Reflecting During the Holidays.

This is a time for gathering and reflecting.  Many of us have lost beloved family members in 2015.  That is the most difficult thing to come to terms with this holiday season.  And yet, if it was a life well lived it is also a time to reflect on the many beautiful holidays that your loved one was able to spend with your family.

Cherish the moments.  The people that surround you this holiday season may be those that you rarely see, but have known for many years.  Time, jobs, marriage, and other factors may have caused you to move in different directions throughout the years.  Be very grateful that you are together as a family this holiday season.

Your friends at Colonial Funerals wish you the happiest and healthiest holiday of all in 2015.  

10 Ways to Get in the Holiday Spirit

10 Ways to Get in the Holiday Spirit Now in Connecticut

It’s a magical time of the year for fun family festivities, joys of the season and holiday cheer all across the state! From holiday festivals, cultural performances, handmade gifts and artisan crafts to chocolate decadence, spectacular holiday lights shows and outdoor fun, you’ll find an abundance of events and activities to get you in the holiday spirit!

The Pain of Losing a Loved One During the Holidays.

There is nothing more painful than losing a loved one during the holidays.  A normally joyous time of year has been turned upside down by a family tragedy.  We hope this has not happened to you during this holiday season.  If it has our thoughts and prayers are with you.

One thing that you do not need at this time of loss is extra stress.  You are still trying to live your life for the younger people in your life that are planning on having a happy holiday season, while you are planning funeral arrangements for a beloved member of the family.  These two conflicting activities can be the most taxing thing that you will ever do.

If you live in the state of Connecticut please allow Colonial Funerals to help ease the pain and stress by making this process as cost effective as it can possibly be.  We will bring you to the same church and the same cemetery for thousands less.  Please give us a call and discover this fact for yourself at (203) 407-8899.

How Cremation Works.

Cremation is the process of burning a dead body at very high temperatures.  When the process is completed there remain only calcified bones which are then pulverized into ashes.  It is commonly understood that cremation is an inexpensive alternative to a funeral.  It certainly merits discussion with your family members.

How do you wish to spend eternity?  There are more options than perhaps you know.  When you opt for cremation your choices are many and varied.  More and more people are requesting that their ashes be placed in many different situations after death.  Of course, there are various laws and ordinances that must be adhered to, so make sure that you do your homework before making any decisions.

When you are faced with that ultimate task in life of pre-arranging your own funeral or planning the funeral of a loved one, please contact Colonial Funerals.  For many years our family has helped your family in this time of need.  We know that cost is always a consideration and we will help you save not splurge.  Call Colonial Funerals serving all of the great state of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.

Opening Night - Winterfest Hartford

OPENING NIGHT - WINTERFEST HARTFORD
Friday, Nov. 20th, 4-8pm
Celebrate the opening night of Winterfest Hartford with the Hall High Choraliers, DJ Cajar, Mayor Pedro Segarra and Santa Claus, of course. Then, follow Santa to the carousel for free rides from 5-8.

We Want You to Know the Price of a Funeral.

How many funeral homes actually say that?  Do they really want to quote a price and then abide by it without adding extras to the bereaved family?  That is not the reputation of most funeral homes.  You may have a pre-conceived notion of final expenses, but it always seems to add up with frills and extras that you just say yes to without considering because of your state of mind.

Let us introduce you to something refreshing.  The various prices of funerals right on our website.  And yes, we take you to the same cemetery for thousands less with the same care and compassion of any family funeral home in the state of Connecticut.

Discover this for yourself.  Visit our website at www.colonialfunerals.com.  You will notice that there are three basic packages listed on the site.  They are ALL more affordable than other funeral homes throughout the state.  You have enough stress already.  Make this experience as easy as possible.  Visit our website or give us a call at (203) 407-8899.

Hundreds Turn Out in New Haven to Say Goodbye to Slain West Haven Man

Peter Moraski, owner and funeral director of Colonial Funerals, provided the horse-drawn carriage, which carried Antoine Heath’s casket, encased in glass.  The procession gathered around in silence when the casket was first brought in, as the family said their tearful goodbyes.  After a prayer, Peter Moraski released three white doves.  “Even though we are placing him in the ground his spirit will live up in the sky and watch us all,” Moraski said. 

