It is the customary way to recognize death and its finality. Funeral rituals are found worldwide in every society, and they have occurred since before the beginning of recorded history. They confirm the worth and dignity of the dead, and they help friends and relatives begin the grief process. It may be a little self-serving to hear a funeral home say this, but every life lived deserves a funeral, no matter how undeserving you may feel personally or how unimportant your station in life may seem. You are significant, and funeral ritual gives the living—all of us—a chance to reflect on this.
Why have public viewing?
Viewing is part of many cultural and ethnic traditions. Many grief specialists report that viewing aids the grief process by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death.
Can you help with cremation arrangements?
Yes, our funeral home provides several packages of services consistent with cremation wishes. These services may range from a complete funeral service with the body present and viewed to a simple direct cremation. If you would like more detailed information about cremation options, feel free to contact us.
How much does cremation cost?
Funeral arrangements that include cremation as a final form of disposition can cost as little as amount for a service that includes embalming, visitation, and funeral service in our chapel or your church. You may choose a direct cremation with no funeral service at this price (combustible casket or cremation container and optional urn additional). For a detailed cremation pricing guideline, please fill out and submit our information request form.
What do caskets cost? I saw on a recent television show that they cost $10,000!
Very rarely does a casket cost $10,000, but some fine hardwoods and some bronze caskets can sell for that much and more. As with almost any tangible product, caskets can be produced to sell within a wide range. At our funeral home you will find caskets on display ranging in price.
What is the purpose of a vault, and how much do they cost?
Outer burial containers enclose the casket and support the weight of the earth. Many are also designed to prevent water from entering the casket. Although no law requires that a burial vault be used, some cemeteries may require some kind of outer enclosure.
Where may I receive additional information concerning grief recovery?
Our funeral home assumes a leadership role in providing material to those wishing information on grief resolution. Call us, we can help.
What should I do if death occurs away from home?
If the death occurs out of state, you should call Hursen Funeral Home on our toll-free number, (800) 562-0082. We can coordinate with local funeral directors at the place of death. Oftentimes we can save you money by contacting us first.
Can you help me with a memorial for my cemetery?
Yes, we have a source of supply for both granite and bronze memorials. We will be pleased to work with you in obtaining a memorial with the finest in both materials and workmanship.
What is Hospice and where can I find more information?
Hospice is a special concept of care designed to provide comfort and support to patients and their families when a life-limiting illness no longer responds to cure-oriented treatments, but this is just the beginning. For more detailed information, please visit the Hospice Foundation of America.
If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at (708) 547-8200 or toll-free at (800) 562-0082, or through our convenient online information request form.