Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel Obituaries

About Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel

Located in the heart of Red Lodge, Montana, Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel has been serving the community with compassion and dedication for many years. As a family-owned and operated funeral home, they understand the importance of providing personalized and meaningful funeral services to families during their time of need.

A History of Excellence

Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel has a rich history in Red Lodge, dating back to [insert year]. The funeral home was founded on the principles of integrity, respect, and compassion, and these values continue to guide their team today. Over the years, they have built a reputation for excellence in funeral service, earning the trust of families throughout Carbon County and beyond.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Andrea Susann Rostad Holmen - August 01, 1943 - December 22, 2023

Departed: 12/22/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Andrea Susann Rostad Holmen passed away peacefully Friday, December 22nd, at home surrounded by her family following an 8-year battle with cancer. Born in 1943 to Peter and Mildred Rostad of Big Timber, Montana, Andrea grew up on the family ranch as an only child, yet had many cousins-as-siblings from the Clarence Rostad and Louis Grosfield families.

Following a childhood that included education in a one-room schoolhouse, she graduated from Sweet Grass County High School as valedictorian and made her way to Northfield, Minnesota to attend St. Olaf College, where her aunt Alice Erickson worked. After earning her master’s degree in mathematics from Cornell University, Andrea landed her first teaching job in Aitkin, Minnesota, where she met her future husband of 53 years, Bob.

The two moved to Red Lodge in 1972, and she became involved in two things that would be driving influences for the remainder of her life—playing organ and piano at Messiah Lutheran Church, and participating in many aspects of the Scandinavian folk dance group’s involvement with the Festival of Nations and beyond.

Andrea taught at Roberts High School for over 20 years, where she was known as a kind and compassionate math teacher, admired and loved by students and colleagues alike. One of many highlights is when she made a bet that she would shave her head into a reverse mohawk if the boys’ basketball team won the state championship, which she made good on when they did.

Following her retirement from teaching, Andrea poured her energies into leading her women’s bible study, knitting prayer shawls, and serving as a hospice volunteer. She also enjoyed sharing her musical talents wherever she could, from local weddings and funerals to playing weekly at the Willows retirement community in Red Lodge.

Andrea was blessed with the gift of making friends wherever she went, and was particularly well-known for her great love in giving and receiving hugs. When possible, she traveled to meet these friends and family, be it in the U.S. or in farther-flung areas. She was particularly fond of traveling to Europe, where she visited relatives in Norway, exchange students in Germany, and college friends in France.

Andrea is survived by her husband Bob, daughters Kirsten (Manuel Cabanas-Holmen) of McKenna, Washington and Maren of New York City, granddaughters Anja and Iselin, and many beloved cousins. She is preceded in death by her infant brother, George Lorents, and by her parents, Peter and Mildred.

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Evelyn Carey - September 13, 1932 - August 09, 2023

Departed: 08/09/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: A Celebration of LIFE

On the afternoon of August 9th, 2023, Evelyn “Evie” Carey passed away at home with family by her side, at the age of ninety.

Evie was born to Otto and Rosalie Myran on September 13th, 1932 in Taylor, ND and the family moved to Kinsey, MT in 1941. There, Evie attended grade school, developed her love for animals, and learned the value of hard work. While attending high school in Miles City and helping on the family farm milking cows and hauling milk, she started her long-time career in the grocery business. First, in Miles City, at Sawyers, Woolworths, then Reynolds Grocery for 28 years; in Forsyth at TimCins; and last, after moving to Red Lodge, MT in 1994, at the Beartooth IGA. Evie’s customers meant everything to her and customers would go specifically to her line. She retired just shy of her 80th birthday (and only then due to an injury). She loved her work and the people - or, as she would say, her friends.

