What to Expect
A step-by-step guide to the funeral planning and service experience.
Your Funeral Service Journey
Understanding the Funeral Service Process
Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, especially while you're grieving. Understanding what to expect at each stage can help ease anxiety and allow you to focus on honoring your loved one. At Proko Funeral Home, we guide families through every step of the process with compassion and expertise.
Whether you're arranging services immediately after a death or have had time to plan ahead, knowing what's involved helps you make informed decisions and feel more confident during this difficult time.
Step by Step
The Funeral Planning Timeline
Initial Call & First Steps
When you call Proko Funeral Home, our staff will help you arrange transportation of your loved one and provide immediate guidance. We'll answer your questions and begin discussing your options and preferences.
Arrangement Conference
You'll meet with one of our funeral directors for an in-depth arrangement conference. This typically takes 1-3 hours. We'll discuss service options, products, pricing, and help you select what's right for your family.
Finalize Service Details
Once you've decided on the type of service, we'll help you plan the specifics—timing, venue, flowers, music, readings, and any special touches that make the service meaningful for your family.
Viewing or Visitation
If you've chosen to have a viewing, family and friends will have the opportunity to pay their respects. This is a time for shared memories and support before the service.
The Funeral Service
The service is where friends and family gather to honor your loved one. Whether religious, secular, or personalized, we ensure everything runs smoothly and respectfully.
Committal & Reception
Following the service, there may be a committal at the cemetery or crematory, followed by a reception where family and friends gather to share memories and support one another.
Follow-Up Support
Our support doesn't end with the service. We provide grief resources, referrals to counselors, and ongoing support to help you navigate the weeks and months ahead.
The Arrangement Meeting
What Happens During Your Arrangement Conference
The arrangement conference is where major decisions are made. Here's what to expect:
Discussing Service Options
Your funeral director will explain the different types of services available—traditional funeral, cremation, memorial service, celebration of life—and help you understand which might be right for your loved one and family.
Selecting Products
You'll discuss and select caskets, urns, vaults, and other products based on your preferences and budget. We have options at various price points to fit your needs.
Reviewing Pricing
We provide an itemized price list so you understand exactly what each service and product costs. There are no surprises—we're transparent about all charges.
Discussing Service Details
You'll plan specifics like the date and time of services, location, flowers, music, readings, and any special requests. This is where you personalize the service to honor your loved one.
Completing Documents
We'll help you complete the necessary paperwork, including death certificates, permits, and any other required documentation.
Answering Questions
Our experienced funeral directors answer any questions you have and provide guidance on what to expect throughout the process.
Your Choices
Understanding Service Options
Traditional Funeral Service
Includes viewing or visitation, a formal funeral service with the deceased present, and committal at the cemetery or crematory. Allows time for family and friends to gather and pay respects.
Cremation Services
The deceased is cremated, and families can hold a memorial service before or after cremation. Offers flexibility in timing and location of the service, with multiple options for ash disposition.
Memorial Service
A service held without the deceased present, typically scheduled after cremation. Allows more time for family to gather and share memories in a personalized way.
Celebration of Life
An informal, personalized gathering focused on celebrating the person's life. Can be held at any location and includes activities, memories, and personal touches reflecting their personality.
Graveside Service
A brief service held at the cemetery. Can be a simple family gathering or a more formal ceremony, allowing for a meaningful tribute at the place of rest.
Direct Cremation
The most economical option with no service included. Families can hold a memorial service later if desired, or simply receive the cremated remains.
Preparation
What to Bring to Your Arrangement Conference
To make your arrangement conference smoother, bring these items if available:
- Social Security number and date of birth of the deceased
- Birthplace information and military service details (if applicable)
- Employer and work history information
- Names and contact information for family members
- Life insurance policy information
- Pre-need arrangements if already made
- Obituary information or notes about the person
- Preferences on music, readings, or special requests
- Photos you may want displayed
- Clothing preferences for the deceased
The Day Arrives
What to Expect on the Day of the Service
We Handle the Details
On the day of service, our entire staff is focused on ensuring everything runs smoothly. We'll have staff members greeting guests, directing people to seating, managing flowers and tributes, and ensuring all the special details you planned are executed perfectly. Your role is simply to be present and support your family through this meaningful time.
Before the Service
- Arrive early to greet family and friends as they arrive
- Take time with immediate family in a private area
- Our staff will review the service program with you
- Participate in any pre-service ceremonies or traditions
During the Service
- The service will proceed according to your plans
- Readings, music, and personal touches will be honored
- Family will be given opportunities to speak if desired
- Our staff discreetly manages logistics in the background
After the Service
- Transition to committal or reception if planned
- Receive flowers and tributes (we can arrange delivery later)
- Receive memorial items and condolences from guests
- Discuss any final arrangements with your funeral director
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the arrangement conference take?
Most arrangement conferences last 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of your decisions and the number of questions you have. We never rush families—we take as much time as you need.
What if I can't afford everything I want?
We offer services and products at many price points and are happy to discuss your budget openly. We'll help you prioritize what's most important and create a meaningful service within your means.
Can I change my mind about service choices?
Yes. As long as changes can be accommodated within your timeline, we'll work with you to modify your arrangements.
What happens if the service date needs to be changed?
Contact us as soon as possible. We'll do our best to accommodate schedule changes, though some changes may affect availability or require adjustments to other arrangements.
Will I receive an itemized bill?
Yes. We provide a detailed, itemized price list showing every service and product with its cost. You'll know exactly what you're paying for before committing to anything.
Are there financing options available?
Yes. We offer financing options to help make funeral services more affordable. Ask our staff about available payment plans and options.
Ready to Plan?
Contact Us Today
If you have questions about what to expect or are ready to begin planning, please reach out. Our caring staff is available 24 hours a day to assist you.