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| This section of our web site contains basic information on what to do when someone dies as well as how to plan and attend the services. |
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What to do when a death occurs
Many people are unsure what steps to take when a death occurs. The necessary steps usually depend on the location and circumstances. It is important that you understand what can be done, and we want to make sure that you have the necessary information required to make these important decisions. |
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Unanticipated death at home or elsewhere - In these situations, you should immediately contact 911; police and emergency medical personnel will then determine the appropriate steps to take. Generally, the authorities can release the remains directly to our home, so that preparations may begin. In some situations, however, the remains may need to be taken to the State Medical Examiner's office; this occurs when the cause of death may not yet be known or for local matters. |
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If death occurs in an Institution - Should the death occur at a hospital or care home (nursing/convalescent), the medical staff should handle all necessary legal steps. You simply need to inform the staff that Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care at (515) 292-Care (2273) is handling the arrangements. We will complete any legal release paperwork for you. |
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Anticipated death at home - Today, many people with terminal illnesses are more comfortable at home under the care of Hospice in the final stages of their illness. In this situation, you should inform Hospice that Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care at (515) 292-Care (2273) is the funeral home of your choice. Hospice will then supervise the necessary legal requirements. Often, when someone is faced with a terminal illness, the family will decide to make arrangements in advance - saving them the time and emotional decisions needed at the time of death. |
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Death out-of-state - If the death occurs out of state, you should call Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care at (515) 292-Care (2273). We can then coordinate the transfer with a funeral director at the place of death. Because we are members of several national organizations, we can often save families money by making all necessary arrangements with colleagues nationwide. |
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| This is a basic explanation of your options in certain circumstances. If you would like further or specific information about any situation, please feel free to contact us at (515) 292-Care (2273)or timgrandon4336@msn.com. We are here to help and to serve you, and we will be happy to answer any questions that you might have. |
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Planning and attending services
Planning the Viewing and Visitation - Our staff will help you plan a personalized and comforting viewing, and we are ready to answer any questions you have during the planning process. Here are a couple of basic guidelines to follow:
- For the deceased, choose clothing that your loved one liked and would have worn; it is not necessary to use a suit or dress.
- At the viewing, display photographs or special memorabilia that reflect the person's interest and hobbies, such as awards, musical instruments, fishing poles, golf clubs, quilts, artwork, uniforms, or an American flag on or in the casket.
- Bring a tape or CD of soothing music that is special to you or the deceased. We would be happy to play your music on our in-house sound system. We will, of course, provide soothing background music at no additional cost to you.
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What to Wear at a Visitation and Funeral
It is no longer necessary to wear only black or dark mourning clothes to a visitation and funeral. However, family and guests should wear presentable clothes. Men who don't want to wear a formal suit can wear pressed pants and a collared shirt. Hats and baseball caps should be left at the door. Women can wear a modest dress, pantsuit, or a combination skirt or slacks with a blouse or sweater. The color does not need to be black, but should be reserved and comforting.
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What to Do at a Visitation
Visitations can vary, depending upon the wishes of the family. However, here are some general guidelines to follow for most visitations.
For the family:
- Many families choose to have a receiving line to greet guests after they have paid their respects at the casket, urn or memorial display.
- Choose an order for the family that is comfortable and appropriate. In general, the order begins with the most immediate family member (such as a spouse, partner or children) and continues with parents, then siblings and their spouses.
- As visitors express their condolences, accept their good wishes, hugs and kisses. If you are overwhelmed, simply say thank you or just offer a small smile.
- If you feel tired during the visitation, please feel free to sit and rest or visit the powder room. Your guests will understand.
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For attendees:
- When you enter the funeral home, pay your respects to the deceased at the casket, urn or memorial display. It is acceptable to kneel and say a brief prayer at this time.
- Proceed through the receiving line and offer your condolences to each family member with a handshake hug or kiss, as appropriate. If there are many people waiting behind you in line, try to be brief so that everyone has a chance to visit with the family, if only for a few moments.
- You may leave immediately after the receiving line or visit with other attendees in the reception rooms. If you stay, be aware of the receiving line and make sure that guests just arriving have room to proceed through the line as you did.
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 Our mission is to provide exceptional and meaningful funeral service
experiences for the families we serve through teamwork, dedication
And professionalism, as well as to provide comprehensive bereavement
resources. We believe in being a full participant in our community and
we strive to treat all families equally with knowledge, empathy and the
compassion you would expect from a friend.
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| Serving families throughout central Iowa and Story County. Serving all families with the Care, Dignity and Respect you deserve. Your local hometown funeral care facility. |
