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Rituals are staples within the course of human life, even non-religious ones. We celebrate birthdays,
Holidays, Weddings. We even celebrate the weekend. Rituals ground us; they give us, as humans, a time to bond. With these opportunities to connect, grow, and heal, it is no wonder that memorials, more specifically funeral services have transformed into such intricate rituals that are essential to the human experience.

Throughout history, the “funeral service” has been used to help compartmentalize the reality of loss.
Historians have found evidence of funeral services at hominid species at burial sites going back as far as
300,000 years ago (1). Many animals, such as elephants, dolphins, primates, and even some bird species
have been observed to mourn their dead and even practice burial rituals (2). This goes to show that
mourning is an important part of the grieving process and, even at the most primitive and animalistic,
gives us as creatures of this earth a way to say goodbye.

Acceptance

The world will continue to revolve, and people will go about their days not knowing that you have lost a loved one. It may take a while to come to the realization that, after a loss, we will also need to return to going about our daily lives. Before this, it is important to take the time to slow down and remember the loss, especially when the world has trained us to keep moving.

A funeral service sets time aside specifically for mourning. It allows us to pause and have others pause with us. To put all other worries aside for just one moment, together, to start to heal and reconnect.

Recollection

The best way to remember our loved one is through the sharing of memories. Memories can be so powerful. They bring with them emotions you may not even realize you can feel at the time; a
smile, a laugh, comfort. Being able to bring people together to share those memories not only gives us
the opportunity to recall events that we may have forgotten, but it also provides the opportunity to hear
untold stories from family and friends. To hear a story about a parent’s childhood, perhaps from a
distant relative or friend, can be a wonderful and heart-warming experience. A memorial service creates a place and time where people can come together to share these memories.

Support

Many times, family and friends will see a loved one who has suffered a loss and be unsure on how to approach them to offer aid. They may want to help but can never find the appropriate time to do so. This is also very common on the reverse side. We may be hesitant to ask for help when we suffer a loss. Be it from pride, fear, or doubt, letting others know when you need help can be difficult. A funeral service gives friends and family a time and place to offer their aid. That support and aid can take many shapes: donation, emotional, or physical support. Memorials, Funerals, and Celebrations of Life
have the means of providing many of the supports that help with the grieving process.

Purpose

During a funeral service, it is common to talk about a loved one’s life. From birth to school, from
school to work, from work to family, these events make us who we are as human beings. Funeral services give family and friends an opportunity to attribute these life events and contributions into purpose and meaning. The memories that we have and the stories that we share let us know that the life that was lived, was lived well.

Transcendence

Many religions view a funeral service as a way to get closer to their creator and join them in
the afterlife. Moreover, some faiths view a funeral as necessary in order to move on from this world to
the next. Memorials give us the opportunity to come to terms with the loss that we have experienced.
They help us process that our loss is real and that those that we love have moved on to something
better.

“How do you deal with the death of a great person who doesn’t believe in Heaven? You want to know
that they went to a better place if there is none?”
“Well, if they were truly great, then the world is a little worse off without them. So technically, they are
in a better place by default.” -Kris Wilson

In a time of grief and loss, the warmth, comfort, and familiarity of a family-owned funeral home can be invaluable. Malesich & Shirey, a trusted name in funeral services, epitomizes the distinctive advantages that come with opting for a family-owned establishment over a bank-owned entity. Below, we shed light on the unmatched benefits of choosing a family-run funeral home and why it often emerges as the more compassionate and personalized choice.

1. Personalized Service and Genuine Empathy

Family-owned funeral homes, like Malesich & Shirey, have been passed down through generations, carrying with them the legacy, traditions, and values that the founding members instilled. When you walk through their doors, you’re not just another client; you’re an extension of their family. This bond ensures you receive personalized services tailored to your unique needs and preferences. A bank-owned funeral home, driven primarily by profits, may not provide the same depth of personal attention.

2. Deep-rooted Community Ties

Families behind establishments like Malesich & Shirey have often lived in the community for decades, if not longer. Their long-standing presence fosters a deep understanding of local traditions, cultures, and customs. Such familiarity ensures that the funeral rites and ceremonies are both respectful and relevant to the bereaved family’s background. When looking for funeral homes, you’ll find that Malesich & Shirey is one of the few family-owned operations in Colorado.

3. Flexibility in Services

The corporate structure of bank-owned funeral homes can sometimes be restrictive, adhering strictly to set packages and services. In contrast, family-owned homes are more adaptable. They understand that every individual and family is unique, and thus, they are more willing to accommodate special requests, ceremonies, or traditions that hold sentimental value.

