Grieving a loved one’s passing is deeply personal and can be overwhelming, with each person’s grief shaped by their unique relationship to the deceased and the circumstances of 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 Karin Mikkelsen, Funeral Director Intern at Harper-Ridgeview Funeral Home
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 Mikkelsen, highlighting the importance of respecting each person’s grieving process.
Harper-Ridgeview Funeral Home extends its care to families beyond funeral services by offering a variety of grief support resources. Each family is provided with a detailed packet of local grief services, including information about the Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County. This organization hosts monthly grief support workshops and educational programs like the Soul Speaker Series and Death Cafes. These resources give families multiple opportunities to connect with their grief, find community support, and start the healing process.
“We see ourselves as an extension of hospice,” Mikkelsen 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.”
Harper-Ridgeview Funeral Home continues to support families well beyond the funeral service, maintaining contact on meaningful dates like their loved one’s birthday or the anniversary of their passing. This lasting connection reflects their ongoing commitment to care.
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,” Mikkelsen says.
Harper-Ridgeview Funeral Home provides a caring, community-focused approach that genuinely impacts those they serve.
To learn more about the services offered by Harper-Ridgeview Funeral Home, contact their friendly staff at 360-452-9701 or visit harper-ridgeviewfuneralchapel.com.
