Planning a cremation service to honor a loved one can be filled with stress while mourning. With so many details to handle, it’s easy to start feeling overwhelmed. The caring staff at Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska, WI, have prepared a few tips to help make the planning process a little smoother.

How to Plan a Cremation Service

Write an Obituary

It’s customary for loved ones of the deceased to provide a written announcement, also known as an obituary, of a person’s passing. Obituaries typically share a few words about the loved one and provide information on the location and time of the cremation service. If you are unsure of how to write an obituary, many funeral directors have templates that will guide you through the process. Although immediate family members traditionally write them, anyone who can gather accurate facts to compile the notice can take on this task.

Decide on a Theme & Order of Service

Selecting a theme for your service is a wonderful way to honor your loved one in a manner that best represents them. It will also serve as a guide for readings, eulogies, and musical selections. Think about what idea or qualities best embody your loved one. The idea is to choose something they will be remembered for the most.

Plan a Reception

A small gathering after a memorial service is another way for loved ones to comfort each other during a time of mourning. Decide on a location for the gathering and make plans for food or refreshments. You might choose to have the reception catered or make it a potluck. Select a location that is convenient for guests; churches, community centers, and restaurants are a few options to consider. It’s often a good idea to carry over the theme from the service into the reception to continue the celebration. 

Planning a cremation service to memorialize a loved one is difficult, but the compassionate staff at Fossum Funeral Home is ready to assist to help alleviate some of the stress. They dedicate themselves to providing the attention and care needed to handle every aspect of the memorial service so that you can focus on comforting friends and family during this difficult time. Call them at (608) 783-9777 or visit them online to learn about their staff.