At Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery, we believe in helping families not only honor loved ones but also find ways to heal together. If you’re navigating childhood grief in your family, this guide is here to offer support and understanding.

Understanding Childhood Grief

Children Express Grief Differently 

Every child experiences grief uniquely. Their feelings may be expressed in a variety of ways, whether through sadness, anger, confusion, or even physical symptoms like stomachaches or trouble sleeping. Some children may seem unaffected initially and process their emotions later through questions or spontaneous sadness.

Age Matters 

Grieving behaviors and responses often correlate with a child’s age. Young children may not fully understand the permanence of death, while older children and teenagers may struggle more with existential questions or feelings of isolation. Recognizing their developmental stage is key to understanding their needs.

How to Support Grieving Children

1. Create an Open Environment for Communication 

When a loved one passes away, children may sense the tension around them. They need a safe space where they feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their emotions. Use clear, age-appropriate language when discussing death. For example:

• Instead of saying, “They’ve gone to sleep,” explain that death means the person’s body has stopped working.
• Encourage questions and be honest, even if the answer is, “I don’t know.”

2. Acknowledge Their Feelings 

Reassure your child that all their emotions—whether it’s sadness, fear, anger, or even relief—are valid. Avoid phrases like “Be brave” or “Don’t cry.” Instead, say, “It’s okay to feel the way you do,” or reflect on their emotions by observing, “You seem upset today; do you want to talk about it?”

3. Maintain Routines for Stability 

Children often find comfort in familiar routines. While it’s important to acknowledge the change that grief brings, maintaining day-to-day activities (such as mealtimes, school, or hobbies) helps them feel grounded and secure.

4. Introduce Ways to Express Grief 

Some children may struggle to articulate their feelings, but creative outlets can help. Encourage drawing, journaling, or writing letters to the loved one they’ve lost. These activities allow them to process their emotions in a safe and constructive way.

5. Be Mindful of Your Own Grief 

Children look to adults for cues on how to cope. Sharing your feelings, within reason, can help normalize the experience of grief and show that it’s okay to be vulnerable. However, be mindful not to overwhelm them with adult-sized grief—create balance by ensuring they feel emotionally supported.

6. Seek External Support When Needed 

Sometimes, a child’s grief may require additional support beyond what you can provide. Watch for prolonged changes in behavior, withdrawal, or trouble coping with daily life. Professional grief counselors or support groups can provide children and families with tools to manage their emotions. Wyuka offers grief support resources to help families during these times—visit us online at Wyuka.com or call us at 402-474-3600 for more information.

The Importance of Memorializing the Loved One

Encourage children to be involved in remembering the loved one who has passed. It could be as simple as crafting a memory box, planting a tree, or lighting a candle during special occasions. Memorialization helps children maintain a connection to the person they’ve lost while finding comfort and meaning in honoring their memory.

Building a Community Around Loss

Loss can feel isolating, but it’s important for children to understand they are not alone. Utilize your community—whether it’s family, friends, teachers, or faith groups—to provide extra support. Sometimes, speaking with peers who have had similar experiences, such as in a grief support program, offers a sense of belonging that fosters healing.

At Wyuka Funeral Home & Cemetery, we emphasize the value of coming together as a community during times of loss. We’re here to provide guidance, comfort, and support every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Helping a grieving child may feel like an overwhelming responsibility, but your compassion and presence make a world of difference. Whether it’s through talking openly, creating healing rituals, or simply listening, you’re giving them the tools to process their feelings and move forward while cherishing their loved one’s memory.

For more grief support resources, help with funeral planning, or guidance on navigating loss, visit us online at Wyuka.com or call us directly at 402-474-3600. You are not alone—together, we can find a path forward.

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Understanding Funeral Etiquette

Funeral etiquette involves a set of traditional customs and behaviors that guide our actions and interactions during a funeral. These practices ensure that we show respect to the deceased and their family, creating a supportive atmosphere. Here are some fundamental aspects of funeral etiquette you should be aware of:

• Dress Appropriately: Wearing subdued and conservative attire is typically expected. Black, navy, or dark gray are safe color choices unless the family has requested otherwise.
• Punctuality is Key: Arrive at the venue on time. Being late can disrupt the service and may be seen as disrespectful.
• Express Condolences Thoughtfully: Offer genuine condolences to the grieving family without making the focus about your own experiences or emotions.
• Respect Cultural and Religious Traditions: Different cultures and religions have distinct funeral practices. Be aware and respectful of these variations.

