Blog | Harper Community Funeral Home

Discover the beauty of New Haven’s parks with Harper’s Community Funeral Home.

Discover the beauty of New Haven’s parks with Harper’s Community Funeral Home. From the picturesque Canal Landing to the vibrant Community Center Park, each space offers its own unique charm and amenities.

Canal Landing: This charming pocket park adds aesthetic appeal to the area, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Community Center Park: Behind the New Haven Community Center lies a dynamic space boasting a multi-functional outdoor plaza, an inclusive playground, a splash pad, and more. Completed in June 2022, this park offers something for everyone, including pickleball courts, a basketball court, and scenic trails.

Havenhurst Park: With its pavilion and array of activities, Havenhurst Park is a popular choice for family reunions, anniversaries, and birthday parties. Make sure to reserve this spot during the regular season!

Heatherwood Park: Take a break and enjoy a relaxing lunch at Heatherwood Park. This park also played host to the Great Tree Canopy Comeback volunteer planting effort in November 2012.

Jury Park: Extensively renovated, Jury Park now features resurfaced tennis courts, an updated pavilion, and a brand-new pool facility, making it a favorite destination for recreation.

Klotz Park: Nestled in the heart of the Southwick Village neighborhood, Klotz Park provides a serene escape for residents and visitors alike.

Marylands Farm Park: Mark your calendars for the open house, to explore the beauty of Marylands Farm Park.

Meadowbrook Park: Located in the Meadowbrook housing addition, Meadowbrook Park offers a variety of activities, including a newly added caterpillar climber. Don’t miss out on the Summer Craft and Activity Shed, serving lunch to school-age children and providing free or low-cost crafts and organized play.

Moser Park: Once known as Brudi Pasture, Moser Park boasts a tranquil setting with a pavilion, pond, trails, and more, making it perfect for outdoor recreation.

Schnelker Park: Find tranquility in downtown New Haven at Schnelker Park, where large trees create a shaded oasis for relaxation and play.

Werling Park: Located on Werling Road, Werling Park features a seven-acre grassy field with a scenic half-mile walking loop, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities New Haven has to offer at these stunning parks.

About Harper’s Community Funeral Home in Allen County, Indiana.

We have years of experience caring for families, from all walks of life. Each family comes to us because they know we are leaders in our profession, dedicated to excellence in service, and have the highest integrity.

Navigating the Path of Grief: Understanding the Journey

At Harper’s Community Funeral Home in New Haven, Indiana, we understand that the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal experience. The journey through grief is intricate and multifaceted, encompassing a spectrum of emotions and stages as individuals strive to come to terms with their loss and find healing. While each person’s grieving process is unique, there are common stages and feelings that many encounter along the way.

Understanding the Stages of Grief

Grief is often described as occurring in stages, though it’s essential to acknowledge that these stages are not linear and may not unfold in a fixed order. Individuals may move in and out of different stages multiple times as they navigate their grief journey. The five commonly observed stages of grief are:

Denial: In the initial aftermath of loss, individuals may experience a sense of detachment or numbness. Denial serves as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to function while under extreme stress.
Anger: As the numbness of denial begins to fade, feelings of anger may emerge. Anger can be directed towards various targets, including medical professionals, family members, the deceased, or even a higher power. It’s a natural part of the healing process, often stemming from the profound pain of loss.
Bargaining: Before and after a loss, individuals may engage in “if only” or “what if” thoughts, wishing that circumstances could have been different. Guilt often accompanies bargaining as individuals second-guess their actions and decisions.
Depression: Feelings of deep sadness and emptiness may settle in as the reality of the loss sinks in. Depression is a normal response to significant loss and is a crucial step toward healing.
Acceptance: Eventually, with time and reflection, many individuals come to accept their loss as a part of their story and history. Acceptance does not mean forgetting or moving on but rather finding peace and learning to live with the loss constructively.

Navigating the Duration of Grief

The duration of grief varies from person to person, and there is no right or wrong timeline for healing. While some individuals may find relief from their grief within a year, others may take longer to work through their emotions and find a sense of peace. Factors such as the nature of the relationship with the deceased and the level of support received can influence the grieving process.

Understanding Complicated Grief

In some cases, grief may become prolonged or disrupted, leading to what is known as complicated grief. This may occur if individuals have experienced other recent or unresolved losses, or if there are underlying issues contributing to their grief. Seeking professional counseling can be beneficial for those experiencing complicated grief, providing support and guidance through the healing process.

In conclusion, the grieving process is a deeply personal journey that unfolds differently for each individual. By understanding the common stages and feelings associated with grief, we can navigate this journey with greater awareness and compassion, both for ourselves and for others who may be grieving. Remember, healing takes time, and it’s important to be patient and kind to ourselves as we work through our grief. At Harper’s Community Funeral Home, we are here to support you every step of the way.

We invite you to discover who has made Harper Community Funeral Home the ultimate provider of creating healing experiences in the community.

