. When the time comes to plan a funeral for a veteran it can be difficult for family members to sort out how much to emphasize the military service. Your funeral director is just the person to help. He or she can suggest ideas that incorporate all the important aspects of one’s life into a single cohesive service plan. The funeral home offers many products that have a military theme. Caskets, vaults, and cremation urns that represent each branch of the service are available to honor a veteran’s service experience. Pictures and video tributes can be put together that showcase all aspects and stages of life. Music selections may include the familiar songs that identify each branch of the service. All of the military aspects can be integrated with love of family, interests and hobbies, as well as spiritual beliefs that identify the multifaceted person who has died. The Federal Government provides burial benefits for those who are honorably discharged from any branch of the service. What is provided is dependent upon enlistment status at the time of death and circumstances of the death. Suffice it to say the burial benefit provided by the government will not take care of everything. The funeral director will help a veteran’s family access those benefits available and fill in where needed. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

Three Reasons to Preplan Your Funeral When Your Family Doesn’t Live Close

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

How and When Do You Pay for a Funeral?

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Routine is a Life Saver

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Five Tips to Help with the Year of Firsts

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Thinking No Funeral? Think Again

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Jewish Funeral Traditions

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 16:27:00 GMT

Trouble Sleeping After A Loss

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 15:11:00 GMT

Why Don’t We Celebrate Life While the Person is Alive?

Sat, 27 May 2023 15:02:00 GMT

Interesting question, isn’t it? The person asking the question had recently attended what he described as a “fabulous funeral.” Turns out the funeral was billed as a celebration of life. Our questioner, Mark, attended because the person who died was the mother of a co-worker he had worked with for more than 30 years. Mark was so impressed with the woman’s talents, interests, and accomplishments, all of which were highlighted during the service, he said he wished he had known her. The service got him thinking. Perhaps the deceased would have enjoyed seeing how much her neighbors, friends, grandchildren and children thought of her? Mark was thinking it might be better to celebrate a person’s life BEFORE they die. What about that idea? Don’t we do that? Celebrate a person’s life while they are alive. It’s called a birthday party. Maybe we hold back a little. Perhaps we don’t gush over the person’s accomplishments as much on the birthday because the birthday boy or girl is too humble to feel comfortable being lauded while present and breathing? So, is the value of a wonderful life celebration/funeral diminished because the person it was all about isn’t there to enjoy it? Or does the “value” of a funeral run deeper than that? Isn’t a funeral a validation of the significance of life in general? Might the fact that Mark was so moved by this ordinary women’s life inspire him to make more of his own? Isn’t it a worthwhile lesson for all of us to take a few hours and remember a person who died? Each of us is unique. Each of us walks a different path. Shouldn’t just about everyone’s life be summed up with a “fabulous funeral”? www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

What to Expect When Your Catholic Friend Dies

Sat, 13 May 2023 17:15:00 GMT

Cremation or Burial… is That the Question?

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 15:20:00 GMT

What to Expect with Cremation?

Sat, 15 Apr 2023 14:57:00 GMT

Until Death Do Us Part: Losing a Spouse...Three to Six Months After Loss

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 12:35:00 GMT

How Should I Prepare for My Funeral Preplanning Meeting?

Sat, 18 Mar 2023 13:04:00 GMT

It's Not Really a Funeral Plan if it's Not at the Funeral Home

Sat, 04 Mar 2023 15:42:00 GMT

Do I Really Need to Attend the Funeral?

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 15:47:00 GMT

When the Soul Leaves the Body … Reacting to a Sudden Unexpected Death

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 15:32:00 GMT

Get Your Family Involved in Funeral Planning

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 15:12:00 GMT

When death is near or has just occurred, there are so many things to do and yet there is nothing you can do. You feel helpless. You can’t make the person well or bring them back. But you know you will, very soon, need to make many decisions about the service, the final resting place, the music, food, flowers, donations, clothing and much more. Your mind is racing and oddly enough, at the same time, at a complete standstill. On one hand it feels like it is too soon to do anything. You’re just not ready. But at the same time, you feel the weight of all that is coming. This is stress. It is hard. If you can, reach out to your family and friends and let them help you. Have your son or daughter get the older grandchildren involved in pulling together pictures and music. They are really good at this stuff. Going through the pictures brings back happy memories and it’s one of the most therapeutic chores that comes with funeral preparation. Let them do something that will help them - they are dealing with this loss too. If would you would like family and friends to donate to a charity, put someone in charge of looking into that. Have your daughter-in-law pull together a few clothing choices for your final selection. Send your son-in-law to the cemetery or have him get the cars washed. You may want to delegate the task of writing the eulogy and obituary. Give someone the job of gathering information for the funeral luncheon or brunch. Spread the work around. Let go, embrace help and give them something to do. You’ll feel better that things are getting done and they’ll feel better because they are involved and helping. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

How Much do Funerals Cost?

