Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and often overwhelming experience.
Grief varies from person to person, shaped by their relationship with the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the loss.
“Grief is inevitable when it comes to loss, and people go through grief differently. There’s not just one clear-cut way to deal with it, but it’s always there,” says Erick Scheiderman, Funeral Director at Sequim Valley Chapel.
Even when a loved one’s passing is anticipated, such as in cases of terminal illness, the actual loss can still be profoundly impactful.
“Even though they’ve had that anticipatory grief, they’re not prepared, they’re not ready, and they start that process all over again,” explains Scheiderman, highlighting the importance of respecting each person’s grieving process.
Sequim Valley Chapel supports families beyond the funeral arrangements with a range of grief support services. Each family receives a comprehensive packet of local grief resources, including information about Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County, which offers monthly grief support workshops and other educational resources such as their Soul Speaker Series and Death Cafes. These resources provide families with various ways to engage with their grief, seek community support and begin the healing journey.
“We see ourselves as an extension of hospice,” Scheiderman says. “Hospice cares for individuals and provides support to their families at the end stage of life, and then the funeral home gets involved. We both have the same mission to continue caring for these families after the death occurs.”
Sequim Valley Chapel’s commitment to care extends long after the funeral service, staying connected with families, especially on significant dates, such as their loved one’s birthday or the anniversary of their passing.
This ongoing support helps families feel remembered and cared for during these particularly challenging times. “Once we’ve had the opportunity and privilege of serving families, they walk away as friends, and friends lean on each other when needed,” Scheiderman says.
The holiday season can be especially tough for those grieving a loss. To provide additional support, Sequim Valley Chapel hosts an annual holiday remembrance ceremony, inviting families to come together in a shared space of remembrance and support. The ceremony includes reading the names of the deceased and a video tribute, offering a collective way to honor and remember loved ones.
In these spaces where grief is acknowledged and shared, families find comfort and solidarity, reinforcing their commitment to ongoing care. In a world where grief is often a solitary experience, Sequim Valley Chapel offers a compassionate, community-oriented approach that truly makes a difference.
To learn more about the services offered by Sequim Valley Chapel, contact their friendly staff at 360-683-5242 or visit sequimvalleychapel.com.
