Lighthouse of Tekonsha - Event Hall Obituaries

Welcoming You to Lighthouse of Tekonsha - Event Hall: A Beacon of Comfort in Times of Need

Lighthouse of Tekonsha - Event Hall is a trusted and compassionate funeral home located at 616 North Main Street, Tekonsha, MI, 49092. For years, our dedicated team has been providing exceptional funeral services to the families of Tekonsha and surrounding communities. Our commitment to excellence, empathy, and personalized care sets us apart as a premier funeral home in the region.

A Sanctuary for Families in Grief

Our funeral home is designed to provide a comforting and peaceful atmosphere, where families can come together to celebrate the life of their loved one. Our spacious event hall is perfect for hosting memorial services, visitations, and gatherings, accommodating up to [number] guests. The warm and inviting ambiance is further enhanced by our beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a serene setting for reflection and remembrance.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Richard Douglas Milliman - January 11, 1946 - February 21, 2024

Departed: 02/21/2024 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Richard Douglas “Rich/Max” Milliman, 78, of Tekonsha, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at his home.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at the Union Church UCC of Tekonsha, 206 W. Randall St., Tekonsha, MI 49092. Pastor Jennifer Fair will officiate. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Tekonsha. A gathering of family and friends will take place on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 11:00 A.M. until the time of the service at 1:00 P.M., also at the church. The family is being served by Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation.

Rich was born to Kenneth and Harriette (Hodges) Milliman on January 11, 1946, in Battle Creek, Michigan. He resided in Tekonsha all of his life. He graduated from Tekonsha High School with the Class of 1964. After graduation, Richard attended Ferris State University and Northern Michigan University prior to being drafted to the United States Army. Richard served honorably for two years, which included for our country’s Vietnam War efforts. Richard met many lifelong friends in the Army that he kept in contact with throughout his life. He cherished his annual trip to Kokomo, Indiana for the weeklong Vietnam Veteran Rally with his friends and fellow veterans.

Richard married Lynette Dowding on June 28, 1975 and they had two children together, Kenneth and Toni. Richard would often be found in the bleachers or the ball field supporting Ken and Toni’s athletic and extracurricular activities. This continued throughout his life as he continued to support many nieces, nephews, and his grandchildren, Elizabeth and Ryan.

Richard worked for the Michigan Department of Corrections, which he retired from in 2007 after 22 years of service to the state. Prior to his years working for the state, he was an independent insurance agent with Lynette for 11 years. While working in corrections and as an insurance agent, he met many friends.

Richard was a road warrior who loved road trips. Whether it was traveling to the cabin in Mesick and Lovells, Michigan, Jensen Beach, Florida, or the tin shack in the Upper Peninsula, he could often be found with a carload of family and friends. He cherished seeing new places and the good times that were spent on the road.

Richard is survived by his wife Lynette; his son, Kenneth (Kelly) Millman; his grandchildren, Elizabeth and Ryan; his sisters Hannah Trine, Nancy Foust; his many nieces and nephews; his sisters-in-law, Nan (Jack) Bellefy and Polly (Dan) Brinker; his brother-in-law, Matt Dowding; and his mother-in-law, Jeanne Dowding.

Preceding Richard in death are his parents and his daughter, Toni Milliman, in 1999.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Veterans Honor Flight Network, Box L-4016, Columbus, OH 43260-4016, https://www.honorflight.org/donate/ or to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, 2500 Watkins Rd, Battle Creek, MI, 49015.

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Dewight Eugene Runyon - July 14, 1942 - July 30, 2023

Departed: 07/30/2023 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Dewight Eugene Runyon, 81, of Tekonsha, passed away on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

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David Alan Pritchard - February 17, 1959 - May 12, 2023

Departed: 05/12/2023 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: David A. Pritchard, 64, of Marshall, passed away on Friday, May 12, 2023 at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.

A graveside service will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Rice Creek Cemetery in Lee Twp. The family is being served by Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation in Union City.

David was born on February 17, 1959 in Marshall, Michigan to Daniel and Audrey (Cole) Pritchard. He enjoyed tinkering on anything with an engine, mowing lawn, but most of all fishing. He also had a great love for animals.

