May 16, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
by Heath Carroll
Practical Stand Points
Most people do not like to be rushed into making purchasing decisions, especially when they involve important matters. For this reason alone, each of us has an obligation to spare our families the added responsibility of making important decisions surrounding our demise by taking funeral planning into our own hands. By pre-planning, you have the advantage of comparing the costs of goods and services without feeling pressured. Moreover, you get to set the tone and tenor of your funeral by working closely with a funeral director who shares your concerns. While it is certainly possible for surviving members of your family to plan your funeral and burial on short notice, why not relieve them of it Pre-planning relieves surviving family members of the emotional burden that comes along with funeral arrangement decisions by reducing stress, anxiety and confusion at an already emotional time. CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES is ready and willing to assist you in pre-planning a personalized service of remembrance. You and your family will have time to research your options and make well-informed decisions, without feeling rushed. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477.
You remember your loved one we’ll remember the rest.
www.carroll-lewellen.com
May 9, 2012
What You Should Know
by Heath Carroll
REGRETS
When palliative-care specialist and writer Bronnie Ware recently chronicled the regrets of her dying patients, there were some common themes. The regret most frequently cited involved the wish to have had the courage to live a
life that was true to one’s self and not what was expected by others. The second most common regret involved wishing that the person hadn’t worked so hard. This regret emerged from the lips of every dying male patient. Next, the dying wished that they had the courage to express their feelings, which was followed
by the wish that they had stayed in touch with friends. Finally, many regretted
that they hadn’t allowed themselves to be happier. Words to live by?
At CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES we take great
pride in what we do. Our purpose is to provide a peaceful and comforting
environment where people can gather to honor a loved one. We offer personalized and affordable services and products. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. or call us at (303)776-4477.
We help families make wellplanned preparations in their time of need.
You remember your loved one we’ll remember the rest.
www.carroll-lewellen.com
May 2, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
While the increasing popularity of cremation may have its roots in both spiritual and environmental concerns, a survey conducted by the Funeral and Memorial
Information Council also shows that one-third of those choosing cremation indicate that cost is a factor. A decade ago, only 19 percent of survey respondents
said that cost was a primary factor in their decision to choose cremation. While the decision to choose cremation may have once
been guided by the absence of family plots or geographically scattered families, today’s choice of cremation may be more likely
to be prompted by financial concerns. We have multiple options for traditional burial. If cost is your main reason for choosing cremation contact us for
affordable burial options. Cremation does not prevent family and friends from sharing in the traditions and ceremonies of a funeral service. Often times
the only difference between a funeral celebration followed by a burial and one followed by cremation, is that the body is taken to the crematory after the
services and then the urn is taken to the cemetery.
Please feel free to visit CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate
to contact us at (303)776-4477. We are committed to providing you and your family with an unparalleled level of service and attention to detail
“You remember your loved one we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
April 27, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
AN END-OF-LIFE REVOLUTION?
Baby Boomers have exerted their considerable influence on various aspects of American culture as they have moved their way through life. Now, as many approach the end of their lives, they may be on the verge of significantly shifting the thinking that surrounds death and burial. One needs to look no further than the wider acceptance of cremation to see evidence of a change in the way that many are choosing to plan for death. Others are taking an
eco-friendly approach that encompasses a wide array of “green” practices, ranging from using biodegradable coffins to burial in “green” cemeteries.
While these practices may not be for everybody, they are fast gaining ground.
When a death occurs, family and friends gather to celebrate a life that has been lived and to share memories.
CARROLL LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES is ready and willing to assist you in planning a personalized service of remembrance. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477. We have a reputation for service built on excellence, kindness, and personalized caring attention.
“I know death hath ten thousand several doors/For men to take their exit.”
John Webster
You remember your loved one we’ll remember the rest.
www.carroll-lewellen.com
April 17, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
AN END-OF-LIFE REVOLUTION?
Baby Boomers have exerted their considerable influence on various aspects of American culture as they have moved their way through life. Now, as many approach the end of their lives, they may be on the verge of significantly shifting the thinking that surrounds death and burial. One needs to look no further than the wider acceptance of cremation to see evidence of a change in the way that many are choosing to plan for death. Others are taking an eco-friendly approach that encompasses a wide array of “green” practices, ranging from using biodegradable coffins to burial in “green” cemeteries.
While these practices may not be for everybody, they are fast gaining ground.