After graduating from Custer County High School in 1950, Evie married Harley Wildman in 1951. They resided in KnowIton, MT and Evie began her family with three sons; Clint, Dallas and Tim. After their divorce, Evie married Airman Wilson “Bill” Bennett and added her first daughter, Cynthia “Cindy”. Bill returned to NC, and they divorced. In late 1959, Evie married the love-of-her-life, Mencel Carey of Kinsey, and they completed the family with three more daughters: Stena, Mencella, and Rebecca “Becky”.

Family was everything to Evie – her large holiday gatherings, good times at the tin cabin in Red Lodge, and her oft-repeated statement, “just leave the kids with me!” proved as much. She was a kind soul that not only cared for her own family, but for anyone that needed someone. Extra wrapped Christmas gifts were always on hand for the ones that had no place to go. And if someone and their pet needed a home, they had one. They were never strangers; everyone was her friend and once a member of the family, you were always a member of the family. If someone needed her help, Evie gave it, and she doled out hugs and (if needed) the occasional butt chewing to all. If you were lucky, you even received one of her beautiful paintings. Evie’s work was her entertainment, home was her solitude, and family was her everything.

Evelyn is survived by her children: Clint Wildman of Billings, Dallas (Linda) Wildman of Miles City, Cindy Muggli Smith of Red Lodge, Stena (Jim) Bushnell of Red Lodge, Mencella (Kelly) Carlson of Miles City, Rebecca (Dixon) Murnion of Sand Springs. Daughter-in-law Cyn Wildman. One sister, Shirley Watts and one brother Orville Myran. Sister-in-law Fern Griggs. Grandchildren Travis (Steph) Chamberlain, Tyler (Marina) Wildman, BreAnn (Jeremie) Vandersloot, Mathew (Jordan) Evenson, Jodi (Ted) Herzog, Jenny (Brad) Malloy, Travis Wildman, Tiffany Wildman, Cara (Nate) Cook, Kit (Amberly) Chalberg, Rhonda (Jeff) Wald, Brandie Bushnell, Mandie (Jeff) Driessen, Randielynn (Russell) Mosier, Ally (Andy) Haegele, Maverick (Kayla) Bushnell, Glen (Cherie) Greer, Michael (Chettie) Greer, Jason Greer, Logan Carey; And many, many beloved great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, plus many nieces and nephews.

Evie is preceded in death by: her parents, husband Mencel Carey; son Tim Wildman; daughter-in-law Leslie Wildman, daughter-in-law Peggy Callaghan, son-in-law Bubba Smith; grandson Clint Zeitner, granddaughter Wendy Wilson; Siblings Wayne (Isabell) Myran, Frannie (Frank) Ziebarth, Lou (John) Wellems, Alice (Jim) Ramsey, and Glen Myran. In laws Laura (Don) Mullen and Chuck (Bonnie Watts) Carey; and Evie’s favorite kitty, JC.

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Byron James Anderson - August 17, 1973 - July 12, 2023

Departed: 07/12/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Byron James Anderson came beaming into the world August 17th, 1973, to Vicky and Gary Anderson. Born and raised in Montana, he grew up in the Red Lodge area. He moved to Bridger in 1991, where he graduated High School. He went on to do many great things in his life. He married Deanna Welch in 1993. Two years later they welcomed baby boy JR into their life, followed by their beautiful baby girl Annabelle in 1998. In 2004, he met the love of his life, Jill Rae Webb. She changed his life forever. They had a love that everyone was jealous of. Such a wonderful pair they made. With their union, Byron gained another wonderful son in Keaton and their baby girl Jaycee. He always had the goal to move back to Red lodge and build a life there, which he accomplished later in his life. Byron changed so many lives and helped so many people. There wasn’t a person who met him that didn’t call him their friend. He was an amazing man with a huge giving spirit. He never hesitated to give the shirt off his back. Byron always enjoyed the simple things in life. Playing pool, camping, fishing, hunting and most of all spending time with his family and friends. On July 12th, 2023, he joined his good friend Anthony Strobbe for a great day of fishing, where he peacefully passed from our lives. He is predeceased by Gary Anderson and Jake Schaad. He is survived by Jill Webb, Byron Anderson Jr., Chelse Anderson, Annabelle Anderson, Keaton Rushton-Anderson, Jaycee Anderson, Vicki Anderson, Robert Anderson, Clarissa Cerovski, Sarah Schaad, Jason Schleining, and many aunts, uncles, in-law’s, outlaws, nieces, nephews, friends and children who he thought of as his own.

