Helpful Articles

The role of funeral directors in planning a service
Losing a loved one is never easy, and planning a funeral service can be overwhelming. Funeral directors play an important role in the funeral planning

Exploring the benefits of choosing cremation
Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging and emotional experiences in life. When a loved one passes away, planning the funeral or
You Must Say Hello Before You Say Goodbye
by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D. A paradox is a seemingly self-contradictory statement or situation that is in fact often true. The paradox of mourning we

Understanding the Costs of Pre-Planning Your Funeral
Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, and the last thing you want is for your family to be burdened with the costs of

Pre-planning your funeral: Tips for creating a meaningful and memorable service
Pre-planning a funeral is an important part of estate planning, as it allows you to ensure that your final wishes are carried out and that

Exploring the options for memorializing your loved one after cremation
Losing a loved one can be an emotional and difficult experience, and finding ways to memorialize and honor their memory can be an important part
How to Talk to the Children and Teens in Your Life About the Newtown, CT Tragedy
by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D. Once again we are faced with the traumatic, violent deaths of a group of innocent people, this time precious children

How to Honor a Loved One Without a Funeral Service
When a loved one passes away, many families feel an immediate expectation to plan a formal funeral service. While traditional services are meaningful for many,

The environmental benefits of cremation
Environmental sustainability has become an increasingly important issue in recent years, and people are looking for ways to reduce their impact on the environment. This
First Aid for Broken Hearts
by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D. “Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.” —

The Different Types of Funeral Flowers and Their Meanings: A Comprehensive Guide
Funeral flowers are a traditional and meaningful way to express condolences and support to the family of the deceased. They provide comfort and beauty during
Helping a Friend or Family Member After a Cancer Diagnosis
by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D. While half of all men and one-third of all women in the United States will develop cancer during their lifetimes,

Why Direct Cremation Is Becoming More Popular in Oregon
Across Oregon, more families are choosing direct cremation as an alternative to traditional funeral services. This growing preference reflects changes in family values, financial considerations,

How to Create a Personalized and Meaningful Funeral Service in Beaverton
The death of a loved one is an emotionally devastating experience, and planning a funeral service can be overwhelming. The funeral service is a final
The Teeter-Totter of Resilience and Vulnerability in Grief
by Alan D. Wolfelt, Ph.D. “To share your weakness is to make yourself vulnerable; to make yourself vulnerable is to show your strength.” — Criss