The Vital Importance of Pre-Planning Funeral and Cremation Services

In the whirlwind of life, one topic that often gets pushed to the backburner is the inevitable: our own passing. However, pre-planning funeral and cremation services is a crucial step that can offer peace of mind, financial benefits, and comfort to your loved ones during a difficult time. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of pre-planning, with a focus on Medicaid spend down, finding a suitable funeral home near you, and locating nearby cremation services.

Harper's Community Funeral Home, New Haven IN — Serving Allen County, Indiana

Why Preplan with Harper’s Community Funeral Home?

Before delving into the details of pre-planning, let’s understand why it’s essential. Death is an emotional and challenging experience for your family. In such times, having a well-thought-out plan in place can alleviate some of their stress and help ensure your final wishes are respected.

Medicaid Spend Down:
One significant aspect of pre-planning your funeral or cremation is the impact it can have on Medicaid eligibility. Many individuals rely on Medicaid for their healthcare expenses in later life. Medicaid has certain asset and income limits, and exceeding these limits may disqualify you from receiving benefits. However, Medicaid considers certain assets exempt from their calculations, and pre-paying for your funeral or cremation is one way to protect your assets.
By setting aside funds for your final expenses, you can effectively “spend down” your assets, making you eligible for Medicaid when the time comes. This not only ensures you receive the necessary healthcare support but also guarantees that your funeral expenses are covered without burdening your loved ones.
Finding a Funeral Home Near You:
One of the key components of pre-planning is selecting a reputable funeral home. When considering this crucial step, be sure to conduct a search for “funeral home near me” to identify local options. Choosing a nearby funeral home has numerous advantages, including easier accessibility for your family, quicker response times, and potential cost savings.
Local funeral homes often have a better understanding of local regulations, customs, and traditions, ensuring your arrangements align with your preferences and local practices. Additionally, when you pre-plan with a local funeral home, you establish a personal connection, making it easier for your family to receive guidance and support during the grieving process.
Locating Nearby Cremation Services:
For those considering cremation, the process is similar. Conduct a search for “cremations near me” to identify local providers. Pre-planning cremation services not only guarantees that your wishes are met but also simplifies the process for your loved ones.
Cremation offers various options, from traditional cremation with a memorial service to direct cremation without a ceremony. By pre-planning, you can specify your preferences and budget, ensuring your family doesn’t face the burden of making difficult decisions during their grieving period.

The Benefits of Pre-Planning Funeral and Cremation Services at Harper’s Community Funeral Home

Financial Security:
Pre-planning your funeral or cremation ensures that the funds are set aside to cover the expenses. This financial preparation helps protect your family from unexpected financial burdens during an already difficult time. It also provides you with the opportunity to lock in today’s prices, shielding your loved ones from potential future price increases.
Personalization:
Pre-planning allows you to customize your funeral or cremation arrangements according to your wishes. Whether you want a traditional burial, a unique memorial service, or a specific type of urn for your ashes, pre-planning ensures your desires are respected.
Reduced Emotional Stress:
Losing a loved one is emotionally challenging, and having pre-planned arrangements in place significantly reduces the stress on your family. They can focus on grieving and healing rather than making complicated decisions during their time of grief.
Medicaid Spend Down Protection:
For those concerned about Medicaid eligibility, pre-planning offers a valuable strategy to protect your assets and ensure you receive the necessary healthcare support when needed.
Peace of Mind:
Finally, pre-planning provides you with peace of mind, knowing that your end-of-life wishes are documented and will be executed as you desire.

Steps to Pre-Planning Your Funeral or Cremation:

Research: Start by searching for a “funeral home near me” or “cremations near me” to identify local providers. Visit their websites, read reviews, and gather information to make an informed decision.
Consultation: Contact your chosen funeral home or cremation service for a consultation. Discuss your preferences, budget, and any specific requests you have for your final arrangements.
Documentation: Work with the provider to document your pre-planned arrangements. Ensure all details are clearly stated and that you understand the terms and conditions.
Funding: Determine how you will fund your pre-planned funeral or cremation. Options include setting up a trust, purchasing a funeral insurance policy, or utilizing a Medicaid-compliant pre-need contract.
Inform Your Family: Once your arrangements are in place, inform your family about your pre-planning decisions and provide them with the necessary documentation. This will ensure they know your wishes and can easily access the information when needed.

In conclusion, pre-planning your funeral or cremation is a responsible and considerate choice that benefits both you and your loved ones. It provides financial security, allows for personalization, reduces emotional stress, and can help protect your Medicaid eligibility. Start by searching for a “funeral home near me” or “cremations near me” to find local providers who can guide you through the pre-planning process. By taking this proactive step, you can ensure that your final wishes are honored, and your family is supported during a challenging time.

Harper’s Community Funeral Home Presents: Flanagan’s Wake – A Celebration of Life with a Twist!