When a death occurs, family and friends gather to celebrate a life that has been lived and to share memories. CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES is ready and willing to assist you in planning a personalized service of remembrance. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477. We have
a reputation for service built on excellence, kindness, and personalized caring attention. “I know death hath ten thousand several doors/For men to take their exit.” John Webster You remember your loved one we’ll remember the rest.
www.carroll-lewellen.com
March 14, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
ENDURING STRENGTH
Friedrich Nietzsche is credited with having said, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” Thoughts like this come to mind in the face of great hardship and emotional challenge, and make us wonder if we will indeed emerge stronger after undergoing extreme duress. The answer seems to be “yes,” according to research that involved nearly 2,000 interviews with people who had undergone a life-altering event such as the death of a parent or a natural disaster. Those who faced such adversities generally said that they were happier afterward and tougher in a good way. They developed new coping strategies, identified important members of their social network, and felt more competent. In time, their feelings of well-being were restored.
The death of a loved one is always traumatic. A single call to us will help ease the confusing and overwhelming events at the time of death. The services we provide are tailored to your needs and desires. CARROLL- LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES is designed for your comfort, and we will do whatever is necessary to give you the most meaningful service. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. or call us at (303)776-4477. Our staff will help you every step of the way.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
February 22, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
SETTING THE TONE
There has been a subtle shift in the tone of funerals in recent years, away from mournful toward more celebratory occasions. Much of this change can be attributed to preplanning, which enables individuals to dictate the details surrounding their own passing. By assigning themselves the responsibility of planning their own funerals and not burdening their families with the task, pre-planners are better able to frame the “event” in their own terms. Many see it as a chance to emphasize various aspects of their lives that made them unique. For instance, jazz lovers may opt for a jazz ensemble to play at their funerals; others may plan for friends and family to attend a post-funeral dinner celebration. The possibilities are endless.
Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice. Pre- planning provides you with the time needed to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste and budget. Please allow one of our staff members the opportunity to answer any questions you may have by visiting CARROLL- LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES at 503 Terry St. or contact us at (303)776-4477. Making your wishes known ahead of time can provide you with real peace of mind. Pre-need planning is a simple and thoughtful thing to do.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
February 15, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
ATTENDING RELIGIOUS SERVICES HEIGHTENS OPTIMISM
An analysis of the religious practices and health of over 93,000 women between the ages of 50 and 79 reveals what many of us already knew— that is, regular attendance at religious services encourages people to be more optimistic. To place a number on it, people who attended services more than once a week in the previous month were found to be 56% more likely to be above the median score in a measure of optimism than non-attendees. This finding backs up previous research showing that religious participation promotes both physical and mental well- being by relieving stress, creating meaningful social interactions, and helping curtail bad habits. Religious congregants tend to hold people in closer confidence than members of other groups.
CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES provides a place for family and friends to gather, pay tribute and to celebrate a life that has been lived. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477. We provide professional and compassionate services when you entrust us with the care of a loved one.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
January 1, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
by Heath Carroll
HONORING AND POLICE OFFICERS
Unfortunately, since the 9/11 attacks, a new generation of Americans has been
introduced to the tradition of honoring firefighters and police officers with the
playing of bagpipes at their funerals. For those who may wonder how this tradition
began, we have to look back to the 1840s, when Irish immigrants came to this
country in great numbers. They brought with them the Celtic tradition (which
includes both the Irish and Scottish cultures) of playing bagpipes at funerals. When
police and firefighters of Irish descent died in the line of duty, which was an
all-too-common occurrence, they were honored with the playing of bagpipes. Over the
years, the tradition spread to police and firefighters who are not of Irish descent.
C A R RO L L – L E W E L L E N FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES honors military,
police, and firemen for their call to serve. Please allow one of our staff members
the opportunity to answer any questions you may have by visiting our home at 503
Terry St. or contact us at (303)776-4477. We will work with you to help plan a
funeral, memorial service or gathering that reflects your family’s wishes and honors
the life of the person who was so special to you.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
January 25, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
by Heath Carroll
THE GIFT OF LIFE
One of the more immediate concerns following the death of a relatively young and healthy person (in particular) is the question of organ donation. Usually, people who have it in mind to make this precious gift make advance arrangements. It should be pointed out, however, that even if a person has signed a donor card or has otherwise made his or her instructions clear, many hospitals will not act without the written permission of a spouse or close family member. This is a family decision that does not come under the executor’s
authority. With this in mind, those wishing to donate their organs after death should make their intentions known so that family members will know to honor their wishes.
