Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives Obituaries

Introduction to Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives

Located in the heart of Montpelier, Vermont, Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives is a funeral home that provides compassionate and personalized funeral services to families in their time of need. With a focus on simplicity, dignity, and affordability, this funeral home offers a unique approach to celebrating the lives of loved ones who have passed on.

A Philosophy of Simplicity and Respect

At Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives, the staff believes that funerals should be a reflection of the person who has passed away, not a display of elaborate and expensive rituals. This philosophy is rooted in the idea that simplicity and respect are essential components of a meaningful funeral service. By stripping away unnecessary costs and complexities, the funeral home enables families to focus on what truly matters – honoring their loved one and supporting each other during a difficult time.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Kathleen Alexis Van Demark - June 10, 1948 - April 20, 2023

Departed: 04/20/2023 (Montpelier)

Obituary Preview: Kathleen Alexis Van Demark (née McCorkle), previously Kathleen Ackerman, age 74, passed away quietly in the early morning of April 20, 2023, at home in Rockport, Massachusetts, next to her husband of over 41 years, Peter Howard Van Demark. She was lovingly attended by two death doulas and wrapped in a piece of a WWII silk parachute, painted with a scene of the Great Marsh, then laid in a handmade willow casket. Kate was transported to Rochester, NY for a green burial in the Crosman family plot at Mt. Hope Cemetery on Earth Day, April 22, 2023.

Kate was born in Portland, Oregon on July 10, 1948, shortly after the death of her father, Alexander McCorkle, in an Air National Guard plane that he was piloting. Her mother remarried and the family moved for several years to Tacoma, Washington, before returning to Portland. She graduated from Cleveland High School and Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where she had work/study trips to Mississippi, Germany, and Wales. After jobs in Oregon, she moved to Hawaii and studied medicine at the University of Hawaii, with a memorable rotation to the Truk Atoll in Micronesia. She completed her residency and post-doctoral studies at the University of Rochester, becoming an Internist with a specialty in geriatric medicine. She practiced in Rochester, and in Boston after moving there in 1994. Kate appreciated and cultivated a wide community of family, friends and colleagues. She retired at 55, her reason "before she became her own patient", and enjoyed choral singing, watercolor, gardening, reading, travel and other activities. When a friend she mentored passed away, she served as Acting Medical Director of Senior Whole Health of Massachusetts, then permanently retired.

Kate had a passion for family history and was Councilor and past Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of New England Historic Genealogical Society. Her many trips with her husband included the Great Migration Study Tours, as well as Viking River and Ocean cruises. She was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in November, 2022 and fought back from its effects to come home before Christmas, where she received in-home nursing and then hospice care until her peaceful death. Many caring health professionals helped "Dr Kate" on her journey, and her illness was chronicled by her husband on a CaringBridge journal.

Kate was preceded in death by her father, Alexander McCorkle; mother, Winona (Hulse) Ackerman; stepfather, Arthur Ackerman; and brother, David Ackerman. She is survived by her husband, Peter H Van Demark; sister, Alice (Ackerman) Uddin and brother-in-law, Haseen Uddin; sister-in-law, Jey Ackerman; sister, Molly (Ackerman) Baumert and brother-in-law, Gary Baumert; brother-in-law, Scott VanDemark; and sister-in-law, Debra (Julian) VanDemark; and many nieces, nephews, other family, and friends. Kate's Memorial Service will be held at 11am, on Saturday, Aug 12, 2023, at the Shalin Liu Performance Center, in Rockport, MA, followed by a reception.

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A Range of Services to Meet Your Needs

Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives offers a comprehensive range of services to cater to the diverse needs of families. From traditional funeral services to cremations, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, the funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized and meaningful experience. Whether you're planning ahead or dealing with the unexpected loss of a loved one, the team at Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives is committed to providing guidance, support, and compassion every step of the way.

Direct Cremation: A Simple and Affordable Option

For those who prefer a more straightforward and cost-effective approach, direct cremation is an option offered by Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives. This process involves the cremation of the deceased without a formal funeral service or viewing. The ashes are then returned to the family, who can choose to scatter them in a special location, bury them in a cemetery, or keep them in an urn. Direct cremation is an attractive option for those who value simplicity and want to avoid the expense associated with traditional funeral services.

