Traunero's Holiday Memorial Program returns

TIFFIN — Traunero Funeral Home's 28th annual All-Faith Holiday Memorial Program will take place at 1 p.m. Dec. 7. Rich Traunero, president of the funeral home, said he decided to begin the memorial program tradition after realizing that one wasn't already taking place in the area. The idea originated from a funeral home where he worked before moving back to Tiffin, he said, and was implemented when he purchased Traunero Funeral Home. "We were the first and are the only (memorial service in the community)," he said. Traunero said he and his wife, Andrea, wanted to offer an opportunity to let grieving members of the community know "we're thinking of them." In a press release, Traunero said, "The holiday period is especially painful for those reflecting on past losses," and the memorial service seeks to "provide coping strategies that will be useful as the holidays approach." The service will feature a "Hope for the Holidays" presentation by Pastor Amy Vittoria, followed by decorating a Tree of Remembrance, a candlelight ceremony in memory of all those deceased in the community and time for visiting and sharing among attendees. Traunero said attendees who RSVP prior to the service will receive a personalized, engraved ornament to place on the Tree of Remembrance and take home after the program. Personalization is done per each family's wishes, he said. It is heartwarming each year to see people gathered together, Traunero said, and the memorial program reminds families they are not alone in their journey. "Everyone gathered here is going through the same thing, but going through it differently," he said. Often, Traunero said, "Grief shared is grief diminished." According to the press release, there is no cost to attend the program and seating is limited. Traunero said reservations are suggested, but family and community members can attend without an RSVP. However, he said, anyone without a reservation will not receive an ornament. To reverse a spot at the program, Traunero said calling the funeral home at 419-447-3113 is the best option, but contact also can be made via email and Facebook.