If you wish to become an organ donor, make sure that your family and friends are aware of your wishes and willing to uphold them after death. At CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES our staff members are knowledgeable professionals who can provide emotional support, compassionate guidance, and much of the information you need. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
January 11, 2012
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
by Heath Carroll
IMPORTANT KEEPSAKES
Cremation keepsake jewelry is often worn by the family and friends of a deceased loved one as a lasting tribute. It allows wearers to keep a part of their beloved departed close to them every day. Pendants, rings, and bracelets of this type are somewhat similar to “mourning jewelry,” which reached its peak of popularity in Victorian England in the latter half of the 19th century. In this country, during the Civil War, “jet” (a variety of fossilized coal) was preferred by those wearing mourning jewelry. In later stages of mourning, gold and human hair were incorporated into mourning jewelry. Taking a lock of hair and weaving it into jewelry started as a simple way to keep the departed close.
A unique way to memorialize your loved one is by placing a small amount of ashes inside cremation jewelry to carry close to your heart at all times. At CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES our staff members are experienced professionals who can provide emotional support, compassionate guidance, and much of the information you need. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St. and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
January 4, 2011
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
by Heath Carroll
While there is nothing any of us can do to alter the inevitability of death, we are all able to direct the manner in which our own will be handled. With this in mind, responsible individuals take it upon themselves to plan, their own funerals and make their burial or cremation preferences known in advance. In this sense, funeral planning is seen as an extension of will preparation and estate planning. In both cases, there is no one who can better represent the wishes of the deceased than the person most directly involved. Why would anyone leave funeral planning to others when the person in the best position to know and assume responsibility is the one whom destiny has chosen? When you make arrangements in advance you have an opportunity to make informed decisions.
C A R R O L L – L E W E L L E N FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES can provide advice on preplanning and prepaying. Please feel free to visit our home at 503 Terry St and if a question arises, do not hesitate to contact us at (303)776-4477. Our funeral home takes pride in providing you personal attention and individual service. You can count on us to be a source of caring and comfort.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
December 14, 2011
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
FOLLOWING THE RULES
In light of the fact that funerals can cost thousands of dollars, it should come as a measure of comfort to some that there are federal regulations in place to protect consumers. The Funeral Rule, which is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, makes it easier for consumers to choose only those goods and services they want or need and to pay only for those they select when it comes to making arrangements either pre-need or at the time of need. This set of enforced practices and standards is particularly welcome by local, family-owned funeral homes, who have established a reputation in the community for compassion and understanding that our neighbors have come to expect of us.
Grief is an unavoidable and normal experience. Our goal is to bring hope and peace-of-mind together, by helping you to celebrate life, and love. CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES is here to help families come to terms with loss. Please allow one of our staff members the opportunity to answer any questions you may have by visiting our home at 503 Terry St. or contacting us at (303)776-4477.
“You remember your loved one we’ll remember the rest.”
www.carroll-lewellen.com
November 30, 2011
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BY HEATH CARROLL
A SENSE OF OCCASION
As a ceremony that sanctifies, celebrates, and remembers the life of one who has died, a funeral merits all the attention that any life-altering occasion would receive. To this end, a funeral should be a deeply personal affair that reflects the deceased’s religious and cultural traditions and individual personal preferences. All this can be achieved with the help of a funeral director, who can help preplan such aspects of a funeral as casket selection, body presentation, and the manner and form of remembrance. Without such directives in place, surviving members will be forced to make important decisions under great duress. Funeral preplanning takes much of the anxiety out of an event that may seem to arrive with little notice.
The funeral is an observance for those who mourn. It provides an opportunity for the survivors and others who share in the loss to express their love, grief and appreciation for a life that has been lived. It allows those who grieve to face openly and realistically the crisis a death presents.
CARROLLLEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES can guide you through the many options and issues to help you settle on the arrangements that best meet your needs. As always if you need absolutely anything, please feel free tovisit our home at 503 Terry St. or call us at (303)776-4477.
“You remember your loved one-we’ll remember the rest.”
www.foothillsgardensofmemory.com
November 23, 2011
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
BY HEATH CARROLL
FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
Life poses no more curious a riddle than its termination. This natural and inevitable event may arouse thoughts that can complicate life with fear and anxiety about the unknown. Yet, there remains the practical consideration of carrying out the earthly decisions surrounding life’s final chapter. With so much that we don’t know about death, most of us find it comforting to exert a degree of control about what we do know. In the weeks and months that follow, we will provide our readers with enough information to make end-of- life decisions that will enable them to meet death on their own terms. It is our earnest hope that the information and insights we offer will provide comfort to those most in need of it.
At CARROLL-LEWELLEN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES,
our compassionate staff is here for you, 24 hours a day, whenever you need us. We serve all faiths. We support our troops, and offer a discount to veterans. If you choose to have a service, it will include a complimentary video or slide presentation of the deceased.
To learn more about us, call us at 303-776-4477.
You are invited to visit us at 503 Terry Street.
One location for all your funeral & cemetery needs.
“You remember your loved one, we’ll remember the rest.” www.carroll-lewellen.com