Salem Oregon Funeral Home - V.T. Golden News

How to Manage a Facebook Page for a Deceased Person

2012-02-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

With Facebook becoming popular for all ages, what happens when someone passes away? How does the family manage their page? This article provides information and steps that can be taken with two main options: Memorializing a deceased person's page, or deleting the page and account from Facebook.

Memorializing the account:

It is Facebook's policy to memorialize all deceased users' accounts on the site. When an account is memorialized, only confirmed friends can see the profile (timeline) or locate it in Search. The profile (timeline) will also no longer appear in the Suggestions section of the Home page. Friends and family can leave posts in remembrance.

In order to protect the privacy of the deceased user, we cannot provide login information for the account to anyone. However, once an account has been memorialized, it is completely secure and cannot be accessed or altered by anyone.

If you need to report to facebook that a person's page needs to be memorialized, there's an online form that can be filled in to submit to Facebook directly. This is what the form looks like and you will need the information ready before submitting it.

Full Name: on the account
Account email addresses: which may have been used to create the account
Web address (URL) of the profile you would like to report: Please copy and paste the web address (URL) of his/her profile.
Relationship to the person:
Requested action:
Proof of death: an obituary or news article

Here's the link for the online form. You may need to be logged into Facebook to view it.
Memorialize a Page - Online Form

Facebook will also process certain special requests for verified immediate family members, including requests to remove a loved one's account. This will completely remove the profile (timeline) and all associated content from Facebook, so no one can view it.

For all special requests, we require verification that you are an immediate family member or executor. Requests will not be processed if we are unable to verify your relationship to the deceased.

Examples of documentation that we will accept include:

The deceased's birth certificate
The deceased's death certificate
Proof of authority under local law that you are the lawful representative of the deceased or his/her estate.

If you are an immediate family member and would like to request that we remove your loved one's account from the site, use this link for a Deceased User's Special Request. You may also use this form if you have a special request regarding the deceased user's account.

This information was reproduced from the Help section of the Facebook web site as a courtesy to provide accurate steps and help for you and your family during and after your loss of a loved one.

V.T Golden Funeral Service and Crematory
503-364-2257
Salem, Or

submitted by David Brown
webmaster
2-21-2012

Sharing Our Grief - New Blog and Facebook page

2012-01-30T08:24:00.000-08:00

A new blog and Facebook page dedicated to sharing our grief has been launched by Virgil T. Golden funeral services. This is a free service for customers as well as their family members and friends, or anyone else who feels a need to share their grief with others who are also grieving the loss of a loved one.
A blog has been set up as a basic introduction and with an online form for anyone to send in their shared grieving experience. It will be reviewed and then posted on a related blog and the Virgil T. Golden web site. Visit the Sharing Our Grief blog.

A Facebook page has also been set up for those who want to use this format, and share with others who are also fans of the page. www.Facebook.com/SharingOurGrief

Many times we are forced to experience our grief in silence, or do not have the opportunity to share our grief as often as we need to. The purpose of the blog and Facebook is to provide a forum to share your grief, and also provide topics and comments about grief in general.

Since 1949, Virgil T Golden funeral service has served the Salem community and continues to be at the forefront of the funeral service industry. With the recent remodeling of our building, Goldens now offers full cremation service, being one of the few funeral homes in the Willamette Valley with the newest, state-of-the-art crematorium. Oakleaf Crematory, located in the same building was licensed and opened in December 1999.

Guidelines After an Immediate Loss

2011-12-14T10:55:00.000-08:00

GUIDELINES THAT MAY BE HELPFUL

Listed below are some guidelines that you may find helpful. Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service will contact some of these organizations for you. If, in reviewing this information you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.

Notify your attorney for legal advice and for handling of the will and/or estate.

Notify your insurance company. They will require the following:

Certified copy of the death certificate.
Insurance policies and numbers (get receipt for policy).
Social Security number.

Contact the Social Security Office for benefits, to change records and to stop automatic deposit of Social Security checks. The telephone number is:

1-800-772-1213

The Salem office is located at 530 Center Street NE, Suite 530, Salem, Oregon.

The mailing address is Social Security, Suite 530, 530 Center St. NE, Salem,

Oregon, 97301.

If you are the spouse of a Veteran, contact the county Assessor’s office in the county in which you reside. There may be a reduction in taxes. They will need the following information.

Certified copy of the death certificate.
A copy of the marriage license.
A copy of Honorable Discharge.

In Marion County, contact the Marion County Assessor’s Office at

503-588-5144

In Polk County, contact the Polk County Assessor’s Office at

503-623-8391

5. Contact the deceased’s employer or union to ascertain if there are any benefits or

pensions to which you are entitled.

6. Contact bank and savings and loan establishments to inform them of the death and of any change in records. They will also require a copy of the death certificate in some cases. They may make a photocopy of a certified copy of the death certificate in their office, but they will not accept a photocopy that you bring in.

Contact any organization to which the deceased belonged. There could be insurance payable upon death of a member.

Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles to change ownership records. They will require proof of death.