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 15:10:00 GMT

To Do or Not to Do…A Funeral

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 12:56:00 GMT

Talking with a Veteran

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 12:13:00 GMT

Is It Bad Luck to Plan Your Funeral in Advance?

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 04:32:00 GMT

Definitely not. In fact, if one were to ask the children and family members of those who planned their funeral in advance how they felt about their family member’s foresight they would no doubt tell you they felt very lucky indeed. Imagine this: your phone rings or buzzes or sings and you answer or check your messages only to find out someone you care about has died. Maybe they succumbed to a long and difficult illness or perhaps the death was caused by an accident or a sudden unexpected medical event. What happens next? If you are one of the family decision makers, you begin to come together. That coming together can mean a drive across town or it may involve booking a flight. It can mean a series of telephone calls or a Zoom style family meeting. There will be questions that need to be answered and decisions that must be made. Where did the death occur? Who do you call to transport the body? Where will the body be taken? Which funeral home will be used? When will a service take place? Will there be burial, cremation or something else? Will there be a spiritual component? Who will prepare the death notice? Who will take care of writing the obituary? How much will everything cost and who will pay? How soon will funds be available? There will be many decisions that must be made in a short period of time. Now, imagine there is a plan in place. Funeral arrangements have been made and paid for in advance, maybe even years before an illness was even known about. Imagine family members knowing exactly who to call, what will happen, how much it will cost and how all the services will be paid for. Luck is with those who prepare. It’s called making your own luck. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

Nice Looking Funeral Home Doesn’t Mean Expensive

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 10:50:00 GMT

How to Thank a Veteran

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 02:01:00 GMT

Cheap Funeral Homes

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 02:58:00 GMT

We all love in very different ways: Preserving the Family Relationship while Planning a Funeral

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 06:18:00 GMT

Where should I send my condolences?

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 06:16:00 GMT

Why plan your funeral in advance?

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 16:37:00 GMT

Moving after a spouse dies?

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 16:35:00 GMT

Honoring Military Service

Fri, 28 May 2021 20:20:00 GMT

Taps. There is nothing like the sound of those patriotic notes. It grabs your heart, it makes you cry. It honors the service and risk a man or woman took for our safety and the safety of our country. Public law provides military burial benefits for all who served and were honorably discharged from any of the five branches of the U.S. Military. Your funeral director or advance funeral planner can explain all of the benefits you or your family members are eligible to receive. They will also access those benefits related to the funeral or burial on your behalf. Your funeral director can help you weave the remembrance of your loved one’s military service into the fabric of their full life experience. Most who have served in any of the branches of our military, whether it be for a few years or as a career, will tell you the experience had a profound impact on their life. Even when the service period was brief and at a tender age and followed by many years of some other vocation, that service should be honored. The funeral professionals at your local funeral home have the resources and know how to help you get the remembrance just right. In addition to the playing of taps and flag ceremony provided by public law, there are caskets, vaults, and urns that highlight each branch of the armed services to be considered. Photos and music can also be a part of the funeral gathering or ceremony and can add so much to the remembrance. How much or how little your family wishes to focus on the military service of a loved one is a matter of personal choice. With the assistance of your funeral director, a military service can be planned that finds the perfect balance for your family. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

Thinking about skipping the funeral?

Fri, 28 May 2021 20:10:00 GMT

Remembering a rabid football fan

Wed, 19 May 2021 17:58:00 GMT

Who Should Record my Funeral Wishes?

Fri, 07 May 2021 19:56:00 GMT

Memorial Day

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 22:11:00 GMT

Who Will Take Care of My Funeral Plans?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 22:09:00 GMT

What to Give Mom for Mother’s Day

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 15:30:00 GMT

Finding YOUR Joy

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 15:27:00 GMT

Why do we have eggs and chocolate rabbits at Easter?

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 15:25:00 GMT

Our dog died and my family wants to get a new one. Why?