Preparing for a Funeral

Being prepared can alleviate some of the stress associated with attending a funeral. Here are a few steps to help you prepare:

• Research the Venue: Know the location and time of the service, and plan your route in advance to ensure timely arrival.
• Consider Bringing a Sympathy Card or Sending Flowers: A heartfelt note or a floral arrangement can convey your sympathy and support to the family.
• Prepare What to Say: Think about what you’ll say to the grieving family. Simple expressions like “I’m sorry for your loss” or “I remember [the deceased] fondly” can be meaningful.

Navigating the Funeral Service

During the service, maintaining decorum is crucial. Follow these guidelines to ensure you’re respectful and supportive:

• Follow the Lead of Family Members: During the service, observe and follow the actions of the immediate family. This will help you understand the flow of the ceremony and when to participate.
• Silence Your Devices: Make sure your phone and other electronic devices are silenced to avoid interruptions.
• Participate When Appropriate: Participate in prayers, hymns, or readings if you’re comfortable, but don’t feel pressured to do so if it conflicts with your beliefs.
• Be Mindful of Photography: Unless explicitly allowed, refrain from taking photos during the service.

Conclusion

Navigating a funeral service with grace involves understanding and respecting the customs and traditions that honor the deceased and support the grieving family. By following these guidelines, you can contribute positively to the somber but meaningful occasion.

For assistance regarding funeral services, please visit the Wyuka website. If you have any questions or need further support, the dedicated professionals at Wyuka Cemetery are available and ready to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out by calling 402-474-3600.

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Services for Harley will begin at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Wyuka Funeral Home, Lincoln. Viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m. Memorials may be directed to the family for further designation.

The service may be viewed live by clicking on the following link: Wyuka Funeral Home – YouTube

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It’s commonly used today to help preserve the body so it can be held at viewing and visitation events, or even for medical purposes such as an autopsy. It’s also typically utilized if there is going to be a long time between when the death occurs and the burial/ cremation process happens.

Is it required?

While embalming may not be required by law, it’s often considered a necessary part of the funeral process. It’s also often required if the body is being transported long distances. Funeral homes also commonly require embalming if the body is going to be present for public viewing.

Why do people choose to be embalmed?

One of the most important functions of embalming is to delay decomposition. This is achieved by injecting preservative fluids into the body and by preventing bacteria from entering and breaking down the tissues. Embalming also makes it possible to display the body in an attractive way, so that friends and family can say goodbye in a respectful setting. 

For many individuals, seeing the body of a loved one is an important step in grief recovery. This is especially true for relatives and children, who need tangible proof that their loved one has passed away in order to move on with their grieving process. Embalming a corpse can assist families to accept what has happened by allowing them to view their deceased loved one with their own eyes. This may make all the difference as they begin to heal from their loss.

Because of this, embalming provides deep emotional support to many families going through a difficult time. Not only does it allow friends and family members to say goodbye properly and give closure, but it also helps them process their grief more effectively over time. When done correctly, embalming can be an invaluable tool for those struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one.

Why should you not embalm

There are many reasons why you should not embalm a body. For one, it is generally unnecessary, as embalming is only required if the body hasn’t been buried before 10 days have passed since death. 

Secondly, embalming a body can be quite costly, costing an average of between $500 and $700. Compared to the cheaper alternative of having your funeral home refrigerate the body which usually amounts to around $100.

The use of embalming chemicals has been shown to pose serious risks to human health and the environment. As a result, many communities are considering bans on these chemicals or restrictions on their use.

While embalming remains a common practice today, there are alternatives that funeral homes can offer families who want to do what is best for the environment and public health. These include using refrigeration, dry ice, body donation programs, cremation (particularly as an alternative to cremation with the use of a casket), and other options that may be preferred by some families.

Questions about embalming and funerals?

If you have any questions about embalming or funeral arrangements, please contact us at Wyuka Cemetery. We will be happy to assist you in any way we can. (402) 474-3600

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November 14, 1945 ~ January 29, 2022

Валентина Михайловна Третьяк родилась в семье Михаила Афанасьевича и Ксении Артёмовны Огневых. Она родилась в августе 1944 г. в Германии, город Кёльн, в плену. Но из-за страха перед советской властью, родители уничтожили документы о том, что их дочь родилась в Германии, и она была записана 14 ноября 1945г. Они жили в трудные послевоенные годы. В семье родились ещё две девочки – Ольга, которая умерла во младенчестве, и сестра Антонина, которая до сих пор проживает в г. Минске, Беларусь.

