Answers to Common Questions About Funeral and Cremation Services

When faced with the loss of a loved one, making decisions about funeral services and cremations can be overwhelming. To help you navigate this difficult time, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about cremations and funeral services, along with insights on how Piasecki Funeral Home can assist you.

A funeral service typically incorporates the body of the deceased and is held shortly after death, whereas a memorial service is often held without the body present, sometimes with cremated remains present, and can occur weeks or months later. Piasecki Funeral Home offers both options, tailoring each service to meet the specific needs and wishes of the family.

Cremation is a process that reduces the body to ashes through high-temperature combustion.. Piasecki Funeral Home provides a respectful and dignified cremation service, ensuring all procedures comply with legal and ethical standards.

Yes, you can have a traditional funeral service before cremation or a memorial service after the cremation. Piasecki Funeral Home offers flexible service options to honor your loved one’s memory according to your preferences.

Wisconsin law requires cremation authorization from the next-of-kin, a cremation permit from the medical examiner’s office, a physician’s attestation as to the cause of death, and a waiting period of 48 hours after death before cremation can take place. We will handle all necessary paperwork and ensure compliance with state regulations so you don’t have to worry about anything during this trying time.

Deciding whether children should attend funeral services is a deeply personal choice that depends on various factors, including the child’s age, maturity level, and relationship with the deceased. For many children, attending a funeral can be a meaningful way to say goodbye and understand the concept of loss. It can also offer a chance to see the supportive nature of family and community during times of grief. However, it’s essential to prepare children for what to expect and ensure they feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Ultimately, parents and guardians should consider the individual child’s needs and feelings when making this decision.

The cost of funeral services can vary significantly depending on various factors such as location, the type of service, and specific choices made by the family. On average, traditional funeral services, which include a viewing, ceremony, and burial, can range from $7,000 to $12,000. This typically covers expenses such as the funeral home’s professional services, transportation, casket, embalming, and the use of facilities for the service. Cremation services tend to be less costly, often ranging from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on whether a viewing or memorial service is included. Additional costs outside of the funeral home, such as cemetery fees, grave markers, and flowers, can further impact the overall expense. It’s important for families to discuss their budget and preferences with the funeral home to ensure their needs are met within their financial means.

Personalizing a service can include incorporating favorite music, displaying photographs, and sharing stories or eulogies. There are many ways to personalize a loved one’s service, and we will be happy to work with families to create a meaningful and personalized service that reflects the unique life of the deceased.

Eco-friendly burial options, also known as green burials, focus on reducing the environmental impact of traditional burial practices. These options typically involve using biodegradable materials for caskets or shrouds, foregoing embalming chemicals, and choosing natural burial sites that promote the conservation of natural habitats. Green burials aim to allow the body to decompose naturally, returning nutrients to the earth and preserving the environment. Additionally, some cemeteries offer designated green burial sections where graves are marked with native plants or simple, natural markers instead of traditional headstones. This sustainable approach to burial provides an environmentally conscious alternative for those seeking to minimize their ecological footprint.

When a family member passes away while out of town, contact Piasecki Funeral Home for compassionate and professional assistance. We understand the emotional and logistical challenges this situation presents and are here to support you every step of the way. Our team will collaborate with a trusted funeral director in the distant city, state, or country to manage all necessary details on your behalf. This includes obtaining the required legal documents, such as the death certificate, and coordinating with local authorities to ensure proper care and handling of your loved one. Together, we will gather all the essential information and make arrangements for the safe and timely transfer of your loved one back home. Piasecki Funeral Home is dedicated to providing seamless and respectful services during this difficult time, ensuring that your loved one is brought back with dignity and care.

Preparing a memorial service for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming, but making arrangements in advance of a death can bring significant peace of mind to you and your family. Advance planning reduces the sudden emotional and financial stress associated with loss, allowing for thoughtful decision-making without the pressure of immediate grief. It enables you to select the memorial, interment, and services you prefer, ensuring your wishes are honored and providing clear guidance for your family. By planning ahead, you also have the opportunity to manage costs and make informed choices that reflect your values and preferences.

To help you navigate this process, Piasecki Funeral Home offers workshops on advance planning for funeral services. These workshops provide valuable information on the benefits of pre-planning, the various options available, and the steps involved in making arrangements.