Ertel Funeral Home & Crematory

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Cortez, CO
Ertel Funeral Home & Crematory

Ertel Funeral Home has been serving the Montezuma and Dolores County area for nearly 100 years.

We are honored to be a part of the rich history of this community and plan to be a part of it for many years to come.

12/27/2025

Including children in funeral and memorial rituals can help them process death and loss in a supportive environment. Inviting them to participate, even in small ways, helps them feel connected and provides a sense of closure.

You might encourage children to draw a picture or write a note to place in a casket or at a memorial service. This simple act can give them a meaningful way to express their feelings and say goodbye. We're here to help you find thoughtful ways to include children and teens that feel right for your family.

12/25/2025

When someone dies, the whole community seems to move a little closer. A neighbor shows up with a mower, cousins catch the first flight they can, and people you haven’t seen in years stop by to lend a hand. Those simple acts of kindness remind us how much care lives right here around us.
How has your family felt supported by neighbors and friends during a loss?

12/24/2025

Christmas Day may ask more of your heart this year because one stocking isn't filled. Today is yours to celebrate in whatever way feels right. As you open gifts, attend services, and gather with those you love, give yourself permission to honor cherished traditions, or start brand new ones.

To all of our families missing loved ones today, know that you're in our hearts and on our minds. We hope you find moments of joy and togetherness, with their memory close. We're here if you need us.

12/21/2025

Have you considered who you'll trust to know your funeral choices?

Your family will face some big decisions when they're planning your celebration of life. Should they choose burial or cremation? What kind of service would you want? Would you prefer your favorite hymn or that song you always sang along to in the car?

They might second-guess every choice if they don't know your preferences. But when you've shared these thoughts with someone you trust, they can guide the family with confidence and know they're honoring exactly what mattered to you.

(And while you're having that conversation, ask those you love what they'd want, too.)

Who in your life will you trust to carry your voice forward?

12/19/2025

Funerals matter because they give you a chance to say goodbye in a way that feels right, while also bringing the closure and understanding you need to carry the loss with you.

They help you shift from loving someone in everyday life to honoring them through stories, legacy, and memories that last forever.

When you’re ready, we’re here to help you find comfort in a service that feels true to your family.

12/16/2025

Families come to us with different needs, and we help you plan a funeral that fits your budget, your beliefs, and your timing because every situation asks for something a little different. You might want a traditional service with familiar rituals, something special like his antique car parked out front, or you might need something simple that can come together quickly. We'll walk you through your choices so you can decide what feels right for your family.

12/15/2025

"Can we personalize the casket?" Yes, and it often brings a sense of comfort to families.

We’ve seen flowers, medals, photos, and favorite keepsakes placed on top, and we’ve seen fishing lures, ballet slippers, jerseys, even handwritten recipes tucked inside. Caskets also come in different colors and materials, with interiors that reflect style and personality. It’s one more way to tell the story of a life well lived, and we’ll help you make it meaningful. 💭 What personal touches have you seen that stayed with you?

12/12/2025

Older children and teens often want to share something special about the person who died. Inviting them to speak during the funeral gives them a chance to do that in a way that feels personal. They might tell a favorite memory, read a poem, or say a few words about what their loved one meant to them. Having a voice in the service helps them feel like a valued part of the farewell.

Young people approach this differently - some want to speak themselves, others prefer to write something for someone else to read, and some choose to honor their loved one simply by being present and listening. We're here to help you find what feels right for each child or teen in your family.

12/08/2025

The loss of a child is an unimaginable heartache that changes everything. If today feels difficult, give yourself space to move through it in the way you need, at the pace you need. Grief belongs to you, and only you can know how it should be carried.

12/01/2025

Your life tells a unique story, and your funeral should capture all the things that made you who you are. Choose music that reflects your spirit, include traditions that matter to you, and create a celebration that feels authentically yours. We'll help you bring your vision to life.

Interested in learning more? Give us a call at 970-565-3468 or stop in.

11/28/2025

Talking with your family about your funeral wishes often brings everyone closer together and helps them understand what you value most. These conversations become treasured memories and give your loved ones confidence they're honoring you exactly the way you hoped.

Reach out to us at 970-565-3468 when you're ready to start planning together. We'll help you turn this into quality time with your family.

11/27/2025

Thanksgiving feels harder when someone who used to be at your table isn’t there anymore. The meal gets cooked and people gather, but the day carries that awareness of an empty seat. Some families talk openly about the person they’re missing, while others keep those memories closer to the heart. Both can happen around the same table.

If this is your first Thanksgiving without someone you love, give yourself permission to make the day what you need it to be. Prepare their favorite dishes, or skip them. Share stories, or take a break from talking. Hold on to traditions, or try something new. Whatever helps you get through today is enough.

We’ve been thinking about the families we’ve served this year, and you’re on our hearts. We’re here if you need us and hope today has moments of warmth, gratitude, and love.

Address

42 N Market Street
Cortez, CO
81321

Telephone

+19705653468

Website

https://www.ertelfuneralhome.com/

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