С 1952 по 1963 г. Валентина училась в школе в городе Несвиже Минской области. После школы с 1964 по 1970 г. училась заочно в Белорусском Государственном Университете. Во время учёбы она также работала машинисткой и лаборанткой в школе, и ухаживала за больными родителями. По окончании университета 12 лет она работала учителем биологии и химии. После этого с 1975 по 2000 г. она 25 лет проработала на заводе медпрепаратов на вредном производстве инженером-микробиологом в биомициновом цеху.

В 1968 году Валентина вышла замуж и в замужестве родились у неё сын Сергей (1969) и дочь Анна (1974). Жизнь не сложилась легко и она воспитывала детей сама. В это время Валентина Михайловна часто посещала православную церковь, а с 1993 года стала членом Церкви Евангельских Христиан в городе Несвиже, где покаялась, приняла Господа своим Спасителем и приняла крещение.

В марте 2003 года Валентина приехала в гости к дочери Анне в Америку, где и осталась на постоянное место жительства и стала членом церкви в городе Линкольн, Небраска. Прожила в Америке 19 лет и всегда благодарила Бога и благословляла Его Святое Имя.

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March 7, 1944 ~ January 10, 2022

Caroline Tichota, age 77, passed away January 10, 2022, at her home in Lincoln, Nebraska.

She was born March 7, 1944, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to James Randolph and Mabel (Ahlman) Tichota. She was a graduate of Lincoln High School. She enjoyed fishing, knitting, working in her flower beds, and loved sharing time with her family.

Caroline was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Mabel Tichota and her brother, Marlan Tichota.

Caroline is survived by her son, Shaun Province, and grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Bill Roussan of Salem, Nebraska; brothers and daughters-in-law, Randolph and Katherine Tichota, James and Judy Tichota, all of Lincoln; sister-in-law Donna Tichota of Oklahoma, as well as many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, January 13, 2022, officiated by Debbie Way, at Wyuka Cemetery. Everyone is to meet in front of Wyuka Funeral Home at 10:45 for a procession. The service will be followed by a reception at Wyuka Funeral Home. Memorials may be made in care of the family. The family respectfully requests that masks be worn at the service.

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Nicole Marie Sprague, 34 years of age, joined her Savior in Heaven on Sunday, September 12, 2021.  

Nikki, as her friends and family called her, was born on April 16, 1987 in Omaha, Nebraska.  She was the oldest of four children and attended school in Elkhorn, Nebraska.  She earned a bachelor’s in Elementary Education at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.

She married the love of her life, Eric Sprague on August 8, 2009.  Together they built a beautiful life as they welcomed three children, Alexiana Marie, age 10, Bentley Mark, age 6, and Landyn Ryan age 4.  They attended City Light Church and were active in their kid’s school community.  Nikki loved plants, thrifting, and healthy living but most of all she loved her Jesus and her family.  They enjoyed taking trips and having adventures of all kinds.  She and Eric were an amazing team and together they loved to tackle  home and garden projects. 

Left behind to carry on her legacy of faith and light are her beloved husband, Eric Sprague, her three children, Alexiana, Bentley, and Landyn; her parents Mike and Chris Heger, siblings Bri Emery and brother in law Justin Emery, Kayla Heger, and Mike Heger; grandparents Joyce Heger and Gordon and Susan Yager; parent’s in law Mark and Deb Sprague, sisters in law, Kristi Roddel and brother in law Tom Roddel, and Jami Spaulding as well as nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, and multitude of friends who adored her.  She was preceded in death by her grandparents Frank Romano, Sharon Yager, and Leroy Heger.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to, Nicole Sprague Donation Account at Union Bank & Trust or We Love Nikki | Fighting Breast Cancer Together.

Nikki lived a life of faith, joy, and tremendous love for all people.  She truly was a light that will burn eternal in our hearts forever.  

A celebration of Nicole’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 18, 2021, at Lincoln Berean Church (Auditorium), 6400 S. 70^th Street. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, September 17, 2021, at Wyuka Funeral Home, 3600 “O” Street, Lincoln. 

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He was born on June 7, 1926 in Lincoln, NE, where he attended school from kindergarten in Lincoln Public Schools. He received two masters’ degrees from UNL.

It was during his junior year at Lincoln High School that he began playing trumpet with the Eddie Garner Band and discovered a passion for playing big band music that would last for a lifetime.

Immediately after graduation from Lincoln High School (we never stumble, we never fall) he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Air Corps where he served during WWII.

After his military service he returned to Lincoln, regained his chops, and resumed playing trumpet with Eddie Garner, who was a father figure as well as a music mentor.