If the deceased was ever employed by the railroad, contact the Railroad Retirement at 877-772-5772. Or you may contact them by mail at: 1220 S.W. 3^rd St., Suite #377, Portland, Oregon 97204.

Contact the Veterans Administration for additional benefits other than burial plot in a National Cemetery and marker allowances. These two benefits have already been filed on your behalf by Golden’s.

Copies of the death certificate may be needed for stocks and other assets. You should contact your broker. The Internal Revenue Service will require proof of death for income tax records. If you find that you need additional certified copies of the death certificate, we can assist you in ordering them.

Should you need further acknowledgement cards for the special help people gave you, simply call and we will be glad to furnish more for you.

It will take time to contact these people and they do not all have to be contacted immediately. Again, if you have any questions, or if we may be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to be of service.

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service

605 Commercial St. SE, Salem, Oregon 97301

503-364-2257

v.t.golden@hotmail.com

Eagle Point National Cemetery

2011-12-14T10:16:00.000-08:00

Eagle Point is one a of three U.S.national cemeteries in Oregon.

"United States National Cemetery" is a designation for 146 nationally important cemeteries in the United States. A National Cemetery is generally a military cemetery containing the graves of U.S. military personnel, veterans and their spouses but not exclusively so. There are also state veteran cemeteries. The best known National Cemetery is Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia, outside of Washington, D.C..(Wikipedia)

The photo above was taken yesterday 12-13-2011 on a clear beautiful day in Oregon.

We support veterans and families for funeral and cremation services.

Wreaths Across America

2011-09-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

Sponsor a Veterans Wreath Before Nov. 15th

We are the exclusive Certified Veterans and Family Memorial Care Provider for Marion County. It is a great honor for us to be able to provide final arrangement services for the men and women who have proudly served this great country. Those who have risked their lives to protect our freedoms deserve dignified, affordable funeral and cremation arrangements, and services that pay tribute to their bravery and devotion.

From now thru mid-November we are an official Veterans & Family Memorial Care-Wreaths Across America sponsorship outlet (learn more about this program) . Honor our veterans by sponsoring a wreath to place on your hero’s burial space on Wreaths Across America Day, Saturday, December 10th in conjunction with the parade and ceremony at Arlington national Cemetery.

We are also an official drop off site for the non-profit, Cell Phones for Soldiers. We encourage you to donate your old cell phone to be recycled and turned into calling cards to provide our troops with free talk time so they can stay connected with their family & friends while they are away serving our great nation.

Please call us with any questions you may have, or just stop by to order a wreath or drop off your old cell phones. We appreciate your help.

Thank you,
from all of us,
Virgil T Golden Funeral Services
Salem Oregon
503-364-2257

Free Online Obituaries

2011-08-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

"For a Life Remebered, Celebrated, and Cherished"

We are now offering free online obituaries as an added value to our other services including cremation packages and funeral services.

Our free Online Obituaries allow you to publish an affordable legacy for your loved one that can be viewed by friends and family on the internet from all over the world. It will also help you to save costs in advertising when you can publish the web address in the ad.

You are welcome to create a free obituary with guestbook on this web site. Both are a free service provided by Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service, a Salem Oregon funeral home.

Visit our website www.YourLovedOnes.net to view recent and existing obituaries, or to get started with your own.

Salem Oregon Cremation Packages

2011-08-02T05:15:00.000-07:00

Salem, Oregon
Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service now offers cremation packages to meet customers needs and preferences.

A simple direct cremation includes the following: Transfer of deceased from place of death (20 mile radius of Salem) Director and Staff , Alternative Fiberboard Cremation Container, and
Cremation Process in our own Crematory. Also, cremains are returned in a urn selected by the family within five business days of receiving proper authorizations. View Urns - $ 660.00

Direct cremation with visitation: same as above with facilities for Visitation and Visitation Table.
$798.00
___________________
Celebration of Life

Celebration of life for those choosing cremation... perhaps you have chosen cremation and have an idea of what you would like for a celebration fro family and friends, or perhaps you need some assistance. To personalize your celebration, there are different options, but if you do not see what you would would like, please ask, as Virgil "Tommy" Golden often remarked, "The impossible only takes a moment longer".

Celebration of Life - Acorn Package

Celebration service in our facility, a memoir with a preprinted scene, a verse or poem on the inside, a standard memorial book, two inspirational stones. Please add direct cremation price to this package price. Price: $595.00

Celebration of Life - Oak Package
Celebration service in our facilty, Memorial DVD composed of up to 20 photos with standard music, a memoir with black and white photograph and a verse or poem on the inside, custom memorial book, two inspirational stones and one sterling silver thumbie or keepsake pendant.
Please add direct cremation price to package price. $ 920.00

Service Set:
Available in four different scenes, this set includes Memorial Folders, Memorial Book, Matching thank you cards, Matching Urn Box with plastic urn and cremation certificate.

