While many families prefer to stay within traditional boundaries when arranging for a memorial or funeral service, some are branching out with creative and fun ideas for ways to remember and honor their loved one.
"When I meet with people to make funeral arrangements, I talk about the importance of doing something meaningful," explained John Adolf, Director of Adolf Funeral Services. "I begin by engaging family members in a discussion of their loved one's life; asking questions about a person's life history is a wonderful way to begin developing a funeral or memorial service plan."
Adolf's goal is to listen to the ideas discussed during a funeral conference, and to use that information to help the family create the best service possible. "Although I consider myself to be somewhat traditional, I do like the way personal elements have been incorporated into the current funeral arrangement discussions," he said. "Over time, it's been proven that rituals, traditions, and symbols are significant in helping people heal from the loss of a loved one."
Some newer creative ideas that have become common in today's funeral services include memorial DVDs, playing distinctive music, and displaying items important to the deceased (golf clubs, fishing gear, snow skis, motorcycles, and musical instruments, for example). "We've also had families share a special food or dessert with guests," added Adolf. "It can be very healing for a family to share a special keepsake or gift item with those who come to pay their respects to the family. Flag pins, angel pins, flower seed packets, and recognition ribbons for a specific cause are tangible items that people can take with them."
Adolf emphasizes that attention to these special personal details are very important. "It makes the difference between a good funeral service and a great one," he said. "I work with families to make sure they have the service their loved one deserves." For more information, please contact:
Adolf Funeral Home & Cremation Services
John R. Adolf, Director
7000 South Madison Street
Willowbrook, IL 60527
630-325-2300
2921 South Harlem Avenue
Berwyn, IL 60402
708-484-4111