Most of us don’t like to think about our own mortality – let alone plan for it. Sure, we make arrangements for other events in life. Think of the planning involved when you make a major purchase or organize a vacation or party. Not to mention the thought and time you invest thinking (and, perhaps, dreaming) about retirement! When it comes to your end-of-life wishes, have you given any consideration to your funeral plans and how you’d like to be remembered? The good news is that this kind of planning takes no time at all and is a tremendous gift to give your family.

Every day, we talk with people in Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, and Pinole who are surprised by the option to preplan their own funeral arrangements. Some have never heard of preplanning, while others simply haven’t gotten around to it or are putting it off until they’re older.

 

Our team at Sunset View Cemetery knows how much preplanning matters, in large part, because we meet with family after family who have to make numerous decisions on behalf of the loved one they just lost. We’ve seen the stress this causes during an already difficult time. We’ve heard families argue and disagree about what they think their loved one would have wanted. We understand family dynamics can be difficult to navigate during the best of times, much less while in the throes of grief.

 

This is why we encourage everyone to put their arrangements in writing. In short, when you preplan, you remove the responsibility from your family while putting yourself in the driver’s seat. You can decide whether you want a traditional burial or cremation. If there are specific songs or readings you’d like included in a funeral service. Would you appreciate donations in your name to a much-loved charity or organization? You can even choose to fund your pre-arranged plans, to take the financial burden off your family. Keep in mind – you don’t have to pre-pay if you preplan – we can simply keep your wishes on file, if you’d like.

 

All of these decisions can be made in your timing, at your leisure.  As you consider preplanning, remember that, with Sunset View Cemetery, the process is easier than ever. You can begin preplanning from the comfort of home with our easy-to-use online planning form. You don’t have to ever come into the funeral home if you don’t want to! If you feel more comfortable with a personal meeting, our preplanning specialists can guide you through every option.

 

Our caring staff is here for you at your convenience. Reach out to us to get started. You’ll be surprised by the ease of the process and peace of mind it brings.