Gathering of Friends

Our reception facility is available to all families that we serve. This includes use of coffee pots, and punch bowl. Price: $190.00

(Ask us for catering menu for food and beverage options)
Sample Menu:
35-50 Guests $290.00
Gourmet Coffee, Tea, Lemonade, Ice Water, Mini Sandwich Platter & Fresh Baked Cookies.

If your gathering is self-catered there is a $199.00 fee for linens and cleaning.

Pre-Planning for Funeral Needs

2011-03-25T08:26:00.000-07:00

By pre-planning your funeral needs, you relieve your family of having to make important financial decisions during a period of great stress and grief. The following preplanning links will help you get started, explore options and plan ahead.

Cremation Options
For the convenience of the families we serve, we have designed "Cremation Options." We trust one of these "Cremation Options" will accommodate your wishes. Or, we are able to personalize any of our services to meet your needs. We are dedicated to be of service to you at this time of need.
- View Cremation Packages , View Cremation Urns

Funeral Packages
For the convenience of the families we serve, we have designed "Funeral Packages" around the most requested types of funeral services. We trust one of these "Funeral Packages" will accommodate your wishes. We are dedicated to providing goods and services to meet your wishes. View Funeral Packages >

Other Services and Resources

Certified Provider - Veterans and Family Memorial Care

Free Online Obituaries and Memorial Web Pages

We Support - Cell Phones for Soldiers Program

Grief Support Information

Need help now? - 24 /7 Help Line
503-364-2257

V.T. Golden Funeral Services and Oakleaf Crematory, Salem, Oregon 97301

What Does a Funeral Service Include?

2011-01-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

A choice of services:

Fraternal • Church • Home

Memorial • Cremation • Funeral Chapel • Graveside

The services and facilities listed below are the most frequently required and are made available to every family served by

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service and Oakleaf Crematory, Salem, Oregon

Facilities
-Use of our completely equipped establishment in Salem-centrally located for your convenience.

Complete selection of all funeral merchandise, including caskets, vaults, and related items. All prices are plainly marked.

Funeral equipment to meet the needs of all creeds and religions.

On site crematory, located within our building.

Private off-street parking.

Private rooms for visitation.

Separate entrance to private room for family at service time from private family parking lot. Some families may choose to sit in our chapel and be with their friends.

A fine organ or Clavinova piano for appropriate music is located in our chapel.

Soft music is piped throughout the building.

All furnishings and interior decorations at our establishment are carefully chosen and maintained with care for the comfort of family and friends.

Grace Reception Area for gatherings of 20-85 people.

Staff

Directional and personal services of a complete and competent staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. (An average of over 90 man-hours of service go into the preparation of each adult funeral).

Staff members represent many religious, fraternal, and veteran groups so that expert attention and adherence is given to rituals and ceremonies.

A carefully chosen group of men and women, most of who have been with the firm many years, conform to the high standards prescribed by three generations of management.

Detailed Services

Notification of proper civil and legal authorities.

Procurement of statistical information to complete legal requirements of death certificate.

Death certificate taken to doctor or Medical Examiner (coroner) for completion and signature.

Certified death certificates ordered for insurance and legal purposes.

Record death certificate at Health Department and secure burial or transit permit.

FAX and long-distance phone messages sent for the convenience of the family.

Obituary notices prepared and delivered to local newspapers.

Detailed arrangements made with clergymen of any faith for funeral services.

Furnish clergyman with statistical information and family history.

Clubs, lodges, and church groups notified.

Pallbearers supplied by the staff for chapel services or selected individuals notified for the family.

Arrangements made with a soloist and accompanist to sing family’s choice of songs, or suggestions made for appropriate selections.

Supply grave vaults when the cemetery does not provide these items.

Arrange for opening of previously purchased cemetery or mausoleum properties.

All floral offerings carefully handled and properly arranged to make a beautiful memory picture at the funeral service.

Permanent list made of all floral offerings.

Memorial record book given to family for a keepsake.

Registration cards of visiting friends are given to family after funeral.

Door sprays and “closed” signs prepared and delivered – used principally for business establishments.

Explanation of possible Social Security benefits and assistance in making claims.

Time payments for funerals are available to qualified persons.

Safe care of valuable property, jewelry, and keepsakes left in our care.

Complete records of all details regarding every funeral are kept in permanent files for reference at any time.

Transportation

Complete fleet of automobiles maintained – funeral coaches, and flower cars.

Removal of decedent from place of death to the mortuary in our service vehicle.

If desired, a sedan and driver will bring family to the mortuary to make funeral arrangements.

Transportation for the clergyman to place of final disposition and back to the chapel.

Delivery of flowers in a special flower car to place of disposition.

Special Clerical Services

Notification to Social Security and assistance in obtaining benefits.

Assistance in having Red Cross secure emergency leaves for family members on active duty with the Armed Forces.

Assistance in filing for veteran’s benefits.

Arrange for military detail and service, if desired.

Able to arrange for burial in national cemetery.

Procuring American flag for those with honorable discharge from military service.

Out of City Deaths

Duplication of expenses, anxiety, and needless trips are avoided by calling us immediately. Our many memberships and affiliations with other state, national, and international associations means we can arrange for services or burial anywhere in the free world.

