John Bullis Column: Let’s Think About Funerals
First a little background. One of my grandfathers started a mortuary in Hardin, Montana just over a hundred years ago. It is still run by family, currently one of my cousins. My father had many occupations, including being a mortician.
When we begin planning for a funeral, one of the first decisions is a choice of wanting burial or cremation. It is important to put a letter with your choice with your estate planning documents. That helps the family be confident in doing what you wanted.
I remember a local doctor who donated his body to the medical school. Certainly organ donation seems a good idea. That can save lives.
I think a funeral service or a memorial service is important to the family. We seem to all go through the grieving process in different ways and times. A service of some sort seems appropriate for the survivors.
A few folks plan their funeral in great detail. Who to preside, what songs to sing, etc. My problem is I have so many favorite songs. Planning like that can also help the family.
Some folks have prepaid their funeral costs and related expenses. A few have ‘earmarked’ a certain amount to pay for the wake or the celebration of life expenses. It could be a small savings account that is payable on death to the person(s) you want to be in charge.
I think a little planning done now can be beneficial in the long run. It is also appropriate to discuss your goals and desires with your family members to help them through the various decisions.
Did you hear: “Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul.” — Luther Burbank (1849-1926) Horticulturist.
— John Bullis is a certified public accountant, personal financial specialist and certified senior adviser who has served Carson City for more than 45 years. He is founder emeritus of Bullis and Company CPAs in Carson City.