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I had a neighbour who embalmed his own wife. (lemmy.world)
submitted 1 year ago by to c/microblogmemes@lemmy.world
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[–] 55 points 1 year ago (3 children)

Context is really important. If he’s an undertaker it might be a bit odd, but a final act of love for his wife.

But if he’s a trucker, for example, that’s more than slightly odd.

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  • [–] [S] 15 points 1 year ago* (1 child)

    He was a very occasional funeral director when he was sober enough to run one on behalf of his friend who owned the home. He wasn't even professionally trained at any of it, but yeah for some reason they let him embalm her and so her hair and makeup and all. I guess in small towns it's not that uncommon for the undertaker to make up their relatives, but my guess would be that it's a big no no to embalm them even when you are the undertaker, which my neighbour definitely wasn't. It's amazing what an old boys club small town boomer friendship can result in.

    As odd as he was and usually full of a barrel of terrible whiskey, I still miss him. We generally agree that he committed suicide.

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  • [–] 6 points 1 year ago (1 child)

    In funeral director circles, the topic of embalming your loved ones comes up a lot. Some people want to, so they know they get the best care. Some people, like me, would rather ask an embalmer they trust to do it.

    As far as embalming certification, it varies by state. Colorado is notorious for embalming not requiring licensure. Minnesota requires a 4 year degree. So it's hard to say if he was official or not.

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