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 23:17:00 GMT

When a beloved pet dies, the death leaves a void in its human owner’s life. There will be no jumping, wagging greeting waiting for them when they come home. Every pet owner knows there are days when the walk, or cleaning the litter, is more dreaded than enjoyed. But when the chore is gone, they feel the loss. Sure, they have their popcorn all to themselves. But they miss their fur friend. They miss those expectant eyes looking up at them waiting for a kernel of the human treat. Their pet is gone and it is missed! So, what about getting a new dog? Getting new dog or cat is not for everyone. But for some pet lovers, that void, the hole in their life, is unbearable. They seek to fill the hole. They need that fur baby to take for a walk, to feed, to talk to, to sleep on their feet, to be glad they are home. Fair warning to the mourning owner, a new pet is not a replacement for the beloved pet that has passed. Just as when we lose a human family member, the individual cannot be replaced. The pet that died was unique, one of a kind. There will never be another cat or dog just like your fur friend. For those who need to get a new dog, or cat, or bird, or snake, it’s the role the pet played in their life they seek to fill. There is just a need to fill the hole death has left in their life. The pet who passed isn’t forgotten. People who have had multiple pets have a whole string of memories and stories. Those memories stay. They are with them always. Pets enrich our lives. So, for some the need to have a new pet is almost immediate. Others need more time. Some fill the hole in another way entirely. Try not to judge the needs of a family member when their desire to get a new pet is out of sync with yours. Do your best to understand. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

Honoring Military Service

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 23:15:00 GMT

Funerals are for Saints and Sinners

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 22:11:00 GMT

How did St. Valentine’s Day get started?

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 22:49:00 GMT

Hearts, flowers, chocolate, the feast day of a Saint, just what is Valentine’s Day? Some tell us it is a holiday created to brighten the cold dark winter month of February. The holiday goes all the way back to the Romans. The Roman Festival of Lupercalia held in mid-February to celebrate the coming of Spring culminated in a lottery that matched up men and women. It was all about love from the beginning. In the 5th century Pope Gelasius I changed the festival to Saint Valentine’s Day, but the love stuck. Saint Valentine’s Feast Day was associated with courtly love. By the 14 th century Valentine’s Day was a day to celebrate romance. Flowers, cards, and chocolate were soon to follow. Today, on Valentine’s Day we still celebrate love. What could be better? What is more important than those we love? On February 14th we push the pause button on the demands of life and make telling our husbands, wives, children, parents, brothers, sisters, and friends they are important to us and we love them. It is a little holiday. It does not take a lot to let someone know they are loved. Remember you will not have these people forever. Take a minute or two to share the love! www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

Control funeral costs by planning ahead

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 21:36:00 GMT

Food and funerals

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 21:34:00 GMT

Navigating the New Year 2021

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 17:52:00 GMT

The cranberry sauce is for dad

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 23:54:00 GMT

People often say that one of the hardest things about that first year, the year after your loved one died, is that no one uses their name or talks about them. The hole in your heart begins to feel deeper and wider because talking about them seems forbidden. And as the holidays approach, the quietness can feel even more painful. So, why not take the bull by the horns, so to speak, and find a way to bring your loved one to your holiday gathering in a light but meaningful way. A good example of keeping your loved one in your holiday gathering is the family that always includes that jiggly cranberry sauce straight from the can on their table. There it is - just as it comes from the can - indentations, ridges, and all. Every year it’s there for dad. Every year it is ceremoniously placed on the table accompanied by a few words about how important it was to dad’s enjoyment of the holiday. Every year it brings lots of smiles and stories about dad. If you have lost someone dear, and you miss them more at the holidays, consider opening the conversation, using their name, and talking about them in a positive way. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

Christmas

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 16:54:00 GMT

How to dress for a funeral

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 16:50:00 GMT

The First Thanksgiving Without the One You Love

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 16:40:00 GMT

Saying thank-you to a Veteran

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 17:53:00 GMT

There are a million ways to say thank you. Great or small they all have value. Decide to always just say thank you whenever you see a person in uniform. When you see a person in uniform at the coffee shop or fast food restaurant pick up their tab if you can. At the airport trade your first class or comfort seat for their standard seat If you have a neighbor who is deployed offer to play catch with the kids or mow the lawn. Ask how you can help Send a care package by contacting Operation Gratitude Donate your old cell phone Drive a Veteran to their doctor appointments (contact the hospital services coordinator at the local VA hospital) Write a letter Volunteer at a VA hospital If you run a business hire a veteran - Hire Heroes USA Donate dollars or time to train service dogs for veterans - Patriot Paws or Puppy Jake Foundation Build a house for a veteran - Building Homes for Heroes Big dollars or only a few dollars, lots of time or only a little time, where there is a will there is a way to say thank you to those who serve in our military. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