Surviving are his children, David (Cynthia) Pritchard of Charlotte, Alisha Pritchard of Virginia and Josh Wilder of Battle Creek; grandchildren, Tyler, Brady, Harley, Anna, Ethaniel, Kaleb and MaKayla great grandson, Jackson; siblings, Bob (Diana) Pritchard of Homer, Brenda Hall of Marshall and Carl Pritchard of Battle Creek; girlfriend, Christine Hall; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a niece, Jessica.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation, P.O. Box 161, Union City, MI 49094, to assist with funeral costs.

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Gladys Lucille Myers - January 29, 1928 - May 11, 2023

Departed: 05/11/2023 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Gladys Lucille Myers, 95, of Tekonsha, passed away on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at MediLodge of Marshall, surrounded by her family.

A gathering of family and friends will take place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 at Lighthouse of Tekonsha, 616 N. Main St. Tekonsha, MI, 49092. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 PM at Riverside Cemetery in Tekonsha. The family is being served by Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation.

Gladys was born January 29, 1928 in Hanover, Michigan and was raised in Coldwater by her parents, Harley and Bertha Williams. She grew up Catholic and was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church. Gladys graduated from Coldwater High School in 1947 and married John R. Miller. They had three children together, but the marriage ended in divorce. She later married Jerry Burns, who preceded her in death. Her last marriage was to Norman Myers, who also preceded her in death. Gladys worked in factories, was employed by Swift Eckrich, drove bus for Coldwater Community Schools and worked at McDonald’s in Coldwater. In addition to having lived in Coldwater, she had also resided in Girard and Cedar Springs before she moved to Tekonsha in 2009.

Deeply loving and stubborn, Gladys enjoyed worrying about and spending time with her family. She was always shaking a finger at members of the younger generations and saying “Hair now” to them. She liked to ask for a “swallow” of someone’s beverage, but would end up drinking half of it. Gladys loved watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in sports and other activities. Her own favorite activities included bowling, watching bowling and figure skating on TV, cross-stitching and painting ceramics. Although she wintered in Florida as long as she was able, her heart always remained firmly in the center of family life here in Michigan.

Gladys is survived by her children, John (Charlene) Miller of Tekonsha and David E. Miller of Coldwater; her grandchildren, Jamie (Brad) Thomas of Tekonsha, Eric “Pud” (Stacey) Phelps of Tekonsha, Lisa Marie Miller of Battle Creek, Amy Glass of Flint and Michelle (Brian) Torrey of Battle Creek; 15 great-grandchildren; and special friend, Mary Clifford of Coldwater.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; a daughter, Bertha Phelps (2017); and a great-grandson, Cameron Grant Thomas.

Please visit www.lighthousefuneral.com to share memories, pictures and videos with the family.

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Margo Lee Knapp - August 12, 1950 - August 06, 2022

Departed: 08/06/2022 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Margo Lee Knapp, 71, of Tekonsha, passed away on Saturday, August 6, 2022 of aplastic anemia and underlying health issues at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility in Coldwater.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 12, 2022 at 4:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Tekonsha, with Pastor Jennifer Fair of the Tekonsha Union Church UCC officiating. A luncheon will follow, with interment afterward at West Clarendon Cemetery on M-60. A visitation of family and friends will be held prior to the service, from 1:00-4:00 on Friday, August 12, 2022 at the First Baptist Church. The family is being served by Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation.

Margo was born August 12, 1950 in Marshall, Michigan to Ray and Rosemary (Bugden) Knapp. She graduated in 1968 from Marshall High School and went on to attend Western Michigan University, where she earned a B.A. in home economics and minored in communications. Growing up, Margo was in 4-H for 10 years and later received the 4-H alumnus award.                 While living in Kalamazoo, she worked at Steketee’s and managed the lower level. Later, she was one of Calhoun County’s DHIA milk testers for many years. She then moved to Texas, where she worked for Tom Thumb Page grocery store as a deli manager. She was named deli manager of the year for 1987. It was there she learned to decorate cakes.