Read the full story, By Ryan Flynn, New Haven Register, http://www.nhregister.com/general-news/20151019/hundreds-turn-out-in-new-haven-to-say-goodbye-to-slain-west-haven-man

6th Annual Wine And Cheese Festival At Hopkins Vineyard

6th Annual Wine And Cheese Festival At Hopkins Vineyard 
Hopkins Vineyard, 25 Hopkins Road, New Preston, hosts its sixth annual wine and cheese festival.
Oct. 24 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What Do You Expect to Pay for Final Funeral Expenses?

When you think of final expenses at the end of a great life that has been well lived you are not thinking dollars and cents as you may do with most purchases. We are not thinking clearly at a time like that and our vulnerability could easily be taken advantage of.

Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut offers an alternative at this most stressful time.  If you should choose cremation we offer complete direct cremation for $950 with no advances!  It is a dignified final tribute to a loved one and should be considered carefully when making preparations for the departed.

We advise you to please consider cremation.  When you do we can assure you a dignified process at the lowest price in the state of Connecticut.  Isn’t that comforting?  Contact Colonial Funerals of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.  And please visit our beautiful new website at www.colonialfunerals.com for more information on a variety of services priced with value, professionalism, and dignity.

Funeral Arrangements Should Be Less Stressful

Making funeral arrangements is something that no one ever wants to have to go through--but at some point we all probably will.  At Colonial Funerals, proudly serving all of the state of Connecticut, we understand this and we want to make your experience as stress-free as it can possibly be.  Shouldn’t that be the highest priority of every funeral home?

At Colonial Funerals we do so by offering our prices up-front. We do this because we know in your time of grief, you don't need a pushy salesperson telling you what you need.  Funeral homes all over the country have gotten a deserved reputation for just such tactics.

We are a family owned and operated business. We are a business with a heart which is why we will work with you to make sure that your friend or loved one is given the best ceremony for the most affordable rate.  Nobody wants to negotiate price at a time like this.  Call Colonial Funerals of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899 and see for yourself what dignity combined with affordability is all about.

Connecticut Renaissance Faire

Connecticut Renaissance Faire 
Sat, Sun & Columbus Day OCT 3 THRU 25, 2015 10:30 am – 6 pm

100 Ways to Fall for Connecticut

100 Ways to Fall for Connecticut
"Fall in love with Connecticut this season – get out and explore the beautiful colors of New England fall foliage, pick the perfect pumpkin, plan an overnight stay at a charming inn or hike one of Connecticut’s many trails."

Pre-Need Funeral Arrangements

Everyone knows that pre-planning your funeral needs is the economically sound way to approach the inevitable.  Advanced funeral planning is very simple and stress-free which is a key reason to do it.  If for no other reason, think of your loved ones.  You will be saving them untold stress and hardship during difficult times.

Now, here’s the thing when you pre-arrange with a funeral home who already features the lowest prices in the state of Connecticut - you save even more!  That’s right…if you are making that important decision to pre-plan your final burial then why not save even more money and go to the same church and the same cemetery that the more expensive funeral homes take you.

Colonial Funerals is always the answer.  When the need arises and you need the help of a caring, concerned, and inexpensive alternative call Colonial Funeral Home.  They serve all of the state of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.

Affordable and Dignified Funeral.

A funeral is a somber and dignified event in your family’s life.  It celebrates the life of a loved one.  It does not, however, have to financially tax the survivors.  All of the proper elements of a funeral can and should be in place with the understanding that the living must be able to afford the service.

With Colonial Funerals of Connecticut you will save thousands of dollars.  Colonial brings you to the same church and same cemetery for much less than other funeral homes in the state charge.  It is an honor and a privilege to serve you and your family. 

Wherever you reside in the great state of Connecticut, Colonial Funerals is ready to serve you.  We know that in your time of grief you do not need to add to the grief with exorbitant funeral expenses.   

