Zimmerman-Auer Funeral Home

12/02/2020

"In the last few weeks of his life, his physical and cognitive decline were palpable. I’d ask him, 'Dad, how are you doing?' He would reply invariably, 'I can’t complain.' "

Paul Ollinger on his father's death – and his life.

Lessons from my father on gratitude, service, and the power of showing up

12/01/2020

Today is , uniting us in a celebration of generosity. 2020 has been rough for most of us; so many have already stepped up to share what we can, and find generosity helps heal fear, uncertainty, and division. Here are some ways you can give – and if you are not able, know that every act of kindness, however small, is a gift. https://www.givingtuesday.org/individuals

11/30/2020

"As a physician, I’ve met countless patients who were ill-prepared for death. ...If Black Friday celebrates American consumers spending in order to live well, we could also adopt it as a day to consider what it means to die well. As the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus put it, 'The art of living well and the art of dying well are one.' "

Black Friday offers a good time for families to pivot from giving thanks to having fraank but necessary end-of-life conversations.

11/26/2020

11/25/2020

Whatever you plan – or don't plan – this Thanksgiving holiday week, our wish is that you and all your loved ones stay safe and well.

11/25/2020

My patients and their families are facing the sudden decline that can occur in people with COVID-19, and many are not prepared.

11/23/2020

"My family wanted that Thanksgiving to be a holiday miracle that transported us from our bruising reality back into the normal world we had taken for granted. We quickly realized that grief does not concern itself with your social calendar and that sometimes it’s better to observe your sorrow."

The need for joy and celebration cannot erase loss, even during the holidays.

11/20/2020

It’s normal to feel disenchanted and flat-out sad about Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve when there’s a chance you won’t be able to spend it with the larger circle of people near and dear to you. While psychologists say those feelings are normal and expected, it’s also essential to find coping strategies.

See how to cope if you can't spend the holidays with family or friends in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. See expert tips for still spreading holiday cheer, grieving, connecting with others, and more during the holidays when you can't be with others.

11/19/2020

November 19 is . Learn more about how you can help a child who is mourning a loss.

Children's Grief Awareness Day seeks to provide an opportunity for all of us to raise awareness of the painful impact that the death of a loved one has in the life of a child.

11/18/2020

The sun begins to rise this morning over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

Honor. Remember. Explore.