We are mourning my dear father-in-law who passed last Friday. He had 8 grandchildren ages 7-16 whom he adored. The funeral home we chose offers a lovely ceremony that the children take part in. There was one big Gund bear and 8 smaller ones arranged in the casket with grandpa. The day of the funeral before the other mourners arrive, the grandchildren gathered in front of the casket. The big bear was presented to the first child. The grandchild shared a favorite memory of Grandpa, hugged and kissed the bear, and passed it to the next child, til each child had his or her turn. Then the big bear was placed with Grandpa to stay with him for eternity, and each of the children was given one of the smaller versions. It was extremely emotional and moving. Each of the children says that the ceremony helped them feel better. The bears have barely been put down since. Thought I would share this in case anyone else finds themselves in similar circumstance with grieving children.

What a beautiful gesture.

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Mom to 3 - one with 2 legs and 2with 4!

What a sweet memory of Granpa stories

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People that hate cats will come back as mice in their next life. - Faith Resnick

I have never heard of such a presentation, but what a wonderful, interactive thing to do with children to help them understand and grieve. It surely helped them feel a little better over such a sad ocassion.

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I don't suffer from insanity, I enjoy every minute of it!

What a wonderful thing to do! My mom works at a Funeral Home, and I read your post to her. She then put one of the owners on the phone so I could read it to her.

My mom is now researching prices on stuffed animals because they are going to offer this service as well.

That is awesome! I wish I had that idea a yr ago Feb 5 when DH's father died We are now facing the death of his mother so I will remember this when the time comes (even if I have to buy the bears myself). Thanks for posting!

Sorry about your FIL, mailady.
What a nice sounding ceremony though. Very touching.

That was so kind of you to share such a nice tribute to your father-in-law, Mailady. He sounds like he was very loved!

Hopefully my father-in-law will stick around a while longer (he's not so healthy, but we're hopeful). Incidentally, his name is Teddy, and the kids call him "Grandpa Teddy Bear."

I would love to adopt your idea for when the time might come. Thanks so much.

I'm so sorry to read of your loss, Mailady. What a wonderful touching way for kids to honor and remember their grandfather. Thank you for sharing this with us.

A big hug,

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Donna

That is so touching-thanks for sharing in your time of grief.