Services will be held at Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapels at 201 Broadway Ave N. in Red Lodge, MT Wednesday July 19th at 3pm with viewing beginning at 2pm.

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Michael Lee Mennie - February 01, 1945 - June 27, 2023

Departed: 06/27/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Mick Mennie, born Michael Lee Mennie on February 1st, 1945, in Billings, Montana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday June 27th, 2023, after a valiant seven-year battle with pulmonary fibrosis at his home in Roscoe, Montana. He was 78 years old.

He lived the majority of his life in Billings, attending Garfield Elementary through 9th grade and graduating from Billings Senior High in 1963. He loved golf, cars, and serving his country, which he did for 42 years as a member of the US Army Reserves. A member of the Hilands Golf Club, he served as its president in 2001. He had many careers throughout his life, which included 31 years of service on the board of Altana Federal Credit Union. He humorously considered himself a “jack of all trades, master of none,” however, those who knew him would argue that he mastered many things – especially his ability to serve others and create lasting friendships.

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Ida Sue Klessens - April 15, 1939 - April 08, 2023

Departed: 04/08/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Ida Sue Klessens was born on April 15, 1939, to A. Hugh and Thelma Whitmore. With Grandpa being a government engineer, Mom's early years were spent moving from California to Colorado and Montana following his job.

At age 15, she dreamed of marrying a rodeo cowboy. She met a young cowboy on the Burleson Ranch in Luther, introducing herself by saying, "I’ve seen better cowboys than you." Apparently not, as the following year, her wedding wish came true when she married Jim Klessens.

Mom lived a life filled with kids, grandkids, gardens, canning, beloved horses, and a love for reading during the next 68 years married to that cowboy. It was hard to find her without a Diet Pepsi in her hand, and in later years with one of her special cats on her lap.

She raised us kids with discipline and could nail you with a shoe from around a corner. With 6 ornery kids that was a well-polished skill. Mom was the founder of parenting by threat, swearing to drown us all while driving us to swimming lessons so that we would not.

Mom saw us all through our early church years and Catechism, herding the six of us up the church aisle making sure the boy's cowlicks were patted down and painfully pinning lace doily head coverings on us girls.

As a longtime 4-H leader, Mom put lots of miles on the station wagon hauling us to meetings, events, and 4-H fairs. She suffered through many failed cooking experiences as she taught us all to cook, boys and girls alike. We are not sure if Mom's abilities in sewing and leathercraft came from interest or necessity, but her expertise in both making clothes, working leather and knitting were accomplishments and skills she passed on.

A proud moment for her was getting her GED so that she could be the Luther contract Postmaster and drive the Luther School Bus. These jobs kept her socially engaged and connected to her friends in the Luther Community. Mom had a deep compassion for elderly people in need, taking in several during their end life and supplying hospice care before there was such a thing.

Mom loved her horses and had a special interest in driving whether it was a buggy, cart, or sleigh. She purchased old buggies and painstakingly restored them back to use. Several times, she rode sidesaddle in the Red Lodge 4th of July Parade. Even to the end, she talked about that "one more driving horse" in her future.

Mom passed peacefully on April 17th after a short illness. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Jerry, grandson Lane Martin, and son-in-law Robert Rains.

She is survived by her husband James, children; Teresa (Tim), Beth (Scott), Dawn (Rick), James (Deb), Jody, and Karin, and large herd of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is also survived by sister-in-law Marlene Klessens, good friend Patsy Rehard, and of course, her beloved pets.