In 1988 Margo moved home to farm the Knapp Centennial Farm. In 1995, she started M & M Kakes and Katering and closed it in 2020.  She did box lunches, catering and wedding and occasion cakes.

Margo was involved in the Tekonsha Lions Club. She held many offices and was recipient the Melvin Jones award. She enjoyed playing Mahjong at the Marshall Library.

Margo is survived by her sister, Merrie Knapp, of Tekonsha. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray (1988) and Rosemary (2020) Knapp; a brother, Russell Ray Knapp (1974) and infant twin sisters, Marilyn and Marlene Knapp (1954).

Memorial donations are suggested to the Tekonsha Lions Club, PO Box 137, Tekonsha, MI  49092 to assist with eyeglasses and eye appointments or to the Tekonsha Township Library, 230 S. Church Street, Tekonsha, MI  49092.

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Cheryl A. McCans - August 17, 1958 - January 19, 2022

Departed: 01/19/2022 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Cheryl Ann McCans, 63, of Tekonsha, passed away Wednesday, Jan 19, 2022 surrounded by her family at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.

A memorial service celebrating Cheryl’s life will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at Lighthouse of Tekonsha, 616 N. Main St. Tekonsha, MI 49092. Visitation will be held for two hours prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 P.M, also at Lighthouse of Tekonsha.

Cheryl was born August 17, 1958 to Arthur and Anna Mae (Eldridge) Fraley, Jr. in Rowan, KY. She earned a master’s in cosmetology. Cheryl work for many years as a hairdresser and also taught Cosmetology. She enjoyed taking care of her family, gardening, flowers, and cooking for others so she could see the satisfied look on their faces after having a good meal. Cheryl was a kind and caring person who loved mothering those around her, she will be missed by all that knew her.

Surviving are her life partner, Bill Stager of Tekonsha, son Jacob (June) McCans of Coldwater, granddaughter, Liberty McCans, brothers, William, Tommy, Tony, Terry, and Gary. She was preceded in death by her parents, son Joshua McCans and a sister Patty.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation, PO Box 161, Union City, MI 49094 to help with final expenses.

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Jack Sheppard - November 21, 1939 - January 08, 2022

Departed: 01/08/2022 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Jack Allen Sheppard, 82, of Burlington, formerly of Tekonsha, passed away on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at Colonial House in Marshall.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at the First Baptist Church of Tekonsha. Cremation will follow and a private burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Tekonsha. Visitation will be held from 5-8 PM on Friday, January 21, 2022 at the First Baptist Church of Tekonsha.

Jack was born November 21, 1939 in Flint, Michigan to Kenneth and Ermel (Ludwig) Sheppard in Flint. He graduated from Union City High School with the Class of 1957. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Cuba and Puerto Rico. Jack attended Lansing Barber College and worked as a barber in Union City, Burlington, Homer and Tekonsha before taking a job in Battle Creek at Kellogg’s, from which he retired. On April 25, 1965 he married Linda Edwards at Cook’s Prairie Baptist Church in Homer. Jack enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling up north with “the guys,” golfing in a league, competing at trap and skeet shooting, and tractor pulling from here to Louisville. Jack served as the mayor of Tekonsha for several years and was a member of the Kellogg’s 25 Year Club.

Surviving are his daughter, Toni (Kevin) Ware of Burlington, grandchildren Luke Ware of Tekonsha, Lona Ware of Burlington, and James (Jennifer) Stevens; and one great-grandchild, Jackson; and his dear friends, Amy Scott, Danny Owens and the caregivers at Colonial House.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 56 years, Linda (2021); and his brother, Donald Sheppard.

Please visit www.lighthousefuneral.com to share memories, pictures and videos with the family.

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James Allan Tucker - July 05, 1953 - October 28, 2021

Departed: 10/28/2021 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: James Allan Tucker, 68, of Marshall, passed away at home on Thursday, October 28, 2021 surrounded by his family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 8, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation in Union City, with a time of visiting with friends and family to follow until 5:00 PM.

