Planning Ahead

Session 1 - A Conversation About Funeral Planning

Most of us know we should think about it. Few of us do. In this class, Kurt Edenbach, funeral director and owner of Memorial Funeral Homes, walks you through what funeral planning actually involves - and why doing it now is one of the most generous things you can do for the people you love. You'll learn what decisions need to be made, what questions to ask, and how to make your wishes known in a way that sticks. No pressure, no sales pitch. Just honest, practical guidance from someone who has spent decades helping families navigate one of life’s most significant moments.

Session 2 - Beyond the Traditional: Innovative Funeral and Memorial Options

Funerals have changed—and the options available today might surprise you. Water cremation, solidified remains, terramation, cremated remains transformed into jewelry—these aren’t distant possibilities. They’re available now, and families are choosing them. In this class, Kurt Edenbach, funeral director and owner of Memorial Funeral Homes, explores what’s become possible when it comes to honoring the people we lose. Whether you’re drawn to the environmental angle, looking for something deeply personal, or simply curious about what exists beyond the traditional, this class is a judgment-free space to explore your options before you need to make any decisions.

Kurt Edenbach is a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He completed his professional training at Gupton Jones College in Atlanta. Kurt has worked full-time as a licensed funeral director since 1997 and holds a R.I. insurance license to assist with providing preplanning options for the community. He also invests time in furthering the profession as a member of the R.I. Funeral Directors Association and an active member of Selected Independent Funeral Homes, as well as an adjunct professor at the FINE Mortuary School in Massachusetts. Kurt is the funeral director/co-owner of Memorial Funeral Homes.

Kim Shute has experienced loss first-hand after her husband of 19 years died suddenly of leukemia at the age of 48. Since her husband’s death she has dedicated herself to helping fellow grievers through bereavement both professionally and personally. Kim is the director of community relations at Memorial Funeral Homes.