Welcome to Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service
Welcome to a place of solace and commemoration, where the staff at Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service understand the significance of saying a fitting farewell to your loved ones. Situated in the heart of DeWitt, IA, our home at 212 10th Circle provides a peaceful setting that honors the memories of those who have passed on. Our commitment is to deliver services that respect the wishes of the departed and offer comfort to the bereaved.
Table of Contents
- Welcome to Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service
- A Personal Touch in Your Time of Need
- Celebrating Lives with Dignified Services
- State-of-the-Art Facilities
- Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind
- Supportive Resources and Aftercare
- Guiding You Through the Legalities
- Connect With Us Anytime
- Choosing Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service
- Frequently Asked Questions
A Personal Touch in Your Time of Need
At Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service, we believe in the personal touch. Grieving families find shelter within our walls, gaining strength from our compassionate team who are dedicated to making the memorial process as seamless as possible. From the first call to the final goodbye, our trained professionals are here to guide you through the options available, ensuring that every detail is tailored to your family's preferences and cultural traditions.
Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service
Funeral Obiturary Search
Recent Funeral Home Obituaries
David Brian Yost - January 30, 1964 - June 03, 2021
Joyce Ann Zonick - April 28, 1947 - June 03, 2021
Sarah Ackerman - February 03, 1934 - April 25, 2021
E. James "Jim" Mertaugh - October 13, 1931 - February 02, 2021
William Henry Draeger, Jr. - March 06, 1924 - July 15, 2020
Daniel Frederick "DP" Passig - September 19, 1939 - June 24, 2020
Penny Johnson Carroll - April 11, 1941 - May 31, 2020
Nick "The Bear" Kinziger - December 16, 1943 - March 20, 2020
Celebrating Lives with Dignified Services
Our extensive range of services reflects our commitment to meet the needs of our community. Ackerman Funeral Directors offers traditional funerals, contemporary memorial services, and direct cremations. We support environmentally conscious choices with green burial options and are adept at incorporating personal elements to celebrate the unique life of your loved one. Our facility is equipped to accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger services, ensuring we can honor every individual's life story.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Our facilities at Ackerman have been carefully designed with your comfort in mind. Families can find solace within our tastefully decorated viewing and ceremony rooms, which provide a serene backdrop for reflection and remembrance. The latest audio-visual equipment is available to personalize services with music and multimedia tributes. Our on-site crematorium offers peace of mind, knowing that your loved one never leaves our care.
Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind
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Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
Ackerman Funeral Directors encourages individuals and families to consider planning in advance. Pre-arranging a funeral or cremation service alleviates the burden from your loved ones during their time of grief. Our staff is skilled in discussing these sensitive plans, offering transparent advice on the financial and logistical advantages of planning ahead. We assure you that any arrangements made will be honored and respected, providing clear instructions on the execution of final wishes.
Supportive Resources and Aftercare
The journey through grief doesn't end after the funeral service. Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service extends aftercare resources to aid in your healing. Our connections with bereavement specialists and support groups offer a community that can empathize and guide through the complicated maze of emotions. We also provide online memorials where families can continue to share stories and keep their loved one's memory alive.
Guiding You Through the Legalities
Our knowledgeable team is well-versed in the legalities surrounding the passing of a loved one. We are here to guide you in obtaining death certificates, advising on estate matters, and ensuring that all documentation complies with state regulations. At Ackerman, we shoulder the bureaucratic burdens so that you may focus on grieving and honoring the departed.
Connect With Us Anytime
Acknowledging that loss can occur at any moment, Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service are here to answer your call 24 hours a day. Our outreach extends beyond office hours, ensuring that you are never alone in urgent times. Whether you have immediate needs, require assistance with pre-planning, or have questions about our services, our doors and our hearts are always open to support you and your family.
Choosing Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service
Selecting Ackerman Funeral Directors & Cremation Service means opting for professional care coupled with genuine compassion. With unity, dignity, and respect as our guiding principles, we stand as a pillar of support for the DeWitt community and the surrounding areas. We invite you to visit us at 212 10th Circle, DeWitt, IA, 52742, to experience firsthand how we can serve you in honoring a life well-lived. In the sorrow of loss, find a partner in Ackerman who will guide you with sensitivity and kindness every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an obituary?
An obituary is a written announcement of a person's death, typically published in newspapers or online platforms. It includes a brief biography of the deceased, information about their family, and details regarding funeral or memorial services. An obituary serves as a notice to the community and also as a tribute to the person's life.
Why is writing an obituary important?
