Columnists

Witnessing Cremation

Issue 38.17

Fifty-four years ago, I had the opportunity to witness an open cremation on a Native American Indian reservation in southern Arizona. Open cremation was the tribal custom, and, to say the least, it was an interesting experience. At that time, I never would have imagined that I would later become an owner of […]

Serenity Funeral Home and the Olympic Spirit

Issue 34.16

For the past few weeks, we have had the opportunity to look away from scenes of racial division and political drama and instead focus our attention on the Olympic Games in Rio. Athletes from around the world have gathered to compete with the indomitable Olympic spirit that began in Greece in 776 B.C. […]

Witnessing Cremation

Issue 12.16

Fifty-four years ago, I had the opportunity to witness an open cremation on a Native American Indian reservation in southern Arizona. Open cremation was the tribal custom, and, to say the least, it was an interesting experience. At that time, I never would have imagined that I would later become an owner of […]

Why Are Funerals So Expensive?

Issue 9.14

A funeral can be an expensive endeavor. The price of a funeral is driven by three major costs: professional services, merchandise, and cemetery expenses.

The professional services charge is the basic overhead charge of the funeral home. It covers the services of the funeral director and secretarial staff, the preparation and filing of […]

Witnessing Cremation

Issue 41.13

Fifty-two years ago, I had the opportunity to witness an open cremation on a Native American Indian reservation in southern Arizona. Open cremation was the tribal custom, and, to say the least, it was an interesting experience. At that time, I never would have imagined that I would later become an owner of […]