Here at Harper’s Community Funeral Home in New Haven, Indiana, we’re thrilled to announce an extraordinary event that will transport you to the charming fictional village of Grapplin, nestled in County Sligo, Ireland, this St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

🎭 Flanagan’s Wake: A Unique Immersive Experience

Get ready for an immersive journey into the heart of an Irish wake, filled with tears, laughter, singing, and of course, plenty of whiskey. Flanagan’s Wake is a beloved show, and we’re proud to bring it to the Fort Wayne area for an unforgettable run of performances.

🗓️ Performance Dates and Details

Join us on the following dates:

Friday, March 8th
Saturday, March 9th
Sunday, March 10th
Thursday, March 15th
Friday, March 16th
St. Patrick’s Day Sunday, March 17th

Proceeds from ticket sales will go to support the Shepherd’s House in Fort Wayne. This incredible organization provides long-term residential and transitional housing for individuals struggling with alcohol and chemical addiction, offering them a path to recovery and a chance at a brighter future.

🏠 A Unique Setting

Flanagan’s Wake takes place right here in our funeral home setting, creating an authentic atmosphere for this unforgettable experience. Directed by the talented David Rousculp, a local award-winning playwright, the show promises to be a night to remember.

🎭 Meet the Cast

Our talented cast includes a lineup of seasoned actors and improvisation experts who will bring the village of Grapplin to life before your eyes. From Flanagan’s mother and grieving fiancée to the local priest and eccentric characters, each performance is sure to be a unique and memorable experience.

🍻 Pre-Show Drinks

Join us from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm each night for drinks at our cash bar before the show begins. It’s the perfect way to get into the spirit of the evening and mingle with fellow audience members.

🎟️ Get Your Tickets

Tickets are $20 presale and $25 at the door. With a limited capacity of 125 people per show, we recommend purchasing your tickets early to secure your spot. Please note that the show is recommended for ages 21 and older due to suggestive language and the availability of a cash bar.

✨ A Celebration of Irish Heritage

For director David Rousculp, Flanagan’s Wake is more than just a show—it’s a celebration of his Irish heritage and a chance to bring people together in a spirit of joy and camaraderie. And with all proceeds supporting the Shepherd’s House, it’s a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community while having a great time.

👏 Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind event! Whether you’re looking for a fun night out or a unique way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Flanagan’s Wake promises to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Thank you for supporting Harper’s Community Funeral Home and the Shepherd’s House. We can’t wait to see you there!

Note: David Rousculp has a rich history of stage acting and directing, including acclaimed productions such as “My Dead Clown” and “The Sexton.” He is excited to bring his talents to Flanagan’s Wake and hopes to see you in the audience!

Coping with Grief: Support and Resources for Families

Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of life’s most challenging experiences. Grief can be overwhelming, confusing, and often isolating. At Harper’s Community Funeral Home, we understand the profound impact of loss and are committed to providing not only funeral services but also support and resources to help families navigate the grieving process. In this blog, we will discuss various ways families can cope with grief, including grief support groups, counseling services, and practical advice for dealing with the emotions that accompany loss.

Understanding the Grieving Process

Before we delve into coping strategies, it’s important to recognize that grief is a unique and individual experience. It doesn’t follow a specific timeline, and everyone grieves differently. Some may experience intense sadness, while others may feel anger or confusion. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and it’s crucial to allow yourself the time and space to process your emotions.

Seeking Grief Support Groups

Grief support groups can be an invaluable resource for those dealing with loss. These groups offer a safe and understanding environment where individuals can share their feelings, stories, and experiences with others who are also grieving. The sense of community and shared understanding can be incredibly comforting during such a challenging time.

Many local organizations and community centers offer grief support groups, and they can often be found online as well. At Harper’s Community Funeral Home, we can also connect you with reputable grief support groups in your area.

Counseling Services

Professional counseling can provide individuals and families with the tools to navigate grief more effectively. Grief counselors specialize in helping people process their emotions, develop coping strategies, and find ways to move forward. They offer a confidential and non-judgmental space to explore your grief and provide guidance tailored to your unique needs.

If you or a family member are struggling to cope with grief, seeking the assistance of a grief counselor can be a significant step towards healing. Our funeral home can help you find reputable counselors in your area to support you during this difficult time.

Practical Tips for Coping with Grief

While support groups and counseling are essential, there are also practical steps you can take to help cope with grief:

Self-Care: Remember to take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Ensure you are eating well, getting enough rest, and engaging in activities that bring you comfort and joy.
Lean on Your Support Network: Reach out to friends and family for support. Sharing your feelings and memories can be therapeutic and comforting.
Create a Memorial: Honoring your loved one’s memory can be healing. Consider creating a memorial space or participating in memorial events.
Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and emotions can be a helpful way to process grief and gain insight into your feelings.
Seek Professional Help When Needed: If your grief becomes overwhelming or starts affecting your daily life, do not hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Conclusion

Coping with grief is a journey that requires time, patience, and support. At Harper’s Community Funeral Home, we are here to offer not only funeral services but also compassionate guidance and resources to help you and your family during this challenging time. Remember that it’s okay to seek help and lean on others for support. Grief is a process, and with the right resources and support, healing is possible.