Heitmeyer Funeral Home Ottawa Obituaries

Life, Death, and Everything in Between: A Chat with Heitmeyer Funeral Home Ottawa

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of those heartfelt obituaries you read in the Ottawa Citizen? We sat down with the folks at Heitmeyer Funeral Home Ottawa to get the scoop on their unique role in our city's life cycle.

From Life to Legacy

Heitmeyer's has been a part of Ottawa's landscape since 1928, guiding families through one of life's most challenging moments. But they're not just about funerals; they're about preserving legacies. "We're storytellers," says Maureen Heitmeyer, the fourth generation of her family to run the business. "Each obituary is a chance to share a life story, to celebrate a unique journey."

And what stories they tell! From Ottawa's first female police officer to a WWII veteran who jumped out of planes until he was 95, Heitmeyer's obituaries are mini-biographies that paint a vivid picture of our city's rich tapestry.

Obituaries: The Original Social Media

In the age of Instagram and Twitter, it's easy to forget that obituaