|
Depends a lot about who died and when. There's different needs by the family and community depending on the circumstances.
Vash, I suspect that if you died suddenly, you'd get a pretty sweet funeral whether you wanted one or not.
My FIL was very social and active in his church and community where he'd lived for 40 years. He was also a bit of a character. He died after a relatively short (months not years) battle with cancer. His funeral was quite special and well attended. The stories and outpouring of sympathy were terrific.
My Dad died about 2 years later. He'd battled Alzheimers for 10 years. Part of what makes AD so nasty is that the illness is so extended. It's easy for relationships dwindle. You come to realize that the "people" you know and love are actually their mind. Their death spans a decade as their mind slips away. My Dad wanted to be cremated, and he'd not have wanted a big fuss - - he didn't get one. But it was nice to see some old friends come back to pay their last respects. It meant a lot for my mom. For me, a big funeral for my dad would have been hard. I was exhausted and ready to move on.
I don't want a funeral either - - seems like a waste of money - - and I don't like seeing people sad. But I totally get that my family may feel otherwise. And if they feel so inclined, I'd prefer they throw a really good party with an open bar and a band.
|