The Milwaukee Post

July 26, 2013 • Milwaukee Post • 13 Free seminar on grief Monday Homes, will explore the common effects of grief experienced by many, as well as how and why each person grieves uniquely. Free grief support resources and literature will be available, as well as snacks and refreshments. For planning purposes, registration is appreciated, although not necessary, by calling 262827-0659 or 414-476-0052 or e-mailing petereinl@churchandchapel.us. The program is being offered to the community by Hospice Advantage and Church and Chapel Funeral Homes. CUDAHY – On Monday, adults who have experienced a significant loss in their lives, a month ago or years ago, are invited to find hope and healing by attending a free educational seminar titled "Understanding YOUR Loss." It will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday at the Cudahy Family Library, 3500 Library Drive. Presenters Kathleen McManus, coordinator of bereavement support service for Hospice Advantage, and Pete Reinl, director of grief support services for Church and Chapel Funeral MatureLiving - PAID ADVERTISEMENT - WHO WILL BURY ME? The weekend just got a little better. Thompson Meadows ONE MONTH FREE Mention this Ad HOT DEAL ~ A/C Package BADGER ED LIMITER FF O TIRE & AUTO 1130 E. Oklahoma • 282-2077 Mon.-Fri. • 8-5pm at the corner of Clement and Oklahoma Exhaust Special 9900 $ STARTING AT 233503058 BADGER TIRE & AUTO Expires 8/4/13 -OR- BRAKE PADS ONLY $ 8995 00 Most cars. 5W30 - other blends extra BADGER TIRE & AUTO MP Expires 8/4/13 Includes A/C Refrigerant Oil, A/C Dye to check system for leaks, 2 lbs of Freon Regular price $120.00 pkg Most cars. BADGER TIRE & AUTO BADGER TIRE & AUTO Expires 8/4/13 www.badgerautorepair.com 1995 $ 60 $ Oil Change & Filter MP For Independent Seniors 55 & Better 414.769.9240 3120 E. Norwich Avenue • St. Francis thompsonmeadows@aol.com 233503028 233503030 • Country Like Setting • Gazebo & Garden • Huge Closets with $99.00 • Large Open Kitchen Security Deposit. • Same floor laundry • 1 & 2 Bedroom Starting at $585 • Elevator & Library • Small Pets Welcomed • Professional Management Until this year, Wisconsin law provided no means to assure our funeral, burial, and final wishes were carried out. Left unanswered under Wisconsin law was the question of who had authority to dispose of our remains. Many individuals left this Earth not knowing whether loved ones would follow their wishes. I saw many instances where children would argue over burial versus cremation, what funeral home would be used, and where a decedent would be buried. In March, 2008, our legislature created Chapter 154. Individuals can now leave a written "Authorization for Final Disposition" wherein they may provide the name of the agent who will have authority in relation to final disposition. An alternative agent may be named if the first named agent is unable to serve for any reason. The form also permits individuals to insert directions and instructions in relation to their final disposition. For example, an individual may wish to be buried in particular clothing or have certain music played during their funeral service. Individuals may leave specific instructions as to all aspects of their final disposition. The form also provides for the possibility of instructions relating to religious observances. There appears to be no limitation as to the amount of details one may provide in their directions for final disposition. Chapter 154 also covers the possibility that individuals may die without having entered into an "Authorization for Final Disposition." There is now a statutory "hierarchy" of individuals the law will presume have authority in relation to your final disposition. The order of authority starts with a surviving spouse, then children, then parents, and then down the family line, in a manner similar to intestacy laws if you would die without a will. If there are multiple children who disagree on disposition, the majority will rule. I would assume an "Authorization for Final Disposition" will be used primarily by individuals who have no close relatives and by individuals for whom specific funeral and final disposition directions are extremely important. Second marriage situations also come to mind, in that I have seen many disputes between the children of the first marriage and the surviving spouse of the second marriage as to where the deceased spouse will then be buried. I have also experienced situations where children refused to cremate mom, despite mom's desires to be cremated. Chapter 154 represents a long over-due option for all Wisconsin residents. We now all have the opportunity to clearly express our wishes in relation to our final disposition. The new law should avoid many family disputes and provide at least a certain level of security for those who have strong desires in relation to their funeral or final disposition. The "Authorization for Final Disposition" form will hopefully become a normal adjunct to wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. The Law Office of James J. Winiarski offers a free estate planning consultation. Our approach to estate planning is to explain the options available, the cost of each option, and the advantages and disadvantages of each option. If you would like to set up an appointment for a free simple estate planning conference, please call us at 383-3902. 233503011

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