Virtual Funerals

While social critics like to go into orbit over the social isolation brought on by computer use, there is an interesting counterpoint at the time of death.

As Lois and I enter the age stratosphere, we note that our friends are dying in many locations on the planet. We could become funeral junkies, traveling near and far to pay last respects.

Instead, we can sign the online guest books provided by many newspapers and funeral homes. Actually, more significant comments can be left for the grieving than would be possible if we were at the funeral service.

One source that searches newspapers is:
http://www.legacy.com/Obituaries.asp?Page=ObitFinder
The websites of funeral homes in the vicinity of the deceased may also produce results.

Now we can be much more selective about the funerals that we attend while creating a lasting presence at the memorials of many others.