A Rosary will be held on May 22nd at 7:00 p.m. with a Funeral Mass on Tuesday, May 23rd at 11:00 a.m. Both will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Red Lodge. Reception and luncheon to follow.

Mom asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the charity of your choice.

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Brett Douglas - April 07, 1959 - February 08, 2023

Departed: 02/08/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Brett was born on April 7, 1959, to Betty and Earl Douglas in San Fernando, California. On Wednesday, February 8, 2023, Brett passed away peacefully at home. Brett was a man of many trades and loved by many. Brett graduated from Palmdale High School and shortly after that moved to Washington where he met the love of his life Jackie. In June of 1979 Brett and Jackie were married and then moved back to California. They have three children, Daisha, Chad, & Kale. In 1994 Brett and Jackie moved their family to Roberts, Montana.

Brett was a very active person. He enjoyed riding his dirt bike with his two sons and his friends. He was an avid fisherman and loved spending his summer days out on the lake and camping with his family. One thing that he truly enjoyed was the family trips that were taken yearly. He was a family man first and foremost and then a businessman. He always made sure his family was taken care of no matter what.

Brett is proceeded in death by his parents Betty and Earl Douglas, his brother Jeff Douglas, and his grandparents Edythe and Cecil Preston. He is survived in death by his aunt Barbara, his wife Jackie, three children, Daisha, Chad and Kale, and many nieces and nephews.

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Paul J Schneider Jr. - March 19, 1933 - January 06, 2023

Departed: 01/06/2023 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Paul J. Schneider II, age 89 passed away on January 6, 2023, in Red Lodge, MT.

Paul was born to Dr. Paul J. and Lois Schneider of Adams, on March 19, 1933. He graduated from Adams High School in Adams, Minnesota and then attended and graduated from St. John's University before attending the St. Louis College of Pharmacy where he graduated in 1965.

Paul married Virginia B. Schneider, in Chicago IL on August 23, 1958. Together Paul and Virginia had four children. Upon completing Pharmacy School, the family moved to Batavia, IL where Paul began his career in Pharmacy.

Paul had a multitude of interests including hunting, fishing, rock hounding, taxidermy, piano, radio-controlled aircraft, and even began building his own ultra-light aircraft. He was a "Mr. Fix It" and really enjoyed working with his hands. His curiosity would drive him to take something apart just to see how it worked. He was also quite creative in his painting and woodworking endeavors.

Paul is survived by three of his children, Paula (Jerry) Goodew of Raleigh, NC, P.J. (Wendy) Schneider of Belgrade, MT, and Barbara (Terry) Barnhart of Red Lodge, MT. He is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. He is survived by sister Suzanne (Michael) Sheedy, brother Tom (Marge) Schneider, sister-in-law Jean Schneider, brother in-law Loren Schneider, brother-in-law, and sister-in-law Lenny (Karen) Schneider as well as many nieces and nephews.

Paul is preceded in death by his wife Virginia, son David, his parents, brothers Pete, Bill, and Tim. He is also preceded by his sister-in-law Janet Schneider, and sister-in-law Georgene Resney, brother-in-law Michael Resney and sister-in-law Lenelle Howard.

Viewing will take place at Smith Olcott Funeral Chapel on Tuesday January 10 from 4-5 p.m. and at the church on Wednesday January 11 from 9-10 a.m.

Rosary vigil to be held at 5:00 p.m. at Smith Olcott Funeral Chapel. Funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Red Lodge with burial to follow at Red Lodge Cemetery. A light luncheon will follow back at the church fellowship hall.