4. Transparent Pricing

Being community-centric, family-owned funeral homes prioritize transparency and honesty in their dealings. Malesich & Shirey, for instance, values the trust families place in them, ensuring clear and upfront pricing without any hidden fees. Bank-owned establishments, on the other hand, might have multiple layers of management and stakeholders to satisfy, potentially leading to less clarity in their pricing structures.

5. Continuity and Familiar Faces of a Family-Owned Funeral Home

One of the comforting aspects of family-owned funeral homes is the consistency in staff. Every time you interact with Malesich & Shirey, you’re likely to see familiar faces, individuals who remember your family’s history, and past interactions. This continuity offers a sense of comfort and trust, something that’s crucial during trying times.

6. Preservation of Traditions

Family-owned homes are often keepers of time-honored traditions. They remember how services were conducted for your grandparents, parents, or other family members and can replicate or adapt them as per current needs. This respect for history and tradition provides a sense of continuity and respect for the departed.

7. No Involvement of Third Parties

One of the profound assurances that Malesich & Shirey provides is the commitment to keeping your loved one within their care throughout the entire process. Unlike other establishments that might involve third parties for various services, Malesich & Shirey ensures that a client’s body never leaves our care. This direct care not only guarantees the utmost respect and dignity for the departed but also offers peace of mind to families, knowing that their loved ones are in safe, compassionate hands at all times.

8. Quick Decision Making

The absence of a sprawling corporate hierarchy in family-owned establishments ensures quicker decisions. Whether it’s a last-minute change in arrangements or an urgent request, establishments like Malesich & Shirey can respond promptly, making the entire process smoother and less stressful.

The Drawbacks of Bank-Owned Funeral Homes

While bank-owned funeral homes have their advantages, there are certain drawbacks worth considering:

• Profit Driven: The primary goal of bank-owned funeral homes often centers on profit margins, potentially compromising the personal touch and individualized care.
• Less Personalization: Corporate structures can be rigid, leading to standardized services that might not cater to individual needs or special requests.
• Impersonal Interactions: Larger, bank-owned entities may lack the familiar faces and personal relationships that family-run establishments boast, potentially making interactions feel cold or transactional.
• Potential for Hidden Costs: The commercial nature of bank-owned funeral homes may lead to hidden costs or fees that aren’t immediately transparent.

In Conclusion

The choice of a funeral home is deeply personal. While both family-owned and bank-owned funeral homes have their place in the industry, the former offers an unparalleled blend of personalization, empathy, and community-centric values. Malesich & Shirey stands as a testament to the myriad benefits of choosing a family-owned funeral home, ensuring that in your hour of need, you are treated with the warmth, respect, and compassion that only a family can provide. When looking at funeral home options, don’t hesitate to ask if they are family or bank-owned, and ensure that your loved one is given the best possible care.

Understanding the complex, interrelated relationship between grief and addiction is crucial, not only for those personally affected but also for mental health professionals, family members, and society as a whole. As uniquely challenging experiences, grief and addiction often intertwine, each potentially exacerbating the intensity of the other and creating a feedback loop of pain and vulnerability that can be devastating for those ensnared within it.

Grief Fuelling Addiction

At its core, grief is a profound emotional response to loss, typically associated with death but can extend to any significant life change or loss, such as the end of a relationship, losing a job, or experiencing severe illness. Grief can trigger a myriad of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, fear, and even relief. It often instigates a cascade of physiological responses, such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and an increased vulnerability to physical illnesses.

Addiction, on the other hand, is a disease characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. People with addiction (severe substance use disorder) have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s), such as alcohol or drugs, to the point where it takes over their life.

Grief leads to addiction in several ways:

1. Self-Medication: Bereaved individuals may turn to substances to numb their pain or momentarily escape from the reality of their loss. These substances can be anything from alcohol and recreational drugs to prescription medications.
2. Grief-Related Stress: Chronic stress from unresolved grief can lead to increased substance use. Stress hormones can heighten the pleasurable effects of drugs and alcohol, making them more appealing during times of distress.
3. Social Isolation: Grief often leads to social isolation, as individuals retreat from their regular activities and connections. Isolation can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression, conditions that are known risk factors for substance use disorders.

