Family Memorial Mortuary

You Do WHAT for a living!!?? Part One

This post comes from our awsome funeral director Toni - Funeral directors, especially female ones, hear that question often. As a culture I really think we are both fascinated and repelled by death. Most of us are “death deniers” and yet we all look at the car wreck as we go by. Since I get asked just this question by almost everyone I meet for the first time, I thought I’d share how I came to be a mortician. I’ve had LOTS of different jobs starting in high school with restaurant work. I’ve w... READ MORE Posted November 08, 2011 at 12:42 PM

Grandma Scattered in the Backyard

Imagine you're house hunting. You're going through a beautiful home in the countryside. It could include perfect views over a lake; a gorgeous view of Mt Hood's snow capped peak or lush pastoral fields. A peaceful tranquil setting, just what you're looking for. Then the seller says: "We love this place. We hate to leave, because grandma is scattered in the backyard overlooking the wonderful view." The scattering of cremated remains has become a trend. People choose cr... READ MORE Posted July 26, 2011 at 05:09 PM

The Physical Effects of Grief - Family Memorial Mortuary

There is so little in life we control and grief's timing is among the uncontrollable. Grief causes tremendous turmoil in every aspect of life and involves a wide range of physical, emotional and spiritual responses. All are perfectly normal responses to the trauma of losing a loved one. This loss can quickly turn our world into an unfamiliar place. According to Brook Noel at griefsteps.com when we can understand how grief affects us, we are better equipped to deal with its grip. While we wish... READ MORE Posted May 11, 2011 at 11:25 AM