+ What type of service should I have?

Only you can answer that question. The type of service conducted is decided by the family. The service is usually held at a place of worship or at the funeral home. The service may vary in ritual according to religious denomination or the wishes of the family. The type of funeral service options can be a traditional funeral with burial at a cemetery, a traditional funeral with cremation after the service, or cremation with a memorial service.A memorial service is usually a service without the body present and can vary in ceremony and procedures according to the family's community and religious affiliations.

+ Can I personalize my funeral service?

Absolutely. Funeral directors are happy to discuss all options and ensure the funeral is arranged according to your wishes. It may be personalized in many unique ways. Contact us at (262) 728-3353 for assistance with any personalization questions.

+ Why should we have a public viewing?

There are many reasons to view the deceased. It is part of many cultural and ethnic traditions, and many grief specialists believe that viewing aids the grief process, by helping the bereaved recognize the reality of death. Viewing is even encouraged for children, as long as it is their desire to do so, and the process is explained well.

+ Do we need an obituary notice?

No, but an obituary is helpful to friends and the community to be published announcing the death and type of service to be held. The staff at the funeral home is here to assist the family in writing the obituary and submitting it to the general public. An obituary can be placed in any newspaper the family desires and on our website, www.monroefh.com.

+ What do funeral directors do?

Funeral directors are both caregivers and administrators. In their administrative duties, they make the arrangements for transportation of the body, complete all necessary paperwork, and implement the choices made by the family regarding the funeral and final disposition of the body.

As caregivers, funeral directors are listeners, advisors and supporters. They have experience assisting the bereaved in coping with death. Funeral directors are trained to answer questions about grief, recognize when a person is having difficulty coping, and recommend sources of professional help.

+ What should I do if the death occurs in the middle of the night or on the weekend?

We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All you need to do is place a call to us at (262) 728-3353.

+ What should I do if a death occurs while away from home?

Your funeral director can assist you no matter where the death occurs. Contact your hometown funeral director of choice immediately. They will assume responsibility and coordinate the arrangements for the return of the deceased person to their community. We will handle all of the logistics and make the process as easy as possible for the grieving family.

+ What is the purpose of embalming?

Embalming makes it possible to lengthen the time between death and the final disposition, thus allowing family members time to arrange and participate in the type of service most comforting to them. Embalming the body enables mourners to view the deceased if they wish. The emotional benefits of viewing the deceased are important, particularly to those having difficulty dealing with the death.

+ Is embalming mandatory by law?

No. But, certain factors of time, health and possible legal requirements might make embalming either appropriate or necessary.

+ Can I have a visitation period and a funeral service if cremation is chosen?

Yes. Cremation does not preclude having a visitation period and a funeral service. Cremation is simply one option for final disposition of the body.