Transportation routing arranged with airlines for deceased persons and those escorting.

Tickets and reservations ordered and picked up for the family.

Careful packing in an air shipping container and transporting casket to depot or airport. Receiving funeral director notified of arrival time and special family requests.

Planning Ahead

Complete counseling advice on funeral services arranged prior to need.

Information available for pre-arranged funerals without payment of any kind, or arrangements for prepayment in the form of a funeral trust account, or information and advice on funeral insurance.

Earth Friendly Cremation Urns

2010-12-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

If you are visiting this page and have lost a loved one, and are considering a cremation, we offer earth friendly urns as a choice.

Golden's has a selection of environmentally-friendly urns available. These urns are made of natural and/or recycled materials that are designed to break down naturally after placement in the earth or a body of water. Urns are easily opened for scattering if so desired.

Our selection includes approximately 30 choices allowing for
personal preferences of you and your family.
View earth friendly urns

More cremation information can be found at :
www.SalemCremations.com

submitted by webmaster
Dec. 8 2010

Getting Through the Holidays

2010-11-30T12:06:00.000-08:00

Even during the holiday season, we lose our loved ones, sometimes unexpectedly, and sometimes after a prolonged illness. Grief support is so important at this time. On our website we offer links and information about grief support. If you are reading this blog and need this now, we hope that it can help you during this difficult time.

Grief Support Page

Here are a few helpful suggestions for taking care of yourself during the holiday season.

* Set priorities by doing only the things you want to or are capable of doing. And give yourself permission to say "no".

* Make a plan for your holiday celebrations-take control of them; don't let them take control of you.

*Learn to ask for and accept help from family and friends.

* Be careful not to isolate yourself. It is all right to take time for yourself, but try not to cut yourself off from the support of family and friends.

* Understand that the holidays my affect other family members. As you make plans, talk to others, share your feelings and respect others choices and needs.

* Expect to experience feelings of emotional pain. When the feelings come, embrace them.

* Accept a few invitations to be with close family or friends. Choose the ones that sound most appealing at the time and decline the ones that feel more like an obligation.

* Give yourself permission to experience joy.

submitted by webmaster
Golden Funeral Services and Oakleaf Crematory, Salem, Oregon 97301
24 HR Service 503-364-2257

Love in Flight -White Doves at Service

2010-11-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

LOVE IN FLIGHT

Love In Flight is a Salem based "dove release" business that adds extra
elegance and awe to all of your events. From weddings and birthday
celebrations to memorial and funeral services.

The loss of a loved one is never easy. A dove release can bring a feeling
of understanding and comfort, knowing that the departed is moving on to a
better place to meet old friends and family again.

At your event they will soar and join together before
they circle around and head home to the comfort of their loft. They can be
released over 50 miles away from their home in Salem Oregon and will still
return to their loft.

Free feel to contact us if you have any questions. 503-375-3827 or
503-409-4784

Oregon Worker's Comp. - Death Benefit

2010-11-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

If you believe you loved one's death was the result of an on-the-job accident or exposure, you may be entitled to death benefits from Oregon Workers Compensation.

Benefits may include burial cost and benefits to surviving family members, including a spouse, children, and other dependents.

If you have questions or need assistance with issues related to workers' compensation, please contact:

Ombudsman of Injured Workers
Toll-free: 800-927-1271 ext 7031
503-947-7031
www.oregon.gov/DCBS/OIW/

Grief Support

2010-11-08T11:47:00.000-08:00

For grief support there are many different groups available to answer your questions. However, when browsing the internet for information, Kristi A. Dyers, M.D., M.S. recommends keeping the following things in mind:

* Check the organization's privacy policy, which will tell you whether information is collected and/or shared.

* Look to see if resources on a site clearly identify the author or source. Users should be able to easily contact those who have created the site.

* Be aware that there are unlicensed, unqualified information providers and resources on the Internet that are working outside of ethical and legal boundaries.

* Do not use web site information and advice in place of the care of a personal physician or counselor.

The following groups have also been listed to be of assistance:

www.wvh.org 1015 3rd St NW Salem, Oregon 97304 503.588.3600

Willamette Valley Hospice has many different programs available. Please call them at 503.588.3600 is you have any questions. They do offer Bereavement support groups through out the year and in the summer they have a camp, Camp Mighty Oaks, for families.

GRIEF GROUPS

There is no cost for these groups, but pre-registration is required.

To register or for more information contact Bereavement Services at 503.588.3600 or toll-free at 1.800.555.2431

Adult Grief Group

Monday, 6:00-7:30 pm

November 8, 15, 22, 29

December 6, 13

Adult Grief Group

Wednesdays 1:00-2:30 pm

January 5, 12, 19, 26

February 2, 9

Grief Support Groups for Ages 5+

Tuesdays 6:00 - 7:30 pm

January 18, 25 & Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22

Grief Support Groups for Ages 5+

Tuesday 6:00 - 7:30 pm

April 5, 12, 19, 26 & May 3, 10, 17

MONTHLY DROP-IN SUPPORT GROUPS

There is no cost for these events and no registration

1st Wednesday of every month: 6:30 - 7:45 pm

or 2nd Thursday of every month: 1:00 - 2:15 pm

or 4th Thursday of every month: 12:15 - 1:30 pm

For more information please visit

www.wvh.org

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS

www.salemtcf.org or 503.743.3930

The Compassionate Friends (TCG) is a self-help support organization that assists bereaved families toward the positive resolution of grief following the death of a child. They are open to all families that have experienced the death of a child from any cause, at any age, from pre-birth to adulthood.

