FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At Walter’s, we understand that planning a service can feel overwhelming. To help, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions families ask us. If you have questions that we haven't answered, feel free to reach out to us, we're here to help.

  • Every funeral is different.

    Religious or cultural traditions typically influence funeral services and vary by personal preference. They can be public or private, simple or intricate, open or closed casketed, burials or cremations, and can be influenced by religion or not.

    They provide an opportunity for the loved ones of a person who has passed to gather and celebrate their life. They offer a safe space and a support system for the bereaved while honoring the life of a loved one. Regardless of the many differences in funeral services, they all offer a chance to say goodbye.

  • A funeral arrangement is an appointment where you meet with a funeral counselor or a funeral director.

    They will answer any questions you may have, discuss your preferences, and guide you through the available options. Whether you're interested in traditional burial services, cremations, or pre-planning, they’re there to help you make informed decisions that reflect your wishes and those of your loved one.

  • We ask that you bring the following information to your appointment:

    Your loved one’s personal information, including:

    Legal full name*

    Home address

    Social Security number*

    Date and state of birth*

    Father’s name and place of birth* (state/county)

    Mother’s full maiden name and place of birth* (state/county)

    Photo ID

    A recent color picture of your loved one

    Names/relationships of survivors

    Photo ID (Next of Kin)

    Physician’s information (please include phone number)

    Cemetery information (please include address & phone number)

    Clergy/place of worship information (please include address & phone number)

    Any pre-existing arrangements/insurance policy information

    Military discharge papers (DD-214)

    *Please note that the state of California requires these items to complete the Death Certificate

  • No. You can have a funeral service:

    - At a cemetery

    - In a park

    - At the beach

    - In your home

    - At a funeral home

    - In a church

    A funeral can be held wherever you choose.

  • The national median cost for a traditional funeral in 2021, which includes a viewing, is approximately $7,848 (according to the National Funeral Directors Association).

  • A pre-planned arrangement can be made by an individual for a family member or for themselves and ensures that future arrangements are made exactly the way they want them. When pre-planning, you decide what kind of burial you want, the location of your burial plot, what kind of cemetery committal service you would like, and all of the funeral arrangement details, including the casket and etc., without prepayment or funding.

  • A pre-funded arrangement is made the same way a pre-planned arrangement is, except the plan is paid for prior to the planner's passing. Pre-funding services lets you choose how you want to be remembered without worrying about anyone else paying the bill.

  • Yes.

    A funeral service can be held before or after cremation. You can choose to have a viewing beforehand or have an urn present after the cremation. Some people choose to have a memorial a few months after cremation.