How to Say the Right Thing at a Funeral

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 17:51:00 GMT

First, take a deep breath and relax. We all worry that we’ll say the wrong thing. Second, know that you don’t have to be eloquent. While we wish it were so, you can’t make everything all better with a few words. Here are a few simple ideas to keep in mind to be sure you say the right thing when attending a funeral. Don’t underestimate the power of your presence. It’s important. Just being there says more than you can know. Keep your words simple. “I’m sorry for your loss” may be all that is needed. Share your story. If you have a brief anecdote about how you interacted with the deceased, share it. Knowing how her sister lit up her workplace may just be the most comforting thing a mourner can hear. Use the deceased person’s name. “Mary always made me laugh.” “John had the longest drive, too bad it wasn’t always straight.” “We always knew when Big Bad Byron was in the plant, everyone was on their toes.” “Nobody made better chocolate chip cookies than your mother.” Avoid using common platitudes. Resist the temptation to tell the bereaved how they must feel -- “grateful that he is in a better place,” “relieved that his suffering is over,” “grateful for a long life,” etc. We don’t know how that wife, husband, mother, son, or daughter actually feels. Just say you’re sorry for their loss. Let them tell you how they feel and accept it with a nod or hug. Don’t forget about listening. Listen to understand, not just to hear. Listen to show you care, not to judge. Listen with love, even when you’ve heard the story before. www.walkerfuneralhomes.com

What to expect at a funeral

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 17:50:00 GMT

What Do Funeral Directors Do?

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 17:48:00 GMT

“Mommy, when is Grandma coming back?”— Explaining Death to Children

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 14:19:00 GMT

Creating a Meaningful Tribute on a Budget

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 14:07:00 GMT

At Walker Family Funeral Homes & Crematory , it’s our privilege to serve people from all faiths, cultural backgrounds and walks of life. It does not matter what your needs or budget are, because we are going to help you craft a service that is memorable and personal. They say the best things in life are free, and that’s true in funeral service as well. It’s the level of personalization and thought you put into your loved one’s farewell that is really going to make all the difference. So once you’ve determined your budget, stick to it! We’ll help you. Here are some ideas for personalizing a funeral service that doesn’t cost a thing: Write a poem to be read during the service. Ask a friend to play special music – maybe even an original composition if you’re musically inclined. Choose a dress code and ask your guests to participate – some ideas include wearing your loved one’s favorite color or the jersey for their favorite sports team. Play your loved one’s favorite music, whether that was Handel or Elvis Presley. Carry a theme throughout the visitation and service that reflects your friend or family member’s life and interests. Maybe feature fishing paraphernalia or surround the space with cooking utensils and recipes. Design a memory table showcasing specific items that represent your loved one’s life, hobbies, and passions. We know your loved one was special – no one on earth was exactly like them. We will partner with you in creating a service that is as unique as they were. Think about the most memorable funeral service you’ve ever been to. What made it so special? Share in the comments below.

When your Family Needs Help, Trust Our Family

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:28:00 GMT

Tips for Improving Your Life in 2020

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:24:00 GMT

What Family Ownership Means for You

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:20:00 GMT

Empowering Those at the End of Their Lives Through Preplanning

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:14:00 GMT

Managing Grief During the Holidays

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:10:00 GMT

A Tribute to Veterans

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 15:08:00 GMT

Does It Matter If I Attend the Funeral?

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:57:00 GMT

The Cremation with Confidence™ Guarantee: Why It Matters for You

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:54:00 GMT

Our Website, Your Online Home

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:38:00 GMT

Four of the Most Popular Personalization Options

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:31:00 GMT

Top Three Myths About Preplanning

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:27:00 GMT

Creating Meaningful Receptions

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:22:00 GMT

Social Media Do’s and Don’ts: 4 Tips to Know Before You Post

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:17:00 GMT

Ideas for Reconnecting with Life After a Loss

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 14:10:00 GMT

Announcing Our New Blog!

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 13:57:00 GMT