MADD

Visit www.madd.org/ or call 1.877.623.3435 for information and local contacts.

Free Salem Obituaries - Online

2010-11-04T07:14:00.000-07:00

Salem, Oregon - November 4 2010

V.T. Golden Funeral Services continues to offer a free online obituary. The website www.YourLovedOnes.net allows you to make a web page reference in a printed obituary and save costs with the length of text.

Our free Online Obituaries and Memorial Web Pages allows you to publish a legacy for your loved one that can be viewed by friends and family on the internet from all over the world.

Create your own free obituary and guestbook with one or two images and text. You will receive your own web address that may be published in the newspaper.

Visit our other websites for information about our cremation and funeral services:

http://www.vtgolden.com - Full Range of Funeral Packages and Information - Order Online

http://www.salemcremations.com/ - Information about Cremations

http://www.goldentraditions.tv/ - Golden Traditions - Our Legacy of Service

V.T. Golden Funeral Services and Oakleaf Crematory, Salem, Oregon 97301
503.364.2257

submitted by webmaster

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA PROJECT

2010-09-07T13:40:00.001-07:00

We Support the Wreaths Across America Project

Sanibel, FL: The Arlington Wreath project was started by Morrill Worcester in 1992 with the donation and laying of 5000 Christmas wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery. It was relatively obscure until 2005 when a photo of the stones adorned with wreaths and covered in snow circulated around the internet. The project received National attention. In 2006 over 150 State & National cemeteries held wreath laying ceremonies simultaneously. By 2008 over 300 locations held wreath laying ceremonies in every state, Puerto Rico and 24 overseas cemeteries. Over 100,000 wreaths were placed on veterans graves. Over 60,000 volunteers participated. WAA reached out to thousands of children with the message of Remember, Honor and Teach. The importance of honoring each fallen serviceman as an individual is stressed. The wreath laying is now held each year on the second Saturday of December and December 13, 2008 was unanimously voted by the US Congress as “Wreaths Across America™ Day”. By offering sponsorships to the public, Wreaths Across America hopes that one day every veteran’s resting place will be adorned with a wreath.

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home is one of over 850 Veterans & Family Memorial Care preferred providers nationwide that is proud to be an official local sponsorship outlet for Wreaths Across America. From now through November 1st those wishing to show their support by sponsoring a $15 Wreath to adorn the grave of a hero may do so at Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home.

Did You Know?

2010-08-31T06:45:00.000-07:00

> That Virgil T. Golden funeral home is one of the oldest and established funeral homes in Salem (since 1949)? www.VTGolden.com

> That they have their own crematorium and have set up a separate web site just for cremation
information? www.SalemCremations.com

> That they offer free online obituaries, and web pages for their customers?
www.YourLovedOnes.net

> That they have a strong community involvement and a separate web site to showcase their traditions? www.GoldenTraditions.tv

"At Golden's, we strive to make every service a meaningful tribute to life, in a way that will bring comfort and strength to family and friends."

The Value of Pre-Planning
Pre-planning final arrangements is the choice of more and more today. You choose the type of service, you decide the financial arrangements, you let your family know that everything is taken care of. This way they will be able to spend time with each other and friends, and not be concerned over the what ifs. Please click through to our web site so we will be able to answer any questions you may have.

New Web Site for Salem Oregon Cremations Launched

2010-08-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

Salem, Oregon - August 2010 - Virgil T. Golden Funeral Services, has launched a new website to address the need in the Salem community for cremation arrangements that save costs for families. “www.SalemCremations.com has all the information that a family needs, from costs, forms for cremation to different urns and jewelry items are available on the site so that families are able to review everything in the comfort of their own home”, says Tom Golden.

The site was designed to be an information resource on cremations with a page of answers to frequently asked questions such as “What is a Cremation?”, “May I have a viewing and a cremation?”, “Is embalming required to have a visitation before a cremation?”, and “Are all of the cremated remains returned?”.

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Services is one of the few funeral homes in the Willamette Valley with a state-of-the-art crematorium located within their building.

www.SalemCremations.com web site is a separate site from their main web site, http://www.vtgolden.com/, which is one of the few funeral home web sites in Oregon that has an ecommerce shopping cart for online selection of traditional services as well as urns for cremations. A separate site, www.YourLovedOnes.net , offers free online memorials and web pages for loved ones.