Contact Colonial Funerals of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.

Plainville Hot-Air 3-Day Balloon Festival Ready To Soar For 31st Year

Plainville Hot-Air 3-Day Balloon Festival
"The 31st annual Plainville Fire Company Hot Air Balloon Festival starts the evening of Friday, Aug. 28, continues all day Saturday, Aug. 29, and wraps up the the morning of Sunday, Aug. 30. But the highlight of the festival, the launch of about 25 hot-air balloons, happens at 6 a.m. on Saturday and on Sunday. And the balloons fly away quickly."

Funeral Arrangements Made Less Stressful.

A funeral is very difficult time for every loved one.  Making arrangements for a funeral should not add to the stress that you are already feeling. At Colonial Funerals, we understand this, and we want to make your experience as pleasant and stress free as it can possibly be.

We do so by offering our prices up-front. We do so because we know in your time of grief, the last thing that you need is a pushy salesperson telling you what you need.

We are a family owned and operated business…a business with a heart which is why we will work with you to make sure that your friend or loved one is given the best ceremony for the most affordable rate.

Call us today at (203) 407-8899 or visit our website at www.colonialfunerals.com and you will see our commitment to saving you money.   We are ready to serve your needs.  

41st Annual Milford Oyster Festival

41st Annual Milford Oyster Festival
Saturday, August 15, 2015, 10am - 6pm
The MILFORD OYSTER FESTIVAL has the largest variety of OYSTERS of any festival in the USA.

Cremation is More Popular than Ever.

It's no secret that life expectancy in the U.S. is trending upward. A person born today can expect to live eight years longer than someone born in the 1970s. But there's another trend you might not know about--and it's related not to what happens while we're alive, but rather to what happens to our bodies after we die.

Today the percentage of Americans who are being cremated is nearing 50%.  It is no longer a second choice alternative, but rather a sensible first choice for a family.  Families no longer stay in the old hometown the way they used to.  Since cremation is usually cheaper than burial (at least when you don't use a cemetery to bury the urn), it's an attractive prospect for people that simply do not have the budget for a full-fledged funeral.

Colonial Funerals understands the stress that your family is under and we are here to help you make those final arrangements and save you money along the way.  Please call Colonial Funerals to understand the benefits of cremation at (203) 407-8899.

34th Annual Savin Rock Festival

34th Annual Savin Rock Festival
Dates: Thursday-Sunday, July 23-26
Location: Old Grove Park, Palace Street, West Haven
Be Part of the Fun at the 34th Annual Savin Rock Festival!

Going to the Same Church and the Same Cemetery for Less Money.

How do you spend less on the necessary final expenses of a funeral?  The answer is really quite simple.  The problem is usually that there have been no pre-arranged plans for the final expenses of a loved one because few people want to consider it.

Colonial Funerals serving the great state of Connecticut is here to give you an honest and inexpensive experience at a most difficult time. So many funeral homes want to take advantage of you at your most vulnerable time. We promise that this is NOT, nor ever has been, our agenda.

If you have questions about a burial, funeral, cremation, etc. -we have a list of our prices from top to bottom, never ever trying to hide extra costs so that you never have to deal with a pushy individual who does not share your feelings at this time.  You're not buying a car so you should never be up-sold.

If you have had the unfortunate experience of losing a friend or loved one and you don't want to get buried in prices, then let us care for the final arrangements your loved one.

For more information on prices, options, etc, visit our website at www.colonialfunerals.com -  or contact us at (203) 407-8899.

The 24th Annual Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz

Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz
July 17-19th - FREE ADMISSION
“Music is full of surprises and we hope to have a few for you!”

A Dead Skunk…

Recently a dead skunk was placed at the doorway of Colonial Funerals of Hamden, Connecticut.  Now, Colonial has been serving all of the Nutmeg state for decades so you figure well, it’s just some kids playing a prank - maybe it was.  We will never know for sure.  But there is more to this story than meets the eye.  When a funeral home in a different state had the same thing happen AFTER they had advertised lower prices as well as caring service eyebrows were raised.