Jim was born July 5, 1953 in Marshall, Michigan to John and Betty (Thomas) Tucker. He grew up in Marshall and graduated from Marshall High School in 1972. He was employed as a truck driver for John Hammond Trucking out of Marshall. When not working, Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include Jim’s son, Ryan Tucker of Florida; step-daughter, Tammy Tallman of South Carolina; grandchildren, Patrick Tucker of Florida, Marshall Tallman of South Carolina and Hayley Rillon of South Carolina; brothers, Jerry and Joe Tucker, both of Marshall; a sister, Jan, of Bentonville, AR; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, John, Jeff and Gene Tucker.

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Sharon Kaye Selby - January 11, 1947 - May 25, 2024

Departed: 05/25/2024 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Sharon Selby, 77, of Tekonsha, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, after battling health issues for several years.

A celebration of Sharon’s life will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, June 14, 2024 at Lighthouse of Tekonsha, 616 N. Main Street, Tekonsha, MI, 49092 with Deacon John Wielgos officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the celebration service beginning at 10:00 A.M., also at the Lighthouse. A private interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Tekonsha.

Sharon was born on January 11, 1947 in Coldwater, Michigan to Rex and Violet (Tobalski) Rainey. She was a lifelong resident of Tekonsha, Michigan, graduating in 1965. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Selby in 1964 and raised 3 daughters, Lynette, LeAnn and Laura, and one son, Loren. After 43 years of marriage, they decided to divorce but remained close, attending appointments and grandkid events together. Sharon was a successful, competitive baton twirler in her younger days, where she won many medals and trophies. In high school, she led the marching band as a majorette and was on the cheerleading team. Sharon was a stay-at-home mom before becoming a school bus driver and custodian at Tekonsha High School for 10 years. A job that she could walk through her backyard and be at work. Later, Sharon worked in housekeeping at Coldwater Regional Hospital, but was most proud of her employment at the great Kellogg Company for 10 years. Later in life, Sharon worked in Tekonsha for M&M Catering and was an original hire in the Deli Department at the Battle Creek Meijer Store on Beckley Road.

Sharon enjoyed traveling, which took her many places throughout the US, Cayman Islands and Australia, where her daughter, Laura, once resided. She met lifelong friends on cruises. She walked the “Mighty Mac” many Labor Days. Sharon had a knack for decorating her house inside and out and always put great thought into her appearance. She loved eating out and shopping at thrift stores and garage sales for her “treasures”. Her most favorite pastime was visiting area casinos where she enjoyed the slot machines “donating” way more than she received. It was her final wish to have one more visit to the area casino but unfortunately, the Lord had a different plan for her. Sharon was most proud of her nine grandchildren, rarely missing a band concert, play, or sporting event and often adorned herself in their school colors, photo buttons, and matching jewelry. She was the self-proclaimed family photographer and always carried her camera with her to capture those Kodak moments to share with family and friends. Sharon was a Cat Lady and shared her home with 3 cats, Daisy, Daffodil, and Charlie. Sharon was a long-time member of the Lady of Fatima Church in Union City.

Sharon is survived by her four children, Lynette (Robert) Wade of Battle Creek, LeAnn (Scott) Waffle of Bastrop, TX, Laura Cummins of Battle Creek and Loren Selby of Tekonsha; and her nine grandchildren. Sharon is preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Violet, and her ex-husband, Robert.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harper Creek Athletic Boosters, 12677 Beadle Lake Road, Battle Creek, MI 49014.

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Kenneth Harmon King - April 18, 1934 - June 13, 2024

Departed: 06/13/2024 (Tekonsha)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth Harmon “Ken” King, 90, of Eckford Township, entered the gates of heaven on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

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Compassionate Funeral Directors and Staff

At Lighthouse of Tekonsha - Event Hall, we take pride in our team of experienced and caring funeral directors and staff. Each member of our team is dedicated to providing personalized attention to every family we serve, ensuring that every detail is meticulously taken care of. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, we are committed to supporting you through this difficult time.

Customized Funeral Services to Honor Your Loved One

We understand that every life is unique, and every family has its own distinct needs and preferences. That's why we offer a range of customized funeral services designed to honor your loved one in a way that truly reflects their personality, interests, and legacy. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebration of life events, we will work with you to create a meaningful and memorable tribute.