Writing an obituary is important for several reasons. It formally acknowledges the loss of a loved one and provides a record of their existence for future generations. It also informs friends, colleagues, and the extended community of the person's passing, inviting them to participate in the mourning process and any associated services.
Who typically writes an obituary?
Obituaries are usually written by immediate family members, such as a spouse, sibling, child, or parent. However, in some cases, a close friend or a professional writer hired by the family can also compose the obituary.
What information is typically included in an obituary?
An obituary typically includes the full name of the deceased, their age, date of birth and death, brief biographical details, family members, information about the funeral or memorial service, and sometimes a special message or a thank you note to those who helped during their final days.
How do I start writing an obituary?
To start writing an obituary, gather essential information about the deceased, such as their full name, birth and death dates, and details about their life, career, and family. Begin by announcing the death respectfully and proceed with a chronological account of their life, ending with funeral service details and an expression of gratitude.
Where is an obituary published?
Obituaries are commonly published in local or national newspapers, both in print and online editions. They can also be posted on the websites of funeral homes, social media, community bulletins, and in various other digital formats.
Is there a difference between an obituary and a death notice?
Yes, there's a difference. A death notice is a shorter, more formal announcement that typically contains only basic details about the deceased and the forthcoming services. An obituary is longer, allowing for a more personal and detailed account of the deceased's life and legacy.
How long after a death is an obituary published?
An obituary is generally published within a few days to a week after death. This allows time for the family to gather necessary information and make service arrangements, while also notifying the community in a timely manner.
Can I include a picture with an obituary?
Yes, it's common to include a photograph with an obituary. A recent portrait or a picture that reflects a happier time in the deceased's life can add a personal touch and help readers connect with the announcement.
How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?
It's important to handle sensitive information with care and respect. Focus on celebrating the deceased's life and achievements without disclosing private or controversial details. If in doubt, consult with other family members for guidance.
What is a eulogy and how is it different from an obituary?
A eulogy is a speech given at a funeral or memorial service in praise of the deceased, often sharing fond memories and personal stories. While an obituary serves as a public announcement of death and a record of the person's life, a eulogy is more personal and is delivered orally to those present at the service.
Should I mention the cause of death in an obituary?
Mentioning the cause of death in an obituary is a personal choice. Some families choose to include this information, especially if the deceased was a public figure or if the death was high-profile. However, it's entirely acceptable to omit this detail if desired.
Is it necessary to have an obituary proofread?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have the obituary proofread by family members or a professional before publishing. This helps ensure accuracy and prevents any errors or omissions that might cause distress or confusion.
What is the appropriate length for an obituary?
The appropriate length for an obituary can vary. Some are brief and to the point, while others provide a more comprehensive account of the deceased's life. The length may also be influenced by publication space limitations or the family's preferences.
How can I personalize an obituary?
To personalize an obituary, include anecdotes, personal traits, accomplishments, and passions of the deceased. You can mention their hobbies, philanthropic activities, or any other elements that uniquely represent them. Quotations or poems that were significant to the deceased can add a special touch.
Can I write my own obituary?
Yes, it's becoming increasingly common for individuals to write their own obituaries. It ensures that your life story is told as you wish and helps relieve your family of this task during their time of grief.
How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
The cost to publish an obituary can vary widely depending on the length of the obituary and the publication in which it's placed. Some newspapers charge by the word, inch, or column, while others offer a flat rate for a certain amount of space. Online publications might offer free or lower-cost options.
Should I mention charitable donations in an obituary?
Yes, it's common to include a request for charitable donations in lieu of flowers. You can mention the name of a charity or cause that was close to the deceased's heart along with instructions on how to donate.
What should I do if I find an error in an obituary after publication?
If you find an error in an obituary after it has been published, contact the publication as soon as possible to request a correction. Many newspapers and online sites will correct factual errors free of charge.
Is it possible to exclude certain family members from an obituary?
While it is possible to exclude certain family members from an obituary, it's important to consider the potential impact this may have on family dynamics. If there is a sensitive reason for an omission, it may be worth discussing with other family members or a professional counselor before making a final decision.
Can a family choose not to publish an obituary at all?
Yes, publishing an obituary is not a legal requirement and is entirely at the discretion of the family. Some choose not to publish out of a desire for privacy or other personal reasons.
If the deceased had requests for their obituary, should the family honor them?
If the deceased left specific requests or guidelines for their obituary, it is respectful for the family to honor those wishes as closely as possible. However, the family should also feel comfortable making adjustments if needed to accommodate the situation at the time of death.