If you’re at a loss for words when you realize a close friend has lost their father, you’re not alone. We know that losing a father is a heartbreaking moment for families, and we also know it can be difficult to think of a gift to give the family during this difficult time. Here are some perfect memorial gifts that are appropriate to give after the loss of a father.
- Keychain: A personalized keychain with a name or quote is a great memorial gift to give that will last for many years. It’s perfect for those who are always on the go – they can look at it and remember their father always.
- Garden Stones: If he loved to spend time outside, a garden stone is a great option. A decorative memorial keepsake, garden stones come in different shapes and sizes. We have a variety with the option to include your own personalized message, like a nickname or a touching message. Choose one with the best imagery to represent the man he was. Make sure to place it somewhere in the yard where he would frequent or where you know people will see it often.
- Basket of Needs: For many family members, losing a father takes a drain on mental, physical and emotional states. Create a gift basket filled with small self-care items the family might need during their time of grief. It’s easy to get overwhelmed during this heartbreaking time, so providing a basic basket of useful items will help your friends and loved ones remember to take care of themselves while juggling estate management meetings, attorney appointments and funeral arrangements.
- Photo Album: A personalized photo album, filled with meaningful pictures from the father who has passed, is a wonderful gift option. Find one in his favorite color, and make sure it has pictures from all years of life. Alternatively, you can find another photo gift option, such as a personalized photo frame, canvas or ornament.
- Flowers and a Card: Sometimes, even a simple vase of flowers and a sympathy card are all you need to give to a grieving family. You don’t have to go over the top with it. A simple note about how their father affected your life positively or how you’re thinking of them during this time will go a long way. If you’re unsure what flowers to get, visit a local florist and explain. They’re knowledgeable on the appropriate flowers for the passing of a father as well as what arrangements will look best based on the family’s preferences.
- Jewelry: Simple jewelry can be a great sympathy gift. Consider something like personalized dog tags if their father was in the military, or something else that is significant to his life. For many, the original dog tags are memorialized in a shadow box, so most can’t wear them on a day-to-day basis. Gifting a personalized dog tag gives you more creativity than the standard-issue tags many military personnel wear.
- Guestbook: If the family is holding a memorial or funeral service, consider giving a guestbook. It’s a bit more out-of-the-box than standard gifts, but it might save the family from spending the additional cost through the funeral home. They’ll be grateful for the gift and the chance to know all who came to show their support. Look for one with lines and blank pages so attendees have options to leave a brief message with their name.
- A Clean House: Offer to clean the family’s house. While it might seem insignificant, weekly cleaning chores are often swept to the side during the chaos of funeral planning. Offer to do the dishes, take out the trash or vacuum the living areas. Even sorting through mail can help significantly. The family will feel a little more stable during their time of grief, even if just for a bit.
- A Cooked Meal: Cook the family a meal one night. Most people will have dropped off casseroles or other foods that reheat well, but nothing beats a fresh, home-cooked meal. Offer to make a spread of delicious food, and don’t forget to include some of their father’s favorite dishes. They’ll love having a fresh hot meal to eat. If you can, go the extra mile and stay to help clean up after!
The loss of a father can turn a family’s world upside down. If you’re struggling to figure out what to do for them during their time of grief, think of things that will help the family with everyday activities along with them memorializing their father.
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