Pre-arranging a funeral may not be the easiest topic to discuss, but it offers peace of mind and ensures that final wishes are honored. Kyle Newhard of Bartholomew Funeral Home in Valparaiso, Indiana, highlights the value of this planning process, often referred to as “pre-need” or “pre-planning.”
“Pre-arranging a funeral allows families to make decisions with a clear mind, without the stress and pressure of a difficult moment,” Newhard said. “They’re in control of what their final disposition is going to be.”
Making these arrangements can ease both emotional and financial burdens during an already overwhelming time. By planning ahead, families can thoughtfully select services that align with their preferences and budget, rather than making rushed decisions in the wake of a loss. This proactive approach also provides peace of mind for loved ones, ensuring that arrangements reflect the individual’s wishes without the weight of grief clouding the process.
Pre-arranging not only helps with decision-making but also alleviates financial stress. It allows individuals to make decisions about every aspect of their service, from the type of casket they prefer to whether they’d like to be cremated or buried while locking in today’s costs for services.
“When you pre-arrange you lock in today’s prices, which can protect against inflation and rising costs in the future,” Newhard said. “If you were to come in and prepay for your funeral today, and in 50 years that same funeral costs $5,000 more, you will still only pay the original amount.”
Pre-paying involves placing funds in a trust managed by an insurance company. This ensures that the money grows over time to keep up with inflation, providing security for both the funeral home and the family.
“The money doesn’t go directly into our bank account. It’s put into investments to ensure it’s there when needed,” Newhard said.
Flexible payment options are available for families unable to pay the full amount upfront.
“People might come in and say, ‘I don’t have $8,000 today, but I’d like to take care of the casket now,’” Newhard said. “That’s fine. You can handle one thing at a time.”
Beyond financial advantages, pre-arranging reduces stress for grieving families. Newhard often sees families find comfort in knowing their loved one’s wishes are clear and accounted for.
“Pretty often, people will come in and say, ‘Here’s what grandma came in and gave us. This is what she wanted,’” Newhard said. “It’s a lot less for them to think about, especially at a time when there’s so much going through their minds.”
Pre-arranged funerals also provide a unique opportunity to create services that truly reflect an individual’s life, values, and personality. According to Newhard, the planning process allows people to incorporate personal touches – from specific music or poetry to unique memorial items – that may not be considered in the immediacy of grief.
“We find that pre-arranged funerals are often more personalized because people have time to consider what’s most meaningful to them,” he said.
Bartholomew Funeral Home’s commitment to families extends beyond the initial planning process. By meticulously maintaining records of pre-arrangements, the funeral home ensures that families have access to seamless and reliable services, even years later. This continuity of care underscores the funeral home’s dedication to providing ongoing support during life’s most difficult moments.
For those hesitant to begin the process, Newhard advises asking questions and taking small steps.
“This is an industry that has always been a little taboo,” he said. “If you’re not sure, ask questions. Our knowledge is free. We’ll provide information and draw up some estimates. Even if you don’t prepay, you’ll at least know what to expect.”
Bartholomew Funeral Home’s team, which includes licensed funeral directors and an insurance agent specializing in pre-arrangements, is available to answer questions and guide families through the process.
“If you have any questions, stop in, call us, or visit our website,” Newhard said. “There’s no such thing as a stupid question. We’re always here to help.”
While the topic of death may be uncomfortable, pre-arranging a funeral is an act of care for families and their loved ones. It ensures that your wishes are respected and that your family can focus on healing when the time comes.
“It’s satisfying knowing that everything is done and taken care of,” Newhard said. “Whatever you wanted for your final disposition, you’re going to get that. It’s one less thing for families to worry about.”
Pre-arranging a funeral may not be an easy conversation, but it is an invaluable step toward easing emotional and financial burdens for loved ones. Bartholomew Funeral Home’s compassionate team is always available to answer questions and guide families through the process, offering care and support every step of the way.
For more information about Bartholomew Funeral Home, visit bartholomewnewhard.com.