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Skyman00 asked in Society & CultureEtiquette · 6 years ago

Tips on Wake and Funeral etiquette? Can I attend only one and not the other?

Background information: My son's Grandfather died on Wednesday morning. My son is 22 years old. My ex-wife and I have been on excellent terms for many years and her entire family always liked me very much. We were together for over 6 years. She called me in tears and asked me to wake up my son and break the terrible news to him, about his grandfather. My son was devastated. He was very close to his "Pops". He was, "beside himself", as they say. The next day, my daughter (from my first marriage) and I sent beautiful flower arrangements to my ex-wife and her mother. My ex-wife texted me and thanked me twice and we exchanged some thoughts by text, about her dad.

The family is holding a wake/viewing on Friday and graveside services followed by a big get together at a hall on Saturday. The family is a very large and informal, communal type of family. They have not officially invited anyone to attend, but by word of mouth, they expect to see about 150- 200 people attending.

I have to work every Friday and Saturday. Is it okay to attend just the graveside services and the after event on Saturday, without attending the viewing/wake and memorial service on Friday? Can I just show up, with my daughter, to the graveside services and then bring some food and beverages with us to the after event? I don't want to assume that because I'm very close to my son and I knew his grandfather and the family very well, that I can just do whatever I want.

4 Answers

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  • Bec
    Lv 7
    6 years ago

    I'd say that's fine. I personally chose not to go to the burial of my aunt or grandmother. I went to the funeral but had my other grandparents pick me up because I didn't want to be there. The rest of my family did.

    Death affects everyone differently, so you may not be alone in only going to certain parts.

    You may find your work allows you the time off if you wish to go to both. But if not, I doubt anyone is going to take issue with it.

  • 6 years ago

    Your plans are perfectly acceptable. Do not second guess yourself. No one will judge you. Death brings people together and I highly doubt your character will be harmed of you just attend the Saturday events.

    I am sorry for your loss.

  • 6 years ago

    Ask your ex, since you have a good relationship if that would be appropriate. A text is OK in this case since she is grieving and may be busy with the arrangement details.

  • 6 years ago

    just tell them you have to work

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