Losing someone precious to you is an extremely difficult period in your life. Keeping the memory of a loved one alive can be a very cathartic process for those left behind, and there are several ways that you can choose to remember someone after they are gone.
When deciding how to memorialize someone close to you, take some time to reflect on the person they were and what they might appreciate. If you are looking for some ideas, consider a few of the solutions listed below for some inspiration.
1. Plant A Tree in Memory
When you plant a tree gift in someone’s memory, you are providing a tribute that will be appreciated for many years. Some services will ship the appropriate tree to a specified address, such as a homestead, at the proper time to be planted, along with planting or care instructions. Alternatively, you can choose to have your memorial tree planted in a community reforestation project, with the recipient’s family being sent a personalized commemorative card. Look for “plant a tree gift” online for more information.
2. Dedicate A Bench
If there is a park or special path that your loved one enjoyed in life, perhaps you could have a memorial bench placed with a plaque denoting their life. Dedicating a bench to a local park or beach is a thoughtful as well as practical donation in their memory. Be sure to check the local ordinances and get the proper permit before placing your memorial bench. Donating in this form benefits the community while remembering your loved one.
3. Donate In Their Name
If your loved one regularly volunteered for or donated to a charity, consider continuing their legacy of good deeds in their name. You could also continue to donate time and service to the preferred organization in their honor to keep the memory alive, or you can make a monetary donation in their name. Charities depend on the generosity of their donors and appreciate an ongoing relationship in memoriam moving forward.
4. Yearly Memorial Release
To keep the memory of a loved one alive many people and their families have turned to yearly memorial release events. Often using the deceased date of birth or another significant date, friends and families release lanterns or butterflies into the air at a designated time to celebrate the memory of their loved one. Of note, while balloons were often used in the past, we now understand how bad it is for the environment, so please do not release balloons into the air.
A Lasting Tribute
Setting up a memorial for a loved one passed in the form of monetary donations or service is a thoughtful gift that continues to give. Alternatively, search for “plant a tree gift” online to find a service that will plant a tree in memory of your loved one. No matter which gift you choose to remember your loved one, it will be a beautiful sentiment that will last.
