Above / Beidelman-Kunsch, located at 516 S. Washington Street in downtown Naperville, is opening its doors to welcome families and friends to honor their loved ones this holiday season.
Mindful that the holiday season can be a difficult time following the death of a loved one, the family and staff at Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Homes again will welcome families to participate in their annual tribute to celebrate life while offering peace and comfort.
Individuals and families are invited to place a personalized dove ornament on the Beidelman-Kunsch Tree of Remembrance to honor the memory of their loved ones.
Known to represent purity and innocence, white doves have been used throughout history in many different cultures as symbols of peace, freedom and love. The history of the dove as a tree ornament is said to date back to the origins of the Christmas tree, representing both spirituality and charity, likely as early as the 16th century in Germany, gaining popularity during the Victorian era in England.
Personalize a dove ornament in remembrance now through Dec. 4
The Tree of Remembrance to be adorned with white doves has been placed in the lobby of Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Home & Crematory from Nov. 25 to Dec. 4 at the downtown location, 516 S. Washington Street.
From 9AM to 5PM Monday through Friday; and from 9AM to 12PM noon on Sat., Dec. 3, this special program is open to the area residents with no charge to participate.
Memorial Ceremony and Reception / Dec. 4
Beidelman-Kunsch will host its annual Memorial Ceremony at 1PM Sun., Dec. 4, for all families that have placed personalized ornaments on the Tree of Remembrance. Ornaments also can be placed on the tree that afternoon just prior to the interfaith service. Genalin Niere-Metcaff, a spiritual director from SamaraCare in Naperville, will conduct the service. Refreshments will be served during a reception following the service.
The annual program began nearly 30 years ago when John W. Kunsch, now retired president of Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Homes, was considering a way to give back to his hometown, explained Shelley Miller, who serves as Administrative Assistant and Funeral Coordinator for Beidelman-Kunsch.
Today, John Kunsch, Jr., and his twin brother Joe, head the company that has been in business for more than 160 years.
“I’ve been part of every remembrance ceremony,” said John Kunsch, Jr. “Our family is grateful for all the families of all faiths that have participated over the years, finding peace and a comforting, uplifting way to honor their loved ones with other families. Many families return year after year and we look forward to seeing them.”
For more information about the Tree of Remembrance, contact Shelley Miller at (630) 355-0264. For more information about Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Homes, visit www.beidelmankunschfh.com.