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Angel Marie Krank - May 08, 2004 - December 06, 2022

Departed: 12/06/2022 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Angel Marie Krank went home to be with Jesus on Tuesday, December 6th, 2022. Angel was born in Billings, Montana to Natasha “Tasha” Marie Krank, and Cortney Ray Swenson on May 8th in 2004. She spent her entire life loving and being loved by all of her family. Her first 9 years were spent in Billings with her mother Tasha, and her 2 younger sisters Hope, and Faith playing, and loving, and taking care of each other. The last 9 years of her life were spent growing up in the countryside near Joliet, Montana being loved, cared for, and guided by her father Cortney, and stepmom Amanda Swenson. But no matter where she was in the world she always shared a special bond with her Grandma Jenna, who took such tender care of her, and always made sure she was ok. Angel spent so much wonderful time in her life with Grandma Jenna, and Grandpa Jim whom she adored, and loved to ride along with, and help take care of “The Old Ford.”

Angel was a caring soul who chose to show the world kindness, and gentleness, but was deeply protective of her friends, and family. She was imaginative, creative, artistic, funny, quietly thoughtful, and courageous. Her childhood dreams were to join the military, or become a police officer, EMT, or firefighter; she always wanted to be a helper. Angel graduated from Joliet High School in May of 2022; she truly enjoyed her time there and flourished under the care of the school's amazing teachers, and staff. Her most recent goals included joining the Air Force where she hoped to work in media production with the American Forces Network, and then attend film school in Bozeman, Montana.

Angel spent countless hours listening to music of all genres and loved to play Beat Saber because it combined gaming with her love of music. She likewise loved playing Mine Craft with her friends, and also found so much joy in going out to eat sushi and ramen with them, or crowding into the car for fast food runs, occasionally hanging out at the mall, especially working on film projects together, but mostly simply hanging out at someone’s home just spending time all together. She truly cherished and valued their friendship.

There was nothing Angel loved more than time spent with her family. She found so much comfort in being with them, and always looked forward to special occasions when she could be with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and her sisters, and just have everyone together. But her favorite place to be was at home where she could just be herself talking about her day and her dreams over family meals, cuddling up on the couch with her dogs Boone and Apollo to watch shows and movies with her family, and spend time in laughter joking around with Amanda and her dad whom she got her sense of humor, and quick wit from. We will forever miss her hugs, and the way her eyes sparkled when she laughed.

Angel will be deeply missed, until we meet again in Heaven, by her father Cortney Swenson, step-mother Amanda (Klein) Swenson, and mother Natasha Krank; sisters: Hope Krank, and Faith Krank; grandparents: Jim & Jenna Smith, and Terry & Charice Krank; great grandparents: Duane & Jeane Christensen, and Monty & Delores Braunstadter; aunts: Kelly (Paul) Duffield, Mellisa Krank, Ashley Krank, Dawn Klein, and Vanessa Ahles; uncles: Casey (Keshia) Swenson, and Jessie Krank; her great-aunt Julie Christensen whom she shared a special relationship with; great uncles: Doug (Linda) Swenson, Ron Swenson, Doug (Kevin) Christensen, and Dan (Carrie) Christensen; great aunts: Debbie Diercks, Cindy (Ron) Herman, and Jolene Kimmel; and numerous other great-aunts & great-uncles, cousins, and close friends whom she considered to be more like family. She was welcomed home to Heaven by her grandfather Ray Swenson, great-grandmother Jeanette Christensen, great-grandparents Paul & Irma Swenson, Cousin Casandra Lorenz, grandparents Dennis “Butch” & Connie Klein, and great-uncle Leonard Diercks.

Please join us for a memorial service honoring Angel’s life on Saturday December 17th at 1 o’clock in the afternoon at the First Congregational Church in Laurel, Montana. A luncheon will be provided by the Dorcas in the fellowship hall following the service.

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Lloyd Nicholls Cowger - May 06, 1929 - September 12, 2022

Departed: 09/12/2022 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Lloyd Nicholls (Nicky) Cowger, age 93, passed away September 12, 2022, at Riverstone Hospice House in Billings, Montana.

Nicky was born May 6, 1929, in Billings, Montana to Lloyd Arlington Cowger and Alma Nicholls Cowger. He joined older brother David on the family ranch west of Red Lodge. Nicky went on to devote his life to running and growing the ranch.

