Martenson COVID 19 Update

April 7, 2020

Martenson COVID 19 Update

4/7/2020

The health and well-being of the families we serve, friends, neighbors and staff is our top priority. But we also wanted you to know that you can still have a public visitation and funeral service for your loved one.

Because of the large square footage of Martenson Family of Funeral Homes, we can still host public gatherings at this time.  We also want to assure you that we are complying with state mandated safety regulations to help keep our community safe.

Effective at 12:01 AM, March 24, 2020 and through 11:59 PM, April 30, 2020 the Governor of the State of Michigan has issued EXECUTIVE ORDER No. 2020-21 which is the temporary requirement to suspend activities that are not necessary to sustain or protect life. Within this Executive Order, death care services (funeral and crematory) have been designated as essential to the public health. Therefore, the Martenson family of Funeral Homes will continue to operate.

Although public visitations, funerals and burial services are capped at 50 persons within one space, they may still be held. We also have live-streaming for services for those wishing to have the service on Facebook.

We are following the suggested social distancing guidelines. Food-sharing is being discouraged, so we do ask that you do not bring food.

Of course, if you’d rather wait until this Executive Order is lifted to allow you to have a larger visitation, funeral and burial, we can help you with options for that, as well.

Additionally, you’re always welcome to come in and meet in person. We’ve set up large, private meeting spaces in which the funeral arrangement conference is held. If you to prefer to meet via phone, that is also an option.

Our goal is to work with you during your very difficult time to help you find the most fitting tribute for your loved one. In compliance with this Executive Order, and for the safety of our employees, we will be cutting back on daily staffing hours and only calling our employees in, as needed. Rest assured though, all of our great employees are only a phone call away to help meet your needs. And, our phones are still being answered 24 hours a day.

Every life lived is beautifully unique and should be celebrated in the same way. We are here to help you plan a service that honors your loved one and aids in the process toward healing.

John Martenson, Jr.

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Personalized Merchandise : Offering personalized merchandise can provide attendees with keepsakes that remind them of their loved one. Custom printed memorial bookmarks, candles, or photo books featuring cherished moments can serve as lasting mementos. You could also consider unique items like custom jewelry containing a portion of the deceased's ashes or engraved with their handwriting. Interactive Memory Stations : Setting up stations where attendees can share their favorite memories or write messages can foster a sense of community and shared remembrance. You could provide a memory tree where guests can hang notes or photos, or a digital photo booth to capture heartfelt moments and messages during the service. Unique Tributes : Consider incorporating elements that reflect the individual’s hobbies or achievements. For an avid gardener, you might hand out packets of their favorite seeds or plant a memorial tree. For a sports enthusiast, displaying memorabilia and encouraging guests to wear team colors can create a sense of unity and celebration. Digital Tributes : Embracing technology can add a modern touch to traditional services. Live streaming the service allows distant friends and family to participate. Creating a tribute website or social media page where people can share stories, photos, and condolences helps keep the memory alive long after the service. By thoughtfully incorporating these creative elements, you can craft a funeral service that truly honors the life and legacy of your loved one, providing solace and connection for all who attend.