The beginning of the funeral home industry in America was in the 1750’s.  That is quite a tradition.  From the very beginning, funeral directors were guided by some sort of unwritten code not to talk price until the bereaved family was in their presence and VERY vulnerable.  Somewhere along the way some funeral directors realized that funerals are driven by cost just like the purchase of a home or car.

Colonial Funerals disposed of the unwanted dead skunk, but the odor of jealousy does not dissipate quite as quickly.  You can discover this for yourself by visiting them on the web at www.colonialfunerals.com or giving them a call at (203) 407-8899.  Dead skunks are for the middle of the road and don’t require funerals.

Headline Concerts on the New Haven Green 

Festival 2015 | June 12-27

 

Cheap is Not a Dirty Word.

When did the word “cheap” become a negative term?  Who among us does not want to get a bargain on our insurance, our food, our home, or our car?  If those necessary commodities are cheaper than they need to be don’t we rightfully celebrate that fact?  Getting a better deal on any necessity of life is something to proud of.  After all, if we overpay for things throughout our lives don’t we have to sacrifice something we want because of a lack of money?

What about funerals?  Oh no, don’t become indignant because no one wants to discuss THE MOST essential expenditure of one’s life!  Everyone must face it whether it is for a loved one or a pre-arrangement for yourself.  We all know that funeral homes are run by caring, empathetic people.  If the final outcome is always the same would you not want to save on the necessities of a funeral everything being equal?

Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut does everything for a family.  They also do one thing that the others do NOT do.  They keep the prices down.  Be it cremation or a full-fledged funeral you do not have to pay more for the same services that you can get anywhere else.  Find out for yourself.  Call Colonial Funerals at (203) 407-8899.  Or visit their beautiful new home on the web at www.colonialfunerals.com.

More than 200 activities ahead at Connecticut Trails Weekend
Get out of your homes Saturday and Sunday for Connecticut Trails Weekend.

The Skyrocketing Cost of a Burial Plot.

Would you pay ONE MILLION dollars for a burial plot?  Believe it or not in New York City people are paying up to that much for a final resting place.  While Connecticut is nothing like New York it is a fact that the cost of burials as well as the entire funeral process in general is skyrocketing.  The median cost of a funeral in the U.S. has shot up from $700 in 1960 to $7,000 in 2012 according to the National Funeral Directors Association.

Christopher Coutts, an Associate Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at Florida State University in Tallahassee, said the price of funerals, along with shifting cultural and religious attitudes, explains why cremations may become increasingly common.  In 2012, 43 percent of Americans chose to be cremated; in 1960, that number was 4 percent.

In the final analysis, it is a necessary evil that we must face for ourselves and our loved ones.  There is nothing we can do about the rising cost that comes with the end of one’s life.  The only logical solution is to contact Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut.  They will discuss a proper final tribute for your loved one at a very reasonable cost.  Give Colonial Funerals a call at (203) 407-8899 or visit their new website for more details at www.colonialfunerals.com.

A Time for Mom.

May is the time of year when thoughts turn to mom.  Mother’s Day may have come and gone, but moms all over Connecticut and around the world should be honored 365 days a year.  Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut hopes that you will remember mom if she is no longer with us, or praise her each day if you are fortunate enough to have her around.

The tradition of Mother’s Day goes back more than 100 years and has grown ever since.  Around the turn of the century there were even “Mother’s Day work clubs” to teach women how to properly care for their children.  By 1912 many states, towns and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday.

The truth is the bond between mother and child begins many months before that baby enters the world and grows exponentially from there.  Here at Colonial Funerals we honor your mom and all moms this time of year and always.  If and when you need the services of a caring and fairly priced funeral home, please contact Colonial Funerals serving the great state of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.

How Much Does the Average Funeral Cost?

It is estimated that the average American funeral costs $6000.  If you believe that statistic I have a bridge in Central Connecticut for sale.  Unfortunately, this $6,000 estimate is several years old and doesn’t take into consideration the additional expenses associated with burial in a cemetery and the purchase of a headstone.  Once all funeral-related costs are factored in, the typical traditional funeral service will cost the average family closer to $8,000 – $10,000.

