3 Ways to Keep Family Traditions Alive After the Loss of a Loved One

Passing along traditions has been a tradition in itself for untold generations.   Creating and maintaining traditions bring meaning to holidays and other celebrations, and help create and strengthen bonds with those we love.   The connections provided by traditions offer a sense of belonging and a way to pass along values, and they tie together the generations within a family.   Here are 3 ways to keep family traditions alive after the loss of a dear loved one:

1.   Maintain traditions that were important to the deceased, but keep them simple.   “Many people say that the simple things in life are the most important, and during the recent virus isolation restrictions, that statement has proven very true,” said John Adolf, Director of Adolf Funeral Services.   “We have held a large number of funeral services during this period, and although many people have been disappointed with the restrictions for attending services, it has actually brought families closer together.   They’ve concentrated on sharing the unique and special details of the life of their loved one.   As sad as it is to lose those we love, sharing a favorite cookie recipe, for example, can instantly bring back wonderful memories.”

2.   Keep a written log of your loved one’s favorite traditions.   These can include birthday and holiday traditions, and even day-to-day traditions like saying grace at dinner.   Traditions give people something to look forward to and to cherish over the years.   Having a written list will help ensure the traditions continue to be passed along.

3.   Establish new traditions in the spirit of your loved one.   If they enjoyed reading, start a book club.   If they loved to travel, visit a new location once a year in their memory.

Be creative and don’t be afraid to modify the older traditions to meet your needs.   The point is to remember your loved one and preserve their memory for generations to come.   For more information, please contact:

Adolf Funeral Home & Cremation Services

John R. Adolf, Director

John@adolfservices.com

7000 South Madison Street

Willowbrook, IL 60527

630-325-2300

2921 South Harlem Avenue

Berwyn, IL 60402

708-484-4111

www.adolfservices.com