He married Agnes Maude Allison on June 1, 1951, in Red Lodge. They started their family together and welcomed daughter Malinda Rose (Lindy) in 1952 and daughter Susan Marie (Susy) in 1955. They worked together for 64 years before Agnes passed away August 14, 2015. In addition to working the ranch Nicky found time to enjoy fly fishing and hunting. He had many outdoor adventures with family and friends and loved to share stories of those treasured times. He also had many fun and exciting escapades with his beloved Labs - those were the best of times!

Nicky had a knack for repairing broken machinery and that talent came in handy when neighbors needed his expertise. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. It’s no surprise that driving his favorite tractor and taking care of his cows was his definition of a perfect day.

Nicky was honored to have many good neighbors and friends, who came to be like family. One of these special friends was Dan Hallock. Dan worked alongside Nicky and Lindy for many, many years. They forged a deep and abiding friendship that brought much joy to their lives.

Nicky is survived by daughters Lindy Cowger and Susy (Kerry) Kegel, nieces Pat Kilwine (Ian Meikle) and Marilyn Cowger and nephew Bill (Teresa) Beyl, “adopted grandsons” Rusty Ellis, Scott Ellis, Gary Ellis, and “adopted granddaughter” Bridgett Ellis Chartier, and their children. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother Frederick David (David), wife Agnes and special brother-in-law James B. Allison.

The family sends sincere thanks to the amazing caregivers at Riverstone Hospice House in Billings, as well as the nursing staff at Beartooth Billings Clinic in Red Lodge.

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Edwin T Klessens - March 30, 1933 - September 05, 2022

Departed: 09/05/2022 (Red Lodge)

Obituary Preview: Edwin T. Klessens age, 89 passed away on September 5th, 2022, and if he had his way that is where this obituary would end!

He was born in Red Lodge March 30th, 1933, the 10th child of Cornelius and Maria Klessens, he grew up on a farm in Red Lodge, met the love of his life, Eilene Heinselman at a dance, and to his surprise she said yes to a dance, and later to 49 years of marriage until her passing in 2003.

Ed worked several different jobs in Red Lodge, Laurel and Bridger, including driving a gas truck to Cooke City over Beartooth Pass, until around 1968 when he started work on the Ellis Cattle Company, a job he loved, and had fond memories of hunting, fishing, and raising a family on the ranch, where they could go to the same school in Luther he did as a young boy. In 1988 he retired from the Ellis Cattle Co. and moved to Luther, but didn’t stay retired for long…… around 1990 he went back to work for the County Shop until retiring in 1995, but not for long…… His brother Jim hired him to help on the ranch until finally retiring for good around 2000.

Ed is survived by his Daughter’s Linda (Jim) Loyning, Kathy (David) Strum, and his son David (Cheryl) Klessens, Grandchildren JD (Jacq) Loyning, Mike Loyning. Jolene Strum, Jillian (Andy) Miller, Nathan (Holly) Strum. Darcy (Brad Rosenquist, Fiancée), Chris Klessens. Great Grandchildren, Austin and Zada Loyning, and Corbyn and Tavryn Miller, Baby Rosenquist on the way. He is also survived by his brother Jim (Sue) Klessens, and Sister-in-Law Marlene Klessens and “adopted daughters” Ann Ballard, Jean (Ballard) Woodwick. “adopted” Granddaughter Hillary Snell. Preceding him in death, Son’s Larry David Klessens and Donald Klessens.

Service will be held at 11:00 AM, September 14th at Saint Agnes Catholic Church in Red Lodge. Ed was generous to charitable organizations in life and would be grateful in lieu of flowers, donations were made to the Beartooth Cupboards Food Bank in Red Lodge.

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Our Facilities

The funeral home is located at 201 North Broadway, Red Lodge, MT, 59068, and features a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The facility is designed to provide a comfortable and intimate setting for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. With ample parking and easy accessibility, Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel is convenient for families from all over the region.

