Funerals have changed greatly over the thirty years that we have been serving the Parkland district. There is no longer such a thing as a “standard funeral”. In fact, just like there are no two people alike, there are now no two funerals alike. We pride ourselves on helping families personalize the funeral service to represent the life of the family member they have lost.

Have you ever heard some say “when I die, I just want to be cremated- nothing fancy”? Many people believe that there are only two options that exist- a funeral with a casket, or cremation. We have witnessed families trying to abide by the wishes of their loved one prevent themselves from arranging a funeral that would have helped them heal.

At Nairn-Chyz Funeral Home, we believe that while funerals are in honour of someone who has passed away, and a way of marking their passing they are of greater importance to the living. It is possible to respect the wishes of the deceased for simplicity while still providing an option to honour this person and celebrate the life that they lived. When meeting with families we take time to explore all options. “Keeping it simple” need not prevent family and friends from gathering to mark the passing of a loved one.

There are many options available that range from a “full traditional” funeral with a casket or urn, to a simple social gathering without a casket or urn present. This gathering can occur anywhere from a church or community hall to the family’s farm or a favourite park. Whatever the type of funeral or gathering- there is no denying the importance of gathering with family and friends to celebrate the life of someone we love that is no longer with us. There is great strength to be gained from family and friends to help us heal.

“People who have learned how to care tenderly for the bodies of the dead are almost surely people who also know how to show mercy to the bodies of the living”

This is a guiding principle for us.  We believe in opening our minds to opportunities to serve. We believe that we can help every family find the option to carry out their loved one’s wishes, while arranging a tribute that can help them start to heal.