The Gift of Pre-Planning

Losing someone is never easy—but making decisions for a loved one’s funeral at their time of passing can add layers of stress and uncertainty. At Bakken-Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services, we believe that pre-planning is a gift—a way to support your family, express your wishes, and reduce anxiety when it’s needed most.

Pre-planning a funeral or cremation service means writing down your preferences or completing arrangements in advance—rather than having your family make choices while grieving. Here’s why more people in Western Wisconsin are choosing this path:

1. It Eases the Emotional Burden on Your Family

When a loved one passes, families often feel lost and unsure about what the person would have wanted. Pre-planning provides guidance and relieves your family from making tough decisions during one of life’s most vulnerable moments. Instead, they can focus on honoring and remembering you, rather than worrying about logistics or second-guessing choices.

2. Your Wishes Will Be Known and Respected

Maybe you care about a certain song, spiritual practice, or want a special photograph included. By pre-planning, you can ensure your values and wishes are clearly stated. This clarity can be deeply comforting for your family and friends, too.

3. Financial Peace of Mind

Pre-planning can also address financial matters—allowing you to make choices that fit your needs and budget in advance. This takes away the uncertainty for your loved ones and lowers the chance for unexpected costs or stress around money at a difficult time.

“Will my family have to follow my plans exactly?”
Usually, yes—but there is still space for your loved ones to include their own special tributes, stories, or rituals if they wish.

“Is pre-planning just filling out paperwork?”
It’s much more than that. Our team will walk you through options, answer any questions, and help you create a plan that feels right for you and your family.

“What if I change my mind later?”
Your plan can always be updated, changed, or added to over time as your wishes or circumstances shift.

Even with all arrangements set, grief doesn’t follow a script. Families can feel prepared some days and overwhelmed the next. There is no right way or right time to move forward—pre-planning simply helps give loved ones gentle guidance so they don’t have to make every choice alone.

Pre-planning is just one of many ways we care for families before, during, and after loss. Our staff provides personal consultations, helpful resources, and ongoing grief support services—because we know healing takes time and support comes in many forms.

If you’d like to start a conversation or just see what’s involved, there’s never any pressure or obligation. Reach out to Bakken-Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services, request a free pre-planning guide, or join an upcoming seminar or support group.

Taking the first step is a profound act of love—for yourself and for those you cherish.