Cremation with Memorial Service: A Balance Between Tradition and Innovation

If you're looking for a way to balance tradition with innovation, cremation with a memorial service might be the perfect choice. This option allows you to hold a memorial service or celebration of life at a later date, giving you time to gather your thoughts and plan a fitting tribute to your loved one. Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives will handle the cremation process with dignity and respect, while also providing guidance on how to plan a meaningful memorial service.

Environmental Considerations: Eco-Friendly Funeral Options

In recent years, there has been growing concern about the environmental impact of traditional funeral practices. At Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives, the staff recognizes the importance of minimizing their ecological footprint. The funeral home offers eco-friendly options such as biodegradable caskets, natural burial sites, and carbon-neutral cremation processes. By choosing these alternatives, you can ensure that your loved one's farewell is not only dignified but also environmentally responsible.

Pre-Planning: Taking Control of Your Final Wishes

One of the most significant advantages of working with Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives is the opportunity to pre-plan your funeral arrangements. By taking control of your final wishes, you can spare your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during an already emotional time. The funeral home's experienced staff will guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you to make informed choices about your funeral service and ensuring that your wishes are respected.

A Commitment to Community and Compassion

At Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives, the staff is deeply committed to serving their community with compassion and understanding. They recognize that losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, and they strive to provide support and guidance throughout the grieving process. From bereavement counseling to community outreach programs, the funeral home is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.

Contacting Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives

If you're seeking a funeral home that truly cares about its community and offers personalized services with a focus on simplicity and respect, look no further than Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives. You can reach out to them at P.O. Box 711, Montpelier, VT, 05601 or visit their website to learn more about their services and philosophy. Remember, when it comes to saying goodbye to a loved one, it's essential to choose a funeral home that shares your values and priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It is usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who knew them. They help to notify others of the person's passing, share details about their life and legacy, and offer an opportunity for friends and family to pay their respects.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by the family members or close friends of the deceased, often with the assistance of a funeral home or obituary writer. The writer should be someone who was close to the deceased and can provide an accurate and personal account of their life.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), hobbies, interests, and surviving family members. It may also include a brief biography, achievements, and notable accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words. However, some online platforms may allow for longer or more detailed obituaries.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

To submit an obituary to a newspaper, contact the publication's obituary department directly. They will provide guidance on their submission process, deadlines, and any specific requirements they may have.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and legacy. However, it's essential to keep in mind that your loved ones may still want to add or modify certain details after your passing.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals or flat fees. Online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I make corrections to an already published obituary?

If you need to make corrections to an already published obituary, contact the publication or platform where it was originally posted. They will guide you through their correction process, which may involve re-publishing the revised obituary.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The time it takes for an obituary to be published can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days for an obituary to appear in print or online.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can be included in an obituary. This can add a personal touch and help capture their spirit and personality.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides additional information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include a request for charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause they cared about.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search for old obituaries through online archives, libraries, or genealogy websites. Many newspapers also maintain archives of past issues that can be searched digitally or in-person.

Can I republish an old obituary?

If you want to republish an old obituary, you'll need to obtain permission from the original publication or copyright holder. Be sure to check their policies and guidelines before re-publishing.

What is the purpose of an online obituary platform?

Online obituary platforms provide a centralized location for people to search for and view obituaries from various sources. They often offer features such as guest books, condolences, and memorial pages.

Are online obituaries permanent?

Most online obituaries are intended to be permanent tributes. However, some platforms may have policies regarding how long they will maintain archived content. Be sure to check their terms of service before posting.

Can I create a memorial page or website for my loved one?

Yes, there are many platforms that allow you to create a memorial page or website for your loved one. These can be personalized with photos, stories, and other memories.

How do I handle condolences and messages from strangers?

If you're receiving condolences from strangers through an online platform or social media, you can respond with a simple "thank you" or ignore them altogether. Be cautious when sharing personal information with strangers.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Yes, social media can be a convenient way to share an obituary with friends and family. You can post a link to the online obituary or share a brief summary along with a photo.

Is it appropriate to share funny stories or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Sharing humorous stories or anecdotes can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure they are respectful and won't offend anyone.

Can I include pets in an obituary?

If pets were important companions to the deceased, it's perfectly fine to mention them in the obituary. This can be especially comforting for those who understand the bond between humans and animals.

What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?

If you're unsure about what information to include in an obituary, consider consulting with family members or close friends who knew the deceased well. Funeral homes or professional writers can also provide guidance if needed.

Can I update an existing online memorial page after its initial creation?