These additional goods and services that add another $2,000 to $4,000 to the price of a funeral is where the family gets stuck.  Unfortunately, many families do not find this out until after they have signed a contract for the funeral services with the funeral director.

This situation will occur in every family from time to time.  Let Colonial Funerals, serving all of the great state of Connecticut, take the mystery and the hidden costs out of the equation.  They offer the very same services for much less than other Connecticut funeral homes.  Check for yourself.  Give Colonial Funerals a call at (203) 407-8899.  You deserve peace of mind.

What You Can Do to Save Thousands of Dollars.

You see the advertisements such as “save 15% on your car insurance”…or save hundreds of dollars this weekend on furniture for your home.  This country is obsessed with saving money.  In most businesses the lead-line is save $$$.  If you are someone who likes saving money (and who isn’t) why not save thousands of dollars on the ultimate necessity?

Nearly all funeral homes are afraid to mention price or savings.  They all offer virtually the same services.  Their products are similar.  And you hope that their professionalism and empathy during a difficult time is their paramount concern.  Most funeral homes have little compunction about selling you upgrades that you don’t need in your time of grief.

At Colonial Funeral Home, serving the great state of Connecticut, we are not only unafraid to speak of price, we encourage you to be price conscious.  Every family will go through this process more than once.  Why on earth would you pay more than necessary for funeral services or cremation and almost never do so with any other commodity in life?  See for yourself, contact Colonial Funerals at (203) 407-8899 or take a moment and visit their website at www.colonialfunerals.com.  It just makes common sense.

Cremation is Becoming More Prevalent.

We should all know by now that cremation is less expensive than a traditional funeral.  It conserves the environment as well if you want to leave a lasting gift to the future of mankind.  Cremation also offers a multiple of different choices for a final goodbye.

Just as with many funeral costs the vast majority of funeral homes in Connecticut are reticent to advertise their prices to the public.  Their excuse often times is that it is tasteless and too commercial.  Since final arrangements are a necessity for everyone why would you want to be under great stress when you make that important decision?

Please visit www.colonialfunerals.com and you may be surprised to discover that cremation prices are no secret.  Pricing is listed right on the website.  Now that is a refreshing change of pace!  When you see their pricing you can call elsewhere if you wish and perhaps get the run around or simply pick up the phone and call Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.

Save Money on Funeral Costs.

Many people don’t realize that prices can vary greatly between funeral homes.   In recent years, many family-run funeral homes (and local cemeteries) have been taken-over by big global corporations.  What often happens is that many of these big corporate funeral homes often keep the original owner’s family name on the door so they don’t scare away their old customers.  Unfortunately, these corporations often raise prices by 30% to 50%.

Always check to see if there has been a change in ownership at a funeral home that has had the same name for years.  And even if you find that the funeral home is under the same ownership you still need to check their pricing.

Choosing a reasonably-priced local funeral home instead of one of the many corporate funeral homes can substantially reduce your out-of-pocket funeral expenses.  Believe it or not this may reduce your overall funeral bill by $2,000 – to $4,000 for the same exact items!

This same principle applies to cemeteries.  These funeral corporations have also been buying up many of the older, better established cemeteries across the country.  They know that you are more likely to pay their larger fees just to be buried next to a deceased relative.

Avoid exorbitant funeral costs!  Before you make a final decision, check with Colonial Funeral Home.  They are proud to offer the same services at a lower cost.  Call them at (203) 407-8899 or visit their website to see the truth for yourself at www.colonialfunerals.com.

Fair and Unfair Funeral Fees

Funeral Fees

The Funeral Rule allows funeral providers to charge a basic services fee that customers have to pay. The basic services fee includes services that are common to all funerals, regardless of the specific arrangement. These include funeral planning, securing the necessary permits and copies of death certificates, preparing the notices, sheltering the remains, and coordinating the arrangements with the cemetery, crematory or other third parties. The fee does not include charges for optional services or merchandise.