Premier Event Facilities for Life's Celebrations

In addition to our funeral services, our event hall is also available for rent for other life celebrations such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and more. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, comfortable seating, and ample parking. Our event coordinator will work closely with you to ensure that every detail is taken care of, allowing you to focus on what matters most – celebrating life's special moments with your loved ones.

Supporting You Through the Grieving Process

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but you don't have to navigate the grieving process alone. At Lighthouse of Tekonsha - Event Hall, we offer a range of support services designed to help you cope with your loss. From bereavement counseling to grief support groups, we are committed to providing you with the resources and guidance you need to heal and move forward.

Community Involvement and Outreach

We believe that giving back to our community is an essential part of who we are. That's why we are actively involved in various local charities, organizations, and initiatives that support families in need. From hosting fundraising events to participating in community outreach programs, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

Contact Us: Your Trusted Partner in Times of Need

If you're facing the loss of a loved one or planning ahead for the future, we invite you to reach out to us at Lighthouse of Tekonsha - Event Hall. Our compassionate team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, provide guidance, and offer support. Contact us today at [phone number] or [email address] to learn more about our services and how we can help you navigate this difficult time.

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 may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral or memorial services, and any charitable donations in their memory.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to notify friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased, although it can also be written by a funeral home or other organization. In some cases, the deceased may have written their own obituary in advance.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral or memorial services, and any charitable donations in their memory.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's usually around 100-200 words. Some online obituary platforms may have specific word count limits.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms allow you to upload photos of the deceased. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the obituary and celebrate their life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to ask about their submission process and guidelines. Some newspapers may accept online submissions, while others may require email or phone submissions.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, you can write your own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life is celebrated in the way you want it to be.

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

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

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, humor can be an appropriate way to celebrate someone's life and personality. However, it's essential to consider the tone and audience when deciding whether to include humor in an obituary.

How do I announce the death of a loved one on social media?

You can share the news on your personal social media accounts or create a memorial page for the deceased. Be respectful of privacy and consider sharing a link to the official obituary or funeral home website.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional print obituary. It's often hosted on a funeral home or online memorial website and can include photos, videos, and guestbooks for condolences.

How long does an online obituary stay online?

The duration of an online obituary varies depending on the hosting platform. Some websites may keep the obituary online indefinitely, while others may remove it after a certain period.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, yes, you can edit an obituary after it's been published. However, this may depend on the publication or platform where it was published.

What is the purpose of an obituary guestbook?

An online guestbook allows friends and family to leave condolences, share memories, and celebrate the life of the deceased. It provides a space for people to express their emotions and connect with others who are grieving.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, including meaningful quotes or lyrics can add depth and personality to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the deceased's values or interests.

How do I handle errors in an obituary?

If you notice errors in an obituary, contact the publication or platform where it was published as soon as possible. They will work with you to correct the mistakes.

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

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary. This allows friends and family to make a meaningful contribution in memory of the deceased.

What is the average cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication, location, and length of the notice. On average, it can range from $50 to $500 or more.

Can I reuse an existing obituary for multiple publications?

Yes, you can reuse an existing obituary for multiple publications. However, be sure to check with each publication for their specific submission guidelines and formatting requirements.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit local libraries that maintain archives of historical newspapers. You can also try searching on genealogy websites or contacting local historical societies.

Can I create a video tribute for an online obituary?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to create video tributes or slideshows to accompany an online obituary. This can be a meaningful way to celebrate the life of the deceased.

What is the role of a funeral home in creating an obituary?

Funeral homes often assist families in writing and submitting obituaries to newspapers and online platforms. They may also provide guidance on what information to include and how to structure the notice.

Can I write an anonymous condolence message in an online guestbook?

No, it's generally recommended to sign your name when leaving condolences in an online guestbook. This allows the family to know who is expressing sympathy and connect with them personally.

How do I share condolences with someone who has lost a loved one?

You can express sympathy through a condolence message, card, or gift. Be genuine and sincere in your approach, and avoid clichés or platitudes that might come across as insensitive.