Funeral Services

Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel offers a wide range of funeral services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funerals and memorial services to cremations and celebrations of life, their experienced team will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's memory. They also offer pre-planning services, allowing you to make arrangements in advance and ensure that your wishes are respected.

Cremation Options

For families who choose cremation, Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel offers a variety of options to suit their needs. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, their team will guide you through the process with compassion and understanding. They also offer urn selection and other memorialization options to help you honor your loved one's memory.

Pre-Planning

Planning ahead can be a thoughtful and responsible decision, ensuring that your wishes are respected and relieving your loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions during a difficult time. Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel offers pre-planning services, allowing you to make arrangements in advance and secure your preferences. Their experienced team will guide you through the process, answering any questions you may have and providing guidance every step of the way.

Community Involvement

Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel is committed to giving back to the community they serve. They participate in local events and charities, supporting organizations that benefit families in need. Their team is also active in professional associations, staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in funeral service.

Grief Support

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, but you don't have to face it alone. Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel offers grief support resources to help you navigate the healing process. From counseling services to support groups, their team is dedicated to providing comfort and guidance during this difficult time.

Contact Us

If you're looking for a funeral home that truly cares about your family's needs, look no further than Smith-Olcott Funeral Chapel. Contact them today to learn more about their services or to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced funeral directors. You can reach them by phone at [insert phone number] or by email at [insert email address].

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 other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform 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 can be a meaningful way to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by the family of the deceased or a close friend. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also assist in writing and submitting the obituary to newspapers or online platforms.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral services, memorials, or charitable donations.

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 a few sentences to a short paragraph.

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 nice way to personalize the tribute and help readers connect with the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. You may need to provide the written obituary, along with payment for publication.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms and websites that allow you to publish an obituary. These may include funeral home websites, online memorial sites, or social media platforms.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Newspapers often charge a fee based on the length of the obituary and the number of days it will run. Online platforms may offer free or paid options.

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

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Newspapers typically publish obituaries within a day or two of submission, while online platforms may post them immediately.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. However, this depends on the publication or platform's policies and procedures.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It is often used in conjunction with a full obituary.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice announcing a person's death and providing biographical information. A eulogy is a speech or written tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service to celebrate the person's life and legacy.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is possible to write your own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on your life and legacy. Keep in mind that your family may still need to review and finalize the content before publication.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites. Local libraries or historical societies may also have archives of past newspapers that you can access.

Can I use an obituary as part of my genealogy research?

Yes, obituaries can be a valuable resource for genealogists. They often provide detailed information about ancestors' lives, relationships, and migrations.

What if I'm unable to find an obituary for my loved one?

If you're having trouble finding an obituary, try contacting local funeral homes, libraries, or historical societies for assistance. They may have access to archives or resources that can help you locate the information you're looking for.

Can I create an online memorial for my loved one?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to create a memorial page for your loved one. These pages can include photos, stories, and tributes from friends and family.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform or website. Some may keep them active indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I share an obituary on social media?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to share links to obituaries on social media sites like Facebook or Twitter. This can be a convenient way to notify friends and family of a loved one's passing.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider reaching out to a funeral home or professional writer for assistance. They can guide you through the process and help you craft a meaningful tribute to your loved one.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, including quotes or poems that were meaningful to the deceased can add a personal touch to the obituary and help celebrate their life.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately to report the issue. They should be able to correct the mistake as soon as possible.

Can I use humor in an obituary?

Yes, incorporating humor into an obituary can be a great way to celebrate the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to keep it tasteful and respectful.

What if I want to keep the details of my loved one's passing private?

You can choose not to include certain details about your loved one's passing in the obituary if you prefer. However, keep in mind that some information may be necessary for legal or administrative purposes.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes, including information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers can be a meaningful way to honor your loved one's memory and support their favorite causes.