Carol Van Ahlers

 For me, a week full of rain always brings to mind that iconic Carpenter’s song Rainy Days and Mondays. I can feel myself start to hum the tune when the grey skies linger. Lyrics, that have found a place in the deep storage crevices of my mind, are brought forth by the persistent raindrops, whether […]

Mary Oliver is one of the best loved and well-known American poets. She passed away at the age of 83 in 2019 leaving a legacy of poems that explore the interconnectedness of life, nature and the inevitability of loss. She has several poems that touch on themes of grief and loss and the natural cycles

For me, moving from one year to another always brings with it a sense of optimism. I set about following resolutions I’ve made with the goal of improving myself and my life. Looking forward, leaving the past behind, always seems to feel good. This year, I’m trying something different. Rather than focusing on what’s ahead,

In an article earlier this year published in the Well Section of the New York Times, author Jancee Dunn focuses on the challenge of knowing what to do when you know someone you love is upset. What can you say that will allow the person to know you care but gives them the ability to

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season, something that many welcome with joy and anticipation. But for some people, this is the start of a very difficult time. Between now and the end of the year, we will use the platform of our bi-weekly blog to help those who are grieving (and the people

During the days running up to Thanksgiving, most of us focus on the food. We can smell the turkey and dream about the stuffing, gramma’s sweet potato casserole and pies, lots of pies. But after the feast, when it’s time to reflect on what was special about the day, our thoughts turn to family, fun

As expected, much has changed in the funeral industry over the past century, as it has in so many other aspects of our world. The most significant, is the growth of the industry itself. These changes have impacted how individuals approach end-of-life planning and commemoration. Dedicated funeral homes are now the norm, taking the place

In recent blogs we’ve discussed the importance of taking care of yourself this holiday season. We also provided an easy way to reach out to someone who is grieving, letting them know with one simple question that you are there for them however they may need you. Now is the time to share some tips

Every October, we like to reflect on our history, something of which we are very proud. It was 1927 when Reverend Samuel Hilgenfeld and his wife Lydia opened Hilgenfeld Mortuary in Anaheim. The fact that our business is fourth-generation family owned makes us doubly proud. Our family has been here for nearly 100 years, serving

In addition to ensuring that price lists are updated and easily accessible to grieving families, the Funeral Rule regulations also cover specific areas of funeral services and products. These regulations ensure transparency of what can be an overwhelming number of choices and decisions. Customers cannot be required to purchase services or goods as a package.