Losing a loved one can be the most painful event in a person's life. Few people are prepared to cope with the emotional and physical feelings they are experiencing. Understanding the process of grief and having a support system are essential to help one reconcile the loss of a loved one.

Through our 'Continuing Care Program', we offer continued care and support for the families we serve. It makes Gillies Funeral Home unique among other local funeral homes. It is the longest established and most comprehensive program in the area and is an essential part of our service to families.

After the loss of a loved one, Support Services Coordinator Clarice Mellema arranges a personal visit with a primary family member. Clarice has attended many grief workshops and has completed two of Dr. Alan Wolfelt's training programs at the Center for Loss and Life Transition in Fort Collins, CO. She has also received an accredited certification in Death and Grief Studies from Colorado State University.

Gillies special 'gift of remembrance' to families is the 'Memorial Tribute Video'. It is a pictorial tribute of your loved one, in life, combined with scenery and music on a video tape. It has become a treasured memory to many families.

In addition, Gillies Funeral Home has a lending library of numerous books and video tapes to help people understand loss and the reconciliation process.