I don't necessarily want to send flowers, even though they're a nice gesture and he probably wouldn't take care of a plant. Would a donation to the Cancer Society be nice? Or any other suggestions?
2007-01-19 06:12:36 · 14 answers · asked by Sarah S 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Sorry, should have specified. Coworker is out of state, worked together before husband got transferred to another plant within same company.
2007-01-19 06:24:52 · update #1
Sending a card, prepare a meal, and of course donating to a charity is always a great idea. If a bunch of you wanted to combine a gift you could even have a tree planted in her memory. No matter how you show your condolences he will appreciate it.
2007-01-19 06:19:40 · answer #1 · answered by Michelle 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Often the obituary will tell you if a specific charity is mentioned -- like it will say instead of flowers, contributions to XXXX...
Do you know if this person has some charity that is of particular interest? If the person died of cancer, then the American Cancer Society is certainly a good choice. But if the person was an animal lover, then an animal charity might be a good choice.
Alternatively, gifts of food are practical. You could either arrange to send food (like a fruit basket) or you could send a gift card for a restaurant, with a note saying you wish you could take them out to dinner yourself, but since you are in a different state, you hope this gift card will give them a welcome break from cooking for themselves.
2007-01-19 15:45:36 · answer #2 · answered by Corinnique 3 · 3⤊ 1⤋
A card acknowledging their loss is all that is required. Most people experience not enjoying eating alone. Give the person grieving a couple of weeks and invite them to accompany you, your treat, for a meal or dutch with a group of your co-workers. Do not donate to a charity unless one has been specified in lieu of flowers.
This question shows you are a very caring person...a rarity in today's world.
2007-01-19 14:34:46 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
I think it is a good idea to not send flowers. I know theyre a pretty common gift, but really, they die, and who wants to watch that after having lost someone? I think the donation idea is a good one. It would also be thoughtful to send a card, perhaps with a bit of money in it.
If you're not near them, then it's hard to do the other traditional thing, which is cook for the beraved so they don't have to worry about it. But you could still send something like fruit or chocolate. It's a good idea to send them something you know from past experience that they like, so they'll know you actually thought about this, and care about them.
2007-01-19 16:44:45 · answer #4 · answered by kivrin9 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
If his wife died from cancer a donation to the ACS would be a nice gesture. Also send him a nice sympathy card.
2007-01-19 14:29:35 · answer #5 · answered by Ryan's mom 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would think that a card with some thoughtful choice of words would be fine.At times of grief sometimes takes awhile to read thru all the cards but is always a nice gesture.
2007-01-19 17:47:17 · answer #6 · answered by blonderaven45 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Did the obituary specify if a charity has been established for donations? If so, send a check in the name of the spouse to the charity.
You can always send a check in with a card saying something like "We were very sorry to learn of your loss. We care enclosing a check. Please use it as you see fit. We will continue to keep you in our prayers. Let us know if we can help in any way"
Hope this helps!
2007-01-19 16:48:04 · answer #7 · answered by Lizzie 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Most times in the obits they list where donations can be made to. If not listed you should know your friend well enough to make a decision on your own. Like if the spouse like animals, send one to the MSPCA etc.
2007-01-19 18:34:07 · answer #8 · answered by kb201A 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
How about supplying them with a home cooked something? Maybe a comfort food like Mac & Cheese, that you can supply re-heating instructions with. They're having a difficult enough time, even more so if they've lost their 'cook' and may want to avoid eating at home altogether. It will be appreciated - I know from a similiar situation.
2007-01-19 14:25:38 · answer #9 · answered by Deadra 2 · 3⤊ 0⤋
A donation to the charity of his choice is a great idea.
2007-01-19 14:15:50 · answer #10 · answered by gtahvfaith 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