Charges for other services and merchandise, include costs for optional goods and services such as transporting the remains; embalming and other preparation; use of the funeral home for the viewing, ceremony or memorial service; use of equipment and staff for a graveside service; use of a hearse or limousine; a casket, outer burial container or alternate container; and cremation or interment.

Now we are in a gray area.  What IS a fair and equitable expense and when are the bereaved being taken advantage of?  You might be amazed at the extra expenses that are being added unnecessarily.  That is why you can trust Colonial Funerals, serving all of Connecticut, to provide all of the services that you need at the lowest possible price.  Call them at (203) 407-8899 or visit them on the web at www.colonialfunerals.com.

Local News

Wang wants New Haven chief public defender off his murder case

 

Pre-Planning a Funeral Makes Economic Sense.

Of course no one wants to think about the inevitable, but that is just what the end of life is…inevitable.  Over the years you have been reminded that a pre-planned funeral is not only less expensive, but far less stressful as well.

Is it time for someone in your family to face that prospect with courage?  If that is the case you may call Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut.  Another way to approach this sometimes uncomfortable subject with the least angst would be to visit their website at www.colonialfunerals.com.  On the site you will find an online form that you may fill out without making an appointment.

Once all of this is done you can relax knowing that when the time comes you have done the right and financially responsible thing.  We hope it will be decades before you need us, but give Colonial Funerals a call to pre-arrange at (203) 407-8899.

The High Price of Death and Taxes.

Everyone knows about the two “sure things” in life, but few of us want to discuss the high price of death.  The truth is funeral homes and cemeteries know that in times of grief people are vulnerable.  They will rarely question prices.  As a result, most funeral homes take advantage of our vulnerability.

Here are some other common funeral schemes.

• Charging extra for filing the death certificate or getting it medically certified.

• Charging a fee to handle an outside casket. (Funeral homes are required to accept outside caskets.)

• Charging a commission for forwarding payment to third parties.

• Claiming embalming is required by law when it's not.

• Charging for goods and services that the family did not request.

• Charging for goods and services that the family did request, then not providing them.

Everyone will tell you how they are caring and concerned during your time of need.  The proof is in the bottom line.  Contact the people at Colonial Funerals to find out what REALLY matters when the life of a precious loved one comes to an end. Colonial Funerals serves all of Connecticut.  Call them at (203) 407-8899 or visit them on the web at www.colonialfunerals.com.

What Do You Expect to Pay for a Loved One’s Final Funeral Expenses?

When you think of final expenses at the end of a life well lived you think thousands not hundreds.  We all do.  We know that we are not thinking clearly at a time like that and could easily be taken advantage of.

Colonial Funerals serving all of Connecticut offers an alternative.  If you should choose cremation we offer complete direct cremation for $950 with no advances!  It is a dignified final tribute to a loved one and should be considered carefully when making preparations for your departed.

Please consider cremation.  When you do we can assure you a dignified process at the lowest price in the state of Connecticut.  Contact Colonial Funerals of Connecticut at (203) 407-8899.  And please visit our beautiful new website at www.colonialfunerals.com for more information on a variety of services priced with value, professionalism, and dignity.

Happy New Year to All Of Our Friends and Families in the State of Connecticut.

We at Colonial Funeral Home recognize that in times of grief and stress people often make poor and hasty decisions.  If a family has lost a loved one they may feel that a funeral home owned and operated by someone of their ethnicity is the best answer to their immediate needs.

What may be missing at a time like this is simply common sense.  When you go shopping at a retail establishment you don’t intentionally go where the prices are higher for the same product or service.  Why would you make that decision at such an important time for your family unit?

The truth is Colonial Funerals has the same service (or better) than any funeral home in the state of Connecticut, regardless of race, creed or color of the deceased.  Price IS important at this stressful time so act accordingly and get the best service for the price in the state.

At Colonial Funerals, we hope that 2015 will be a prosperous year for all Connecticut families.  If a loss comes to your home, please contact our caring people at (203) 407-8899 for the most professional and fairly priced funeral or cremation anywhere.