Background information: from web site
In October of 1949, a new business opened its doors in Salem, with the goal of providing the very best in warm, personal service at a family's most difficult time. It was named Virgil T. Golden Company Mortuary. The original partnership, later changed to Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service, was founded by Virgil T. Golden, a Salem area funeral director for 22 years and his wife, Grace S. Golden, a registered nurse.

Golden was well-known and respected in the Salem community by the time Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service opened. Virgil served for many years as a Deputy Marion County Coroner, and had been associated with the funeral industry for twenty-two years in 1949. Virgil's wife Grace, a registered nurse, provided a welcome and caring feeling to the families Goldens served.

Contact:
Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home
605 Commercial St SE
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 503.364.2257
Fax: 503.364.2897

submitted by webmaster

2010-07-20T06:53:00.000-07:00

Cremations - Frequently Asked Questions

1- What is Cremation?

Cremation is not a type of funeral service, but is a process where a container is placed in the cremation chamber, and the temperature is raised to 1850 degrees Fahrenheit. After approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours, the actual act of cremation is complete. The remaining bone fragments are known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are the carefully removed from the cremation chamber. Any metal is removed with a magnet and disposed of in an approved manner. The cremated remains are then processed into fine particles and are placed in an urn selected by the family. Throughout the cremation process, a carefully controlled labeling system ensures correct identification.

2- May I have viewing and a cremation?

Yes. Cremation is simply the process for final disposition. Prior to cremation, family may have visitation for family and or family and friends.

3 - Is embalming required if I wish to have visitation before cremation?

No. If cremation may not take place within 24 hours of the death, then either mortuary refrigeration or embalming does need to occur. We are able to have visitation with mortuary refrigeration, but the State does limit the time to 6 hours. If the family would wish to have a longer period of time, embalming may be an option, but only with the family giving explicit permission for embalming to occur.

4 - May the family witness the cremation?

Yes, at Oakleaf Crematory the family witness the placement into the cremation chamber. Some religious groups and cultures do witness the placement as part of the funeral service.

For more frequently asked questions go to www.SalemCremations.com/faq.htm
How to Order a cremation?
www.SalemCremations.com/ORDERS.HTM

SalemCremations.com is published by
V.T. Golden Funeral Services and Oakleaf Creamatory, Salem, Oregon

Camp Mighty Oaks

2010-06-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

We Support Camp Mighty Oaks for Kids This Summer

Camp Mighty Oaks will be held on July 10, 2010

Each year Camp Mighty Oaks provides an experience that supports children and families who are grieving the death of a loved one. Campers enjoy fun-filled activities that promote hope and healing.

Visit the Camp Mighty Oaks web page.

submitted by webmaster
Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service

A Brief Sketch of the History of Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service

In October of 1949, a new business opened its doors in Salem, with the goal of providing the very best in warm, personal service at a family's most difficult time. It was named Virgil T. Golden Company Mortuary. The original partnership, later changed to Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service, was founded by Virgil T. Golden, a Salem area funeral director for 22 years and his wife, Grace S. Golden, a registered nurse.

Golden was well-known and respected in the Salem community by the time Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service opened. Virgil served for many years as a Deputy Marion County Coroner, and had been associated with the funeral industry for twenty-two years in 1949. Virgil's wife Grace, a registered nurse, provided a welcome and caring feeling to the families Goldens served.

Through the years, Goldens has upheld the ideals of its founders and continues to be at the forefront of the funeral service industry. With the recent remodeling of our building, Goldens now offers full cremation service, being one of the few funeral homes in the Willamette Valley with the newest, state-of-the-art crematorium. Oakleaf Crematory, located in the same building was licensed and opened in December 1999. This provides us with the ability to maintain complete control of the cremation process. Leading edge technology has also led to Golden's offering a website for you to browse for information on pre-planning, memorial service and funeral options and related services on a local level. Whatever you desire, Goldens is committed to helping you during your time of need.

Tom C. Golden carries on the legacy of professional caring service. He officially joined the staff in 1960 following apprenticeship in Santa Barbara, CA and schooling in San Fransisco, CA. He was a founding board member of Willamette Valley Hospice, and has been involved with several other civic and non-profit boards through the years. He also served on the State Mortuary & Cemetery Board and was awarded with Salem's Distinguished Service Award in 1995.

Tom P. Golden, grandson to Virgil and Grace, also now serves on staff. Like his father, he apprenticed in California prior to schooling at Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon, where he graduated at the top of his class. He too has had the opportunity to serve on several boards such as, Rotary, United Way, Salem Library Foundation and the Oregon Funeral Directors Association.

All of us at Golden's are dedicated to be of service to you. As our founder Virgil T."Tommy" Golden said, "The impossible only takes a moment longer."

