Should we Have an Open Casket?

Posted on April 12, 2024 by Sytsema Funeral Home | Leave a comment
Posted under Funeral Service

“I was very surprised at my reaction. Seeing John in his casket wasn’t something I was looking forward to. His daughter (from his first marriage) really wanted an open casket.  So, I agreed. Mostly just to remain on good terms with my stepdaughter. He looked so peaceful. He had a Mona Lisa smile. I am […]

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Why Not Call the Funeral Director?

Posted on March 30, 2024 by Sytsema Funeral Home | Leave a comment
Posted under Funeral

A husband and father of four dies suddenly. He languishes in the morgue at the coroner’s office for weeks because no one knows what to do and no one is empowered to act. The only thing the kids and grandchildren can agree on is that their father did not want to spend a lot of […]

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Expressions of Condolences

Posted on March 16, 2024 by Sytsema Funeral Home | Leave a comment
Posted under Dealing with Loss

Back in the day, before embalming was wide-spread, flowers surrounded the casket and perfumed the air. Today, it is no longer necessary to have flowers scent the air.  And yet, there is something comforting about the presence of flowers at a funeral. Flowers are beautiful. What an amazing way nature has provided for life to […]

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Planning for Cremation

Posted on March 2, 2024 by Sytsema Funeral Home | Leave a comment
Posted under Uncategorized

1. Choose a cremation provider 2. Decide on a “closing” ceremony 3. Choose a final resting place Start with the end. Where will your cremated remains “rest”? There are three general choices and a variety of options within each choice. On average, a cremated human body will be reduced to about five pounds of coarse […]

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How Often Do I Need to Change the Furnace Filter?

Posted on February 16, 2024 by Sytsema Funeral Home | Leave a comment
Posted under Dealing with Loss

When there is a breakup, illness, or death and the person in the household who took care of the household necessities is no longer available, it isn’t long before you know you need help. Finding someone to do these little jobs can be difficult. It’s a good idea to be prepared to learn how to […]

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