Carol Van Ahlers

When we lose someone we love, we naturally look for ways to keep their memory alive. Flowers, photos and gatherings bring comfort, but charitable giving offers a lasting memorial. It’s a way to take love and loss and turn them into something that continues to do good in the world. Donating in someone’s name allows […]

In this second of our two part series, we hope to provide details about the option of choosing a burial for a loved one who has passed. Part one, which ran two weeks ago, provided information about cremation. The purpose of this series is to give families enough information to help them make an informed

When a family is faced with planning a final farewell, one of the first decisions is whether to choose cremation or burial. Each option carries its own traditions, benefits, and possibilities for personalization. As a fourth-generation, family-owned funeral home, we have seen many families faced with this decision and know the importance of giving them

Giving a eulogy is a deeply personal way to honor a friend or family member who has passed away. While the task may feel overwhelming, it’s also an opportunity to bring comfort, share memories, and celebrate a life well lived. The first step is to prepare, by taking time to gather your thoughts and reflect

At my father’s memorial service years ago, my mother asked one of the sons of my parent’s best friends to speak at the service. I remember talking to him before the service and he was nervous and not really sure if he was the right person for the task. To this day, I am so

Every June, the Northern Hemisphere experiences the longest day of the year—a moment marked by ancient rituals, bonfires, festivals, and quiet reflection. This day is known as the summer solstice, and while the exact date can vary slightly each year—falling on June 20 or June 21—its significance has remained timeless across cultures and generations. This

It’s been awhile since we have talked about planning a memorial service for a family member or friend. Often, if the loved one had a pre-planning arrangement, the overall plan for the service may have already been outlined. Even so, there are always ways to add special touches to help those who are grieving and

Memorial Day is a day steeped in history, reflection, and honor—a time to remember those who gave their lives in military service to the United States. As we gather with family and friends for barbecues or long weekends away, it’s worth remembering the deeper meaning behind the holiday. Here is a bit of information you

Margie Hilgenfeld Field was Hilgenfeld Mortuary’s third generation leader as she took over the operations of the business from her father, Melvin in 1987. Serving in the role of president until her passing in 2015, Margie brought compassionate and loving care not only to the families Hilgenfeld Mortuary served, but also the community that had

In our last blog we featured the growing trend of women leadership in the funeral industry. One of the most positive outcomes has been a different approach to the way families experience their interactions with a funeral home. When facing one of life’s most difficult moments, working with a woman-owned or family-owned mortuary can bring