Relatives often experience traditional funerals of the deceased as impersonal and stressful – something Ulrike Friedl and Yvonno Leeb want to change with their new project ‘Tamo Funerals’. krone.at asked the two funeral directors what it was about and what helps mourners.
“We met at work and were both interested in opening an alternative funeral home in Vienna,” says Yvonno Leeb. ‘Tamo’ has been around since the beginning of May and the focus is on guiding relatives between death and funeral. “We are talking about reference burials. If I answer the phone, I will actually come and pick up (the deceased, ed.),” Leeb explains. An attempt is made to remove the hectic pace and create a framework for a quiet farewell
Funeral as care work
What further support is provided until the funeral depends on the surviving relatives. These could be rituals, the organization of a priest for a funeral or even a concert or eulogy.
In addition, “Tamo Funerals” also organizes documents such as the death certificate, helps with contact with insurance companies and with deregistrations. Such organizational matters can be overwhelming and annoying during the grieving phase. “But we don’t take over everything, but ensure that people acquire self-reliance. We see our work as care work,” says Ulrike Friedl, a trained grief counselor who writes speeches.
Although people’s needs vary greatly, they are all looking for something comforting. These can be small things, such as beautiful flowers, a very fitting eulogy or sometimes a final meeting with the deceased. Another important point: the deceased – his character and life story – must be visible in the farewell. “Tamo Funerals” wants to encourage mourners to personalize their journey.
“People also develop as a result”
“Grief has many faces,” says Ulrike Friedl. People can not only get off track, but also develop as a result. This perspective is still rarely taken up in public debates. Overall, there is a trend today that sadness should be more visible. The two agree that this is a good thing. They suggest more education and public relations work, such as workshops for educators, students and workplaces. This could improve the situation for relatives in the event of a death and make it more normal to talk about death and grief.
“Many people are afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing. “But it is completely wrong to avoid contact with grieving people,” says Leeb. The recommendation is not to avoid those affected, to talk to them, perhaps spend time together and ask if support is needed. Even little things like shopping and cooking together can help. Anyone who is unsure can seek advice from others and ask the person concerned about his or her needs.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
