Blog — Heritage Blog

Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes

First Christmas In Heaven

First Christmas in Heaven

A Memorial Service for our Community

Monday, December 9, 2024 at 7 PM

Berean Church

1574 Coit Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505

As we anticipate the upcoming holidays, we remember those in our community that face the holiday season for the first time without their loved one.

Join us as we take an opportunity to remember the loved ones we have lost during this past year and celebrate the hope we have in Christ. There will be a simple, meaningful service and dessert reception to follow. If you would like your loved one remembered as part of our service, register by December 3, 2024 by calling 616.361.2613 or by filling out the RSVP form below. Those registering and submitting a photo will receive a free memorial Christmas ornament.


Share

What to say when someone passes away…

What to say when someone passes away…

When an acquaintance loses a loved one, what do you say? When you see them at work, in the grocery store, reunion? What about attending a visitation or service? Knowing what to say and what not to say to someone who has experienced loss can be nerve-racking. Here is the bottom line: take a minute and consider the loss to you.

A Race Well Run

A Race Well Run

Tom Kunst was known to all as a friend, but to a treasured few; beloved husband, father and Papa. Tom died tragically while doing something he loved, training on his bicycle. Over the years, Tom became an avid competitor. Competition soon became a family affair, often including his wife and sons. Tom loved being with his family, pushing himself physically and being out in God’s creation.

Lately we find ourselves in spaces that feel upended and abnormal. Nothing feels routine or familiar. We have adapted, adjusted and let go of things that seem an impossibility. But where does that leave grief? Where does that leave this family who tragically loses its patriarch?

,

The Gift of a Fingerprint

,
The Gift of a Fingerprint

“We wanted to change a day of mourning into a day of good joy and memories,” Kathleen said. 

After planning their father’s funeral at Heritage, one of the sisters noticed a Thumbies brochure she had received. Thumbies are personalized charms created from actual fingerprints, handprints or footprints. Combining modern scanning technology with the ancient art of lost wax casting, Thumbies fashions the prints into artistic and intricately detailed sterling silver or gold jewelry. 

Canadian Club and Champagne Toasts

Canadian Club and Champagne Toasts

It was only fitting that Dar’s visitation on Tuesday night reflected who she was and what she loved—an evening full of family, friends, laughter, food and of course, her favorite drink, Canadian Club. With an open bar serving wine, beer (and yes, Canadian Club!) and soft drinks, along with a spread of artisan cheese, the gathering at the Alt & Shawmut Chapel felt more like a night out with friends than a funeral visitation.

Drumroll, Please!

Drumroll, Please!

“Do we need a drumroll?” Life Story Funeral Director Matt Hollebeek asked the fifth graders at All Saints Academy on Tuesday morning.

“Yessssss!” they shouted and immediately began pounding on their desks in anticipation of the big announcement—this year’s winner of the 8th Annual Heritage Life Story Writing Contest.

“Here we go,” Matt shouted. “The winner of the big check is…AUSTIN PHILLIPS!!”

And The Winner Is...

And The Winner Is...

“Yay!” “Go, Kyler!” “Nice work!” And other cheers erupted around the room as Kyler Berghuis made his way to the front to claim his oversized check (a highlight for all the kids!). The prize? A $500 scholarship toward Kyler’s tuition.

Kyler interviewed Dr. Joseph Taylor for the contest. Dr. Taylor worked as a pediatrician at ABC Pediatrics for 44 years and now lives next door to Kyler.

Caramel Corn with a Side of 'Honey'

Caramel Corn with a Side of 'Honey'

The family decided to do a natural (or green) burial for Clara. A green burial is one that uses only biodegradable materials. A natural burial utilizes simple, sustainable materials so that nature may take its course following the natural rhythms of life.

“This was all a work of love by her family,” said Life Story Funeral Director Paul Uzarski. “The family participated in every step of the process, even helping to wash and prepare Clara’s body.”