Earth Friendly Urns for Salem Cremations

2010-05-03T15:48:00.000-07:00

Golden's Funeral Home in Salem, Oregon has been providing funeral services for three generations. They have been offering Green funeral packages for over two years and are a member of the Green Burial Council, being the only approved provider in the Salem area and one of eight in Oregon. Golden's has a selection of environmentally-friendly urns available. These urns are made of natural and/or recycled materials that are designed to break down naturally after placement in the earth or a body of water. Urns are easily opened for scattering if so desired. To view Earth friendly urns on the Golden's web site, click this link >
Salem Oregon Earth-Friendly Cremation Urns

David Brown, webmaster

2010-03-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

Veteran Benefits

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service will assist you or your family in applying for any benefits the veteran or family of the veteran is eligible to receive. Many times all we need is a photocopy of the DD214 and/or honorable discharge papers. The four most common benefits available to veterans and their families are:

1) Gravesite options. The VA provides veterans and dependents a variety of gravesite options for burial. The choices may vary from National Cemetery to National Cemetery. The options may be for full casket burial, columbarium or in-ground niche for cremated remains. Spaces may not be selected prior to the death, and then the National Cemetery will select the appropriate grave space for the family at the time of need. A space is saved for the surviving spouse, and eligibility is not determined by who should pass away first, the veteran or spouse. For full casket burial, the first burial is at a deeper level and the second burial is above the first. For placement of an urn, a space is also saved for the second urn. A memorial marker is provided at the National Cemetery and in time, both names would be placed on the single marker.

2) A memorial marker. A veteran is eligible to receive a memorial marker if burial has taken place in a private cemetery. The marker, either granite or bronze, and inscription is provided at no cost. However, the family is responsible to have the marker set at the cemetery.

3) A flag. The family of the veteran is eligible to receive a flag. The flag is approximately five feet by nine feet and is made of cotton. How the flag is displayed at the service is decided by the family. The flag may drape over casket or the flag may already be folded in a triangle. Many times the flag presentation is part of the service, or if the family elects, the flag may be given to the family privately.

4) Military Honors. Military Honors are available for eligible veterans. The type of honors is decided by the family. Full military honors traditionally include pall bearers, gun salute, flag presentation and a bugler. Sometimes families will select to have only a flag presentation, which may be two people from the service presenting the flag.

Questions

If you have questions of VA directly, the VA home page is http://www.va.gov/, for burial and memorial benefits http://cem.va.gov, for Military Funeral Honors http://www.military funeralhonors.osd.mil and for military records and medals contact http://www.nara.gov/regional/mpr.html.

If you have questions regarding Arlington National Cemetery, as Arlington may have different requirements from other National Cemeteries, go to http://arlingtoncemetery.org/ or call them at 703.607.8585.

Again, Golden's is here to be of assistance. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 503.364.2257 and we will make sure your questions are answered.

Eco-Friendly Burial Packages

2010-03-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home Now Offers Green Funeral Packages

Green" Funeral Packages are similar to the "Traditional" packages, including having visitation available, but embalming is not used in the care of the individual. "Green" caskets are an option as well. Golden's is here to answer any of your questions regarding "Green" funerals.

Green Burial Packages

A Traditional "Green" Funeral Ceremony consists of a service in our chapel or a church with a procession or remeet at the cemetery. With a "Green" funeral, mortuary refrigeration would be used in the care of the deceased.Embalming would NOT take place. More information>

Earth Friendly Burial Caskets
We carry green caskets on our web site > view options

Visit our web site for other green options >

Contact us directly: 24/7 with questions : (503) 364-2257

V.T Golden Launches Free Obit Guestbook

2009-09-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

September 2009

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home has added a new obituary guest book to its associated web site, www.YourLovedOnes.net , that offers free obituaries and web pages for families of deceased loved ones. The guest book is in a beta testing period and can be accessed if you know of an obituary published on our site.

Create your own free obituary and guestbook with one or two images and text. You will receive your own web address that may be published in the newspaper. By providing free online obituaries, we are helping families to have an option of publishing the web address of a longer obituary rather than the full text in a print newspaper.

Both are a free service provided by Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service. (www.vtgolden.com) .

Memorial Day Trip to Willamette National Cemetery

2009-05-24T13:57:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Events

A Memorial Day trip to Willamette National Cemetery will take place tomorrow on May 25th.

We take two small buses to the VA cemetery as a Memorial Day tradition sponsored by Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home to honor Oregon veterans.

Approximately 40 people will join Tom Golden and staff for a brief memorial service on site, time to visit gravesites, and a lunch afterwards. Although the lunch is not hosted by Golden's, the strawberry shortcake is. Reservations for this need to be made by January as it is a popular group event sponsored by Golden's and there is limited seating.

For 2010 Reservations check with Goldens at 503.364.2257 for event information.

2009-04-29T10:30:00.000-07:00

At the recent Oregon Funeral Directors Assoc.(OFDA) convention, Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service was presented with an Excellence Award. This award is based upon various requirements from OFDA.

