Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory

04/21/2026

The silence after the funeral can be deafening.

That's the "Second Month" of grief, a natural biological transition where the initial adrenaline runs out. 🧠

We break down the science of "Grief Brain" and the profound exhaustion of the "Grief Crash."

Learn actionable strategies for solitary living and self-care in our free guide, "After the Flowers Fade."

Find kindness for yourself.

➡️ Download the free guide.

The “Second Month” of grief—the period after the initial support from the funeral and visitors has dropped off. Profound exhaustion (the “Grief Crash”) and difficulty concentrating (“Grief Brain”) are natural, biological transitions as the body’s stress hormones diminish and the brai...

04/19/2026

Including children in funeral services can be a healthy step in their grieving journey.

Offering age-appropriate participation helps them understand loss and strengthens family bonds during a difficult time.

Learn how to involve them meaningfully. 💖👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Including children in funeral services, with age-appropriate involvement, is beneficial for their emotional well-being, helping them process grief, understand death and loss, and strengthen family bonds.

04/18/2026

Virginia “Ginny” A. Sedbrook, of Dubuque, was called home on April 17, 2026 while at Keystone Place in North Liberty, IA, with her family by her side, surrounding her with love as she began her final journey.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:15 am Saturday, April 25, 2026 at St. Ant...

04/17/2026

A Day in the Life: What Actually Happens on the Day of a Funeral? 🕊️

Many people think a funeral director’s job ends once the plans are made. In reality, the day of the service is when our most critical work begins. We aren't just there to open doors—we are there to ensure you can remain present in your grief while we handle the rest. 🤍

Here is a look at what happens behind the scenes to create a seamless experience for your family:

The Morning Prep: Creating a Sanctuary ✨
Long before the first guest arrives, we are transforming the church or venue.

We coordinate floral placements and set up memorial equipment.

We perform tech checks for tribute videos and music.

we act as the "invisible liaison," briefing clergy, military honors teams, and musicians so everyone is on the same page.

During the Service: The Silent Conductor 🎼
Once the service starts, our goal is to eliminate chaos.

We organize the procession so you don't have to worry about where to stand or when to move.

We manage live-streaming for distant family and friends. 📱

While you are focused on the eulogy, we are quietly resetting the back of the church for dismissal and military honors.

After the Service: The True Meaning of Aftercare 🏠
The conclusion of a service is often the most exhausting moment for a family.

We handle the cleanup entirely so you can head straight to your luncheon with friends and family. 🍽️

We hand-deliver flowers and memorial gifts to your doorstep so you don't have to worry about transporting them. 💐

In the weeks following, we help navigate the "heavy lifting"—from filing paperwork and death certificates to providing local grief resources. 📑

Choosing professional coordination means you aren't an "event planner" on the hardest day of your life. You are a family member, a friend, and a mourner. We carry the logistics so you don’t have to.

Have questions about how we can support your family? We are always here to help. 🤝

04/17/2026

Did you know April is dedicated to Bereaved Spouses Awareness? 🧠

Sometimes the best way to support a friend who has lost a partner isn’t saying the "right" thing—it’s just showing up.

Check in on someone today.

Send a text, drop off a meal, or simply share a favorite memory of their spouse.

Let’s make sure no one walks this road without a hand to hold. 👣🌿

04/16/2026

Our very own Funeral Director Theresa Thielen was officially installed this week as Governor of District 1 for the Iowa Funeral Directors Association at the IFDA Convention in Altoona.

While she was elected to this role last summer, this marked the formal installation of her position. As District Governor, Theresa will serve in a hands-on capacity advocating for our profession—helping protect the integrity of funeral service in Iowa and, most importantly, the families we are honored to serve.

Theresa shares, “This role allows me to be actively involved in supporting our professional license and strengthening funeral service across our state. I’m grateful to do this work alongside such an incredible group of colleagues. It’s an honor.”

Please join us in congratulating Theresa on this well-deserved leadership role!

04/16/2026

Sally K. Smith, 72, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Stonehill Communities, from a long-time illness.

No formal services will be held.

Sally was born February 12, 1954, in Memphis, TN, the daughter of Elmer and Betty (Stevens) Sikes.

Sally was her own person. Sh...

04/16/2026

Honoring our Veterans one farewell at a time.

Did you know the VFW provides invaluable support for a veteran's final honors, including Military Funeral Honors and community bereavement assistance?

It's important to know the difference between VFW support and VA financial benefits.

Always coordinate with your local post early to ensure a dignified tribute for your loved one.

This blog post and podcast explains the funeral benefits provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

04/15/2026

During life's most difficult moments, you deserve to grieve, not coordinate.

Our professional team handles every detail—from logistics to arrangements—so you can focus on what truly matters: honoring your loved one and being present with family.

Let us carry the weight. 💙



https://www.hskfhcares.com/resources/grief-support-and-planning-resources?locationid=1555&aid=918&i=1

04/14/2026

The greatest gift you can give your family isn't an asset—it's clarity. 💖

Don't leave your loved ones guessing during their most difficult time.

Our new, free guide, "The Peace of Mind Portfolio," breaks down the 10 essential documents every adult needs to ensure their wishes are honored and their family is protected.

Turn the "what-ifs" into a clear, loving plan today. Download your copy! 👇

04/13/2026

Rose Ann Hammel, 84, of Dubuque, died Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rose w...