Ryan Funeral Homes

02/23/2026

There is something powerful about simplicity.

Green burial removes many of the elements people assume are required. No embalming chemicals. No metal caskets. No concrete vaults.

Instead, biodegradable materials are used, allowing the body to return to the earth naturally.

For families who value sustainability or who feel a deep connection to nature, this choice often feels aligned with how their loved one lived.

If you have ever wondered what green burial truly involves, our latest blog offers a thoughtful look at both the practical and emotional sides of this option.

Read more here:
https://www.ryanfuneralservice.com/blog/article/returning-to-the-earth-the-emotional-meaning-behind-green-burials-

02/19/2026

When you picture a burial, what comes to mind?

For many people, it involves heavy caskets, concrete vaults, and formal cemeteries.

But that is not the only option.

Green burial offers a simpler approach. No embalming chemicals. No metal or hardwood caskets. Just a natural return to the earth.

More families are asking about this choice, and the reasons go far beyond sustainability.

In our newest blog, we explore the emotional meaning behind green burials and why they resonate so deeply with some families.

Read the full article here:
https://www.ryanfuneralservice.com/blog/article/returning-to-the-earth-the-emotional-meaning-behind-green-burials-

02/12/2026

Today is National Giving Day, and we love any excuse to talk about community.

At Ryan Funeral Home, our Legacy Center is more than a beautiful gathering space. It’s a place where local nonprofits host events, share their missions, and connect with people who care. We’re proud to partner with organizations doing meaningful work right here in our community, including the Farley Center.

Giving does not have to look one specific way. Sometimes it’s a donation. Sometimes it’s volunteering your time. Sometimes it’s simply showing up and cheering someone on.

However you give, it matters.

What causes are close to your heart this year?

02/04/2026

Welcome to February! Here's a little rhyme for you 💕

February, where roses are red,
Wisconsin hearts are strong,
And this month at Ryan’s,
There’s a little bit of everything going on.

A new blog on green burials and returning to the earth,
Super Bowl fun, Valentine’s love,
And National Wisconsin Day pride from our home turf.

It’s a month full of heart, reflection, and community.

What are you most looking forward to this February?

01/31/2026

Well, we made it. January 31st. The longest short month of the year.

If you started the month with big plans and they didn't quite happen... welcome to the club. We're all just doing our best over here.

February starts tomorrow, and it's a whole new chance to tackle that thing you've been putting off. (No pressure though. We'll still be here in March too.)

How did January treat you? Ready for February, or do you need another week to recover?

01/31/2026

After years of serving families, we can tell you this: the hardest plans are the ones made under pressure. The most peaceful ones? Those are made ahead of time.
January is actually a great moment for this. No urgency. No overwhelm. Just clear thinking and thoughtful choices.
Where to start? Think about:

What kind of service feels right to you
Who you'd want involved
What traditions or personal touches matter most

Small steps now can make a world of difference later.
What's one thing you'd want your family to know about your wishes?

01/30/2026

A lot happens behind the scenes at a funeral home that people never see.

Quiet coordination. Thoughtful details. Careful listening. All of it so families can focus on what matters most: being together and honoring someone they love. We're proud of the work our team does, even when it's invisible.

Have you ever wondered what actually goes into planning a service?

01/29/2026

January around here means fresh calendars, new notebooks, and our team catching their breath after a busy holiday season.

It also means more time to answer questions, walk families through options without rushing, and just be present.

If you've been thinking about planning ahead or just have questions, now's a good time. We're here, and we're listening.

Do you have any questions that you’ve always wondered about funeral planning? Drop them below or give us a call at (608) 249-8257

01/16/2026

We'll be sharing a series of articles about green burials. This post from The Modern Mortician is super insightful and provides more context around what constitutes a green burial.

What questions do you have about green burials?

Green burial depth 🌱

Green burial is often misunderstood because people assume all burials must be “six feet down.” That’s not how natural burial works.

Most green and natural burials are placed about 3.5 to 4 feet deep total, with state regulations typically requiring between 18–24 inches of soil covering the body or biodegradable vessel. The exact requirement varies by state and cemetery rules.

This depth is intentional because:
• The most biologically active soil is closer to the surface
• Oxygen supports natural, aerobic decomposition
• Plant roots, microbes, and fungi do the real work of return
• Deeper burial can slow decomposition by limiting oxygen

Green burial isn’t a shortcut or a modern trend, it reflects how humans were buried for most of history, long before vaults and heavy machinery.

Green burial isn’t about preservation or concealment.
It’s about working with the earth, not against it.

Always check state and cemetery-specific regulations, but know that shallow, thoughtful burial is both legal and ecologically sound.

12/31/2025

As we prepare to welcome a new year, we take a moment to honor the lives and memories that shaped this one. New Year's Eve is a time of reflection, hope, and renewal. It invites us to carry forward the lessons, love, and legacy of those who are no longer with us.​

To every family we have served and to our community, thank you for trusting us in your moments of need. We step into the coming year with compassion and commitment, ready to support you whenever you need us.​

Wishing you a peaceful transition into the new year and a sense of light guiding you forward.

12/25/2025

On Christmas Day, we wish you moments of warmth, connection, and rest. Whether you are celebrating with family, honoring traditions, or creating new ones, we hope your day is filled with small joys that bring warmth to your heart.​

For those remembering someone special, may their presence be felt in the stories you share, the laughter you recall, and the love that continues.​

Merry Christmas from all of us at Ryan Funeral Home. May today offer both grace and gratitude.

12/24/2025

Tonight, as lights glow softly and families gather, we hold close in our hearts those who are missing someone they love. The holidays can bring joy, and they can also bring a tender ache for those who feel the empty space at the table.

If this season carries a mix of emotions for you, please know you are not alone. Our team is thinking of every family who has experienced a loss this year and is navigating the quiet moments that feel different without a loved one.

May peace find you gently this Christmas Eve, and may the memories you hold bring comfort.