The mission of the Oregon Funeral Directors Association (OFDA) shall be to promote high professional standards and unity, while encouraging excellence in funeral service; and to educate the membership and the public about our profession.
For more information, please visit http://www.ofda.org/

Our Legacy
A Brief Sketch of the History of Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service

In October of 1949, a new business opened its doors in Salem, with the goal of providing the very best in warm, personal service at a family's most difficult time. It was named Virgil T. Golden Company Mortuary. The original partnership, later changed to Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service, was founded by Virgil T. Golden, a Salem area funeral director for 22 years and his wife, Grace S. Golden, a registered nurse.Golden was well-known and respected in the Salem community by the time Virgil T. Golden Funeral Service opened. Virgil served for many years as a Deputy Marion County Coroner, and had been associated with the funeral industry for twenty-two years in 1949. Virgil's wife Grace, a registered nurse, provided a welcome and caring feeling to the families Goldens served.Through the years, Goldens has upheld the ideals of its founders and continues to be at the forefront of the funeral service industry. With the recent remodeling of our building, Goldens now offers full cremation service, being one of the few funeral homes in the Willamette Valley with the newest, state-of-the-art crematorium. Oakleaf Crematory, located in the same building was licensed and opened in December 1999. This provides us with the ability to maintain complete control of the cremation process. Leading edge technology has also led to Golden's offering a website for you to browse for information on pre-planning, memorial service and funeral options and related services on a local level. Whatever you desire, Goldens is committed to helping you during your time of need.Tom C. Golden carries on the legacy of professional caring service. He officially joined the staff in 1960 following apprenticeship in Santa Barbara, CA and schooling in San Fransisco, CA. He was a founding board member of Willamette Valley Hospice, and has been involved with several other civic and non-profit boards through the years. He also served on the State Mortuary & Cemetery Board and was awarded with Salem's Distinguished Service Award in 1995.Tom P. Golden, grandson to Virgil and Grace, also now serves on staff. Like his father, he apprenticed in California prior to schooling at Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon, where he graduated at the top of his class. He too has had the opportunity to serve on several boards such as, Rotary, United Way, Salem Library Foundation and the Oregon Funeral Directors Association.All of us at Golden's are dedicated to be of service to you. As our founder Virgil T."Tommy" Golden said, "The impossible only takes a moment longer."

Grief Care Support

2009-03-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

Grief Support

For grief support there are many different groups available to answer your questions. However, when browsing the internet for information, Kristi A. Dyers, M.D., M.S. recommends keeping the following things in mind:

* Check the organization's privacy policy, which will tell you whether information is collected and/or shared.

* Look to see if resources on a site clearly identify the author or source. Users should be able to easily contact those who have created the site.

* Be aware that there are unlicensed, unqualified information providers and resources on the Internet that are working outside of ethical and legal boundaries.

* Do not use web site information and advice in place of the care of a personal physician or counselor.

The following groups have also been listed to be of assistance:

WILLAMETTE VALLEY HOSPICE
www.wvh.org 1015 3rd St NW Salem, Oregon 97304 503.588.3600

Willamette Valley Hospice has many different programs available. Please call them at 503.588.3600 is you have any questions. They do offer Bereavement support groups through out the year and in the summer they have a camp, Camp Mighty Oaks, for families.

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS
www.salemtcf.org/ or Phyllis Murray 503.910.0652

The Compassionate Friends (TCG) is a self-help support organization that assists bereaved families toward the positive resolution of grief following the death of a child. They are open to all families that have experienced the death of a child from any cause, at any age, from pre-birth to adulthood.

MADD
Visit www.madd.org or call 1.877.623.3435 for information and local contacts.

GriefShare is a special seminar and support group for people grieving the loss of someone close. This group is sponsored by people who understand what you are experiencing and want to offer you comfort and encouragement during this difficult time.
GriefShare is a nondenominational group and features biblical teaching on grief and recovery topics. For more information contact Shirley at 503.269.2757
GriefShare meets at Lakepoint Community Care 1024 Liberty St NE in Salem.

2009-02-09T09:18:00.001-08:00

Golden Traditions

2008-12-26T10:14:00.000-08:00

During the holidays we celebrate traditions. At Golden's we continue to honor certain themes that we have established as our own traditions throughout the year.

Example of a Golden Traditions Theme:
A Source of comfort ...
Surrounded by friends and family

The greatest help a family will experience at the time of a death comes from friends whose very presence brings comfort and strength. At Golden’s, we make sure that friends have every chance to show their concern. Giving individual cards to those who attend, allows friends to leave a message of encouragement. Reception facilities provide an opportunity for friends and family to share.

We have presented this in a multimedia presentation at http://www.goldentraditions.tv/

Salem Funeral Packages - Green Options

2008-11-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home Now Offers Green Funeral Packages

Green Burial Packages

Contact us directly: 24/7 with questions : (503) 364-2257

Free Online Obituaries and Memorials

2008-09-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

Virgil T. Golden Funeral Home is now offering free online obituaries and memorial web pages.

For more details contact our office.

503-364-2257.

Pre-Planning

2008-08-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

Avoid Frustration and Stress During a Difficult time :
Plan a Funeral in Advance

Proper funeral planning involves a free consultation with a pre-need counselor or funeral director who will provide different options to fit your specific needs. You may find the information you are looking for on our web site, or you may wish to call and visit with us over the telephone. After that, a time to visit in person may be arranged so that we will be able to answer all of your questions.

Contact Us by phone : 503-364-2257 or use our pre-planning online form.