Gene enrolled at UNL where he met his true love, Gloria Sandels, who was a talented music major and pianist from Fairbury, NE.

During a 40-year teaching career, he was most proud of his service to “the kids” in Northeast Lincoln as a teacher and counselor with Lincoln Public Schools.

In fact, he pushed open the front doors of the brand new Dawes Jr. High School in 1958. The students at Dawes nicknamed him “The Wizard of Dawes” and he loved it.

After fronting his own 4-piece combo for two years, he returned to his first love – big bands. Gene followed his combo gigs playing trumpet with the popular Bud Holloway Orchestra.  He also wrote special big band arrangements and was a featured vocalist. Singing was another of his passions.  It was a meaningful part of his life in junior and senior high, at UNL, with the St. Mark’s United Methodist Church Choir, and the Lincoln Civic Chorus. Truly a moveable feast.

He is survived by: daughters Cindy Sundeen, Omaha; Lori Sundeen Soderbergh; Dallas; sons, Tom Sundeen, Lincoln and Jim Sundeen, Denver; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Gloria; son, Bill; sister, Shirley; parents and grandparents.

Visitation: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 20, 2021, at Wyuka Funeral Home, Lincoln. Private graveside service will be held at Wyuka Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the UNL Alumni Association.

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Bonnie Marie (Braymen) Ruling was born July 11, 1922 in Omaha, Nebraska. She died March 4, 2021 at Lincoln Glen in San Jose, California, at age 98.

Bonnie was the daughter of Rev. Walter Clarence Braymen and Bertha Luella (Murphy) Braymen. Bonnie was adopted into the Braymen family when her father brought her home to his wife, Bertha, from a minister’s meeting. Bertha finally had a daughter and Earl Eugene, the youngest of the six Braymen brothers would have a playmate. Earl Eugene sadly died in 1923 and Bonnie grew up the youngest Braymen with five doting older brothers: Paul, Merrill, Clark, Lawrence and Clarence Braymen.

She attended high school in Omaha where her father served as a minister at the Lefler Methodist Church, but as was the custom of the Methodist Church in those days, her father had served in many churches in eastern Nebraska, so she moved frequently.

Bonnie went to work for a telephone company in Omaha after graduating high school. She then worked as a telephone operator at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before joining United Airlines as a reservations agent in 1948. She became a stewardess in 1949 and eventually worked as a stewardess for Vice Presidents Alben Barkley and Richard Nixon. She met a variety of well-known lawmakers during her time with United.

It was on a Christmas Eve flight in 1958 that she met the love of her life F. Charles Ruling. They married in 1960 and lived in Washington, D.C., and a suburb of Philadelphia until Charlie retired as a vice president from General Electric to Saratoga, California. Charlie died in 1993.

Bonnie frequently travelled to visit her brothers and their families in California, Colorado, Nebraska, Texas and Washington. She had a great love of her family and her beloved dogs, Gabby, Barney and Marney. Bonnie enjoyed entertaining her family, visiting with her neighbors, shopping at the Stanford Shopping Center and keeping sharp with her crossword puzzles and word finder games.

A private memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Wyuka in June.

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Rebecca Ruth (Whaley) Bischoff was born on October 18, 1952 in Callaway, Nebraska, to Keith and Arlene Whaley. When Becky was 8 years old, the family moved to Sargent, Nebraska.

Becky graduated from high school in Sargent and went on to obtain a degree in Speech Pathology from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. Becky began teaching in Syracuse, Nebraska, where she met Roy Bischoff, and they were married December 20, 1975. To this union three children were born: Carson Bischoff of Loveland, Colorado; Nathan Bischoff of Cook, Nebraska; Kylee Bischoff of Lincoln, Nebraska. Becky accepted Christ as her Savior in 1965.

Becky is preceded in death by her husband, Roy Bischoff and parents Keith and Arlene Whaley. Becky is survived by her children: Carson Bischoff of Loveland, Colorado; Nathan (Chandra) Bischoff of Cook, Nebraska; Kylee Bischoff of Lincoln, Nebraska. She will fondly be remembered by her grandchildren: Reagan, Wren, and Harvey Bischoff of Cook, Nebraska. She is also survived by her sisters Jane (Phil) Jossi of Chandler, AZ; Joan (Fred) Hopkins of Webster City, IA; and Pam (Dan) Jelinek of Broken Bow, NE, as well as a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services shall be held at 10AM on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at the Cobblestone Convention Center in Broken Bow, Nebraska. Interment will take place at the Broken Bow Cemetery.

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