The Newest (and Oldest) Ideas in Funeral Planning

Reading through the news letter from the First Unitarian Society of Madison (where my family and I are members) I noticed a class that might be of interest to my readers --

The Newest (and Oldest) Ideas in Funeral Planning

Over 100 decisions must be made within 24 hours of a death, a time when loved ones are in a time of great stress. Advance planning can make things a little easier. The first half of the class will cover many of the issues in pre-planning a funeral and burial/cremation. Topics covered include state laws with regard to burial and cremation, burial trusts, funerals, memorial services, and means to plan in advance for these events. Planning in advance is a gift to your loved ones and will ensure your values are respected. The second half will offer information and material on "green" funerals and burials in light of state regulations. Information will be provided to allow participants to choose more ecologically sensitive options, such as biodegradable caskets, and make them aware of the cemeteries in Wisconsin that have green burial sites. Rachel Bledsoe, from Cress Funeral Home, will help in this presentation. Cress has recently been certified as a member of the Green Burial Council, the first in Dane County.

Susan Wester, M.D., is a retired pathologist who worked at Gundersen Clinic in La Crosse for 25 years, prior to relocating to Madison in 2007. She continues to work part-time in pathology. She is on the board of directors of Compassion and Choices of Wisconsin, a death-with-dignity organization, and is a member of the FUS End-of-Life Taskforce.