Debunking Myths on Embalming & Cremation
In this episode, Amber and Pete delve into the world of embalming and cremation myths. They discuss the fate of jewelry, metallic teeth fillings, and implants during these processes, debunking misconceptions along the way. From how embalming doesn’t grant permanence or produce odors to debunking the myth that remains are directly set on flames during […]
The Price of Saying Goodbye: Insights from a Funeral Director
In this month’s episode, Amber and Pete explore the often-misunderstood topic of funeral costs and the crucial role of funeral directors in managing the intricacies of the funeral process. They discuss the perception of families regarding the costs and how funeral directors handle this sensitive issue. Amber provides insights into the professional needs that contribute […]
Sacred Grounds: Unveiling the Significance of Cemeteries in the Grief Process
In this episode, Pete and Amber are joined by Mike Miller of the Willow River Cemetery in Hudson, WI. Mike shares his personal journey, recalling how his fascination with the cemetery began when he worked there as a 15-year-old summer job worker. As the discussion unfolds, Mike opens up about the challenges and rewards of […]
Carrying the Load: Roles of Pallbearers
In this episode, host Pete Waggoner and Amber Miller of O’Connell Family Funeral Homes discuss the role of pallbearers in funeral services. They explain the origin of the term “pallbearer” and its evolution to refer to individuals carrying the casket during a funeral procession. The hosts explore the process of choosing casket bearers, including age […]
O’Connell Family Funeral Homes merge St. Croix and Pierce County locations to better serve local communities
To better accommodate Western Wisconsin communities, specifically Pierce County, as well as to offer a complete range of grief services, the locally owned and operated O’Connell Family Funeral Homes are merging their St. Croix and Pierce County locations in Hudson, Baldwin, Ellsworth, Prescott, and River Falls. The Pierce County funeral homes, previously owned by Tom […]
Are you thinking of cremation?
Let’s delve into some of the facts and unknown parts of the cremation process. Cremation is the process in which a body is reduced through the process of combustion and heat, leaving elements that are commonly called cremains or ashes. The cremation process typically takes about three hours from start to finish with optimal temperatures […]
How did they die?
Imagine you’ve just gotten an important phone call from a friend that one of your favorite coworkers just died. You’re in disbelief. You just talked to them! What happened?? No one seems to know. It is a heartbreaking situation, and you don’t want to sound insensitive, but you want to know what happened. You check […]
Farewell Flag Ceremony offered by O’Connells
Farewell flag ceremonyThe O’Connell Family Funeral Homes, which includes our onsite Countryside Crematory, continues their veteran and United States flag honor with their Farewell Flag Act of Reverence. A meaningful and unique way to honor those who servedFamilies of veterans are seeking meaningful and unique ways to create a lasting memorial tribute to their loved one. […]
We are not very religious and just want to be cremated. What do we do now?
Funerals and cremation. Funerals and cremation have changed tremendously in the past 10 years. Most of the changes have come as a result of families not wanting the “traditional ritualistic” funeral. Families want to make their loved ones funeral personal. The O’Connell Family Funeral Home staff has played an integral role in this evolution and […]
Buy from your local flower shop.
Buy from your local flower shop. When it comes to getting flowers for your loved ones, it seems like ordering online will save you a few bucks. But in the end, you will be more satisfied with flowers purchased from a local flower shop. Time and time again, we see boxes of flowers left outside […]
Have The Talk Of A Lifetime
An individual’s story – memories made, principles and lessons learned – is a gift that should be shared with family and friends. O’Connell Family Funeral Homes, in conjunction with the Funeral and Memorial Information Council (FAMIC) has launched Have the Talk of a Lifetime, an awareness and education initiative to help families have important conversations […]
What are your options for scattering cremains?
Scattering Ashes: What You Need to Know Scattering ashes, also called cremated remains, is a popular choice when a person or family chooses cremation. If you’re seeking answers on what you can do with the ashes, look no further than the O’Connell Family Funeral Home. Below you can find guidelines about what you can do with the […]