Grief and Addiction: A Vicious Cycle

Addicts particularly suffer in the grief process for numerous reasons:

1. Impaired Coping Mechanisms: Those suffering from addiction often struggle with impaired emotional and stress-coping mechanisms, making it harder for them to navigate the intense emotions associated with grief.
2. Guilt and Self-Blame: Addicted individuals may struggle with feelings of guilt and self-blame related to their addiction, which can intensify the grief they experience after a loss. They might blame themselves for not being ‘present’ or ‘sober’ during their loved one’s final moments, for instance.
3. Relapse Triggers: The stress and emotional turmoil of grief can trigger relapse in those with previous substance use disorders. A relapse can further complicate the grief process, adding feelings of failure and hopelessness.
4. Stigma and Isolation: Grieving addicts often face societal stigma and isolation due to their addiction. This can limit their access to support and resources during the grieving process, leaving them feeling alone and misunderstood.

Interventions and Healing

Understanding the complex interplay between grief and addiction is vital for providing effective support and treatment. Grieving individuals at risk of addiction, or those with existing substance use disorders, require integrated care that addresses both issues simultaneously.

Bereavement counseling, peer support groups, cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, and other psychotherapeutic approaches can help individuals navigate their grief healthily. Similarly, treatments for addiction such as medically-assisted treatment (MAT), 12-step programs, and individual counseling can be invaluable for those grappling with substance use disorders.

Encouragingly, some treatment centers specialize in dual-diagnosis treatment, catering to those who are simultaneously dealing with grief and addiction. These facilities understand the unique challenges faced by this population and are equipped to offer comprehensive, compassionate care.

In conclusion, grief and addiction often interweave in a complex dance of pain and struggle. Recognizing this intricate relationship can lead to more effective interventions, greater empathy, and ultimately, healing for those affected by these twin afflictions. More research, public awareness, and integrated healthcare services are required to fully address this poignant intersection of human suffering.

Flowers have been a crucial part of funeral traditions across cultures, providing a poignant way to express feelings that words often fail to encapsulate. At Malesich & Shirey Funeral Home, we understand the significance of funeral flowers, offering a wide range of floral tributes to help families commemorate their loved ones. From classic casket sprays to bespoke arrangements, our experienced team is here to guide you through this important aspect of funeral planning.

The Importance of Funeral Flowers

Funeral flowers are more than just a decorative element; they represent a multitude of emotions, from love and respect to grief and sympathy. They also offer a visual tribute to the deceased, bringing a sense of comfort and tranquility to the funeral service. At Malesich & Shirey, we believe in the power of funeral flowers to bring solace, aiding in the healing process as you navigate through this challenging time.

Bespoke Funeral Flower Arrangements

Every life is unique, and so should be the tribute. That’s why Malesich & Shirey offers bespoke flower arrangements that can be customized to reflect the personality and preferences of the departed. We make it a priority to take the time to understand your loved one’s story and create a floral arrangement that embody their spirit. Whether it’s incorporating their favorite flowers, colors, or creating designs that symbolize their hobbies or passions, we ensure your floral tribute is truly unique and personal.

Wide Variety of Funeral Flowers

Malesich & Shirey provides an extensive selection of funeral flowers, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. Our offerings include, but are not limited to, casket sprays, standing sprays, wreaths, and table arrangements. We also offer different flowers like roses, lilies, orchids, carnations, and more, each carrying its unique symbolism in the context of funerals. For instance, lilies represent restored innocence of the soul of the deceased, while roses symbolize love and respect.

Seasonal Funeral Flowers

At Malesich & Shirey, we also recommend considering the season while selecting funeral flowers. Seasonal flowers not only ensure the freshness and vibrancy of the arrangements but also make a beautiful homage to the time of year your loved one passed away. From vivid summer blooms to the gentle hues of winter flowers, our florists can guide you in selecting the perfect seasonal tribute.

Delivery and Set-Up of Funeral Flowers

We understand that planning a funeral can be a stressful process. That’s why, at Malesich & Shirey, we handle the delivery and set-up of your funeral flowers, allowing you to focus on commemorating your loved one. Our team ensures that the floral arrangements are carefully transported and elegantly displayed, adding to the overall aesthetics and emotional ambiance of the service.

Malesich & Shirey – Your Trusted Funeral Flower Provider

Choosing Malesich & Shirey means opting for a dedicated and compassionate approach towards funeral flower arrangements. With our experience, we have mastered the art of creating meaningful and stunning floral tributes that truly honor the life of the departed.

Navigating through grief is a complex journey. Let Malesich & Shirey assist in this small but significant aspect of saying farewell. Trust us to provide funeral flowers that not only convey your deepest sentiments but also celebrate the life of your loved one in the most beautiful and respectful way.

Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience that every family has to go through at some point in their lives. During such a difficult time, the last thing you want is the additional stress of organizing a funeral. That’s where a funeral home comes in to assist you in planning a proper and respectful send-off for your dearly departed. In this article, we will discuss the crucial factors to consider when selecting the right funeral home to cater to your family’s unique needs and preferences.

Location

The first consideration when selecting a funeral home should be its location. Ideally, you want to choose a funeral home that is conveniently situated for family and friends to attend the services. This may mean selecting a funeral home close to your loved one’s community or one that is centrally located for ease of access. A well-located funeral home will make it easier for attendees to pay their respects and offer their condolences without having to travel long distances.

Reputation

The reputation of a funeral home is essential in ensuring you receive the best possible service during this sensitive time. Conducting an online search and reading each funeral home’s corresponding reviews can be a great place to start. A funeral home with a solid reputation will give you peace of mind, knowing that they will handle your loved one’s final arrangements with care and respect.

Services and Personalization Options

Different funeral homes offer varying levels of services and personalization options to cater to individual family preferences. When selecting a funeral home, ensure that they provide the specific services you require, such as traditional burial or cremation, and can accommodate any cultural or religious customs your family observes.

Also, look for a funeral home that offers personalization options, such as creating customized memorial videos or incorporating meaningful symbols into the service. These personal touches can make the funeral more meaningful and reflective of your loved one’s life and personality.

Pricing

The cost of funeral services can vary significantly between funeral homes. Read a detailed price list from each funeral home you are considering to compare costs and ensure you are getting a fair and transparent price. Keep in mind that the least expensive option may not always be the best choice. Instead, focus on finding a funeral home that offers the services you need at a reasonable and competitive price.

Staff and Customer Service

The staff at a funeral home play a significant role in the overall experience. During a preliminary visit, observe the staff’s professionalism, empathy, and attention to detail. You want to work with a team that is compassionate, understanding, and genuinely committed to helping you create a memorable and fitting tribute for your loved one. Make sure to ask any questions you may have and observe how the staff responds to your inquiries. Their willingness to help and provide clear explanations will indicate the level of customer service you can expect throughout the process.

Selecting the right funeral home is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your family’s experience during a challenging time. By considering factors such as location, reputation, services, pricing, facilities, and staff, you can make an informed decision that will help you honor your loved one’s memory in the best possible way.

Remember, you deserve a funeral home that treats you with the utmost care and respect.

How to Ease Your Loved Ones’ Burden

When a loved one passes away, it can be an overwhelming and stressful time. Making funeral arrangements can add to the stress and confusion, especially if your loved one did not express their final wishes. Funeral pre-planning is an essential step to take to ease the burden on your loved ones during this difficult time.

What is funeral pre-planning?

Funeral pre-planning is the process of making arrangements for your funeral ahead of time. It involves selecting a funeral home, choosing burial or cremation, deciding on a casket or urn, and other details. By planning ahead, you can ensure that your final wishes are met and your loved ones don’t have to make difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Why is funeral pre-planning important?

Pre-planning your funeral has several benefits, including:

1. Peace of mind: By pre-planning, you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your final wishes will be carried out.
2. Financial benefits: Pre-paying for your funeral can help ease the financial burden on your loved ones.
3. Reduced stress: By making arrangements ahead of time, your loved ones won’t have to worry about making difficult decisions during a time of grief.
4. Personalization: Pre-planning allows you to personalize your funeral service and create a meaningful celebration of your life.

How to pre-plan a funeral

If you’re considering pre-planning your funeral, here are some steps to take:

1. Research funeral homes in your area and choose one that you feel comfortable with.
2. Decide on burial or cremation and choose a casket or urn.
3. Select any additional services you want, such as a memorial service, visitation, or graveside service.
4. Pre-pay for your funeral if you can, or create a plan for your loved ones to follow.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your final wishes are met and your loved ones are not left with difficult decisions and financial burdens.

Conclusion

Funeral pre-planning is an essential step to take to ease the burden on your loved ones during a difficult time. By planning ahead, you can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your final wishes will be carried out, reduce stress on your loved ones, and create a meaningful celebration of your life. If you’re considering pre-planning your funeral, take the time to research your options and choose a plan that meets your needs and budget.

At Malesich and Shirey Colorado Crematory, we are here for you during this difficult time. As you preplan, read our preplanning checklist to ensure you’re prepared and view our online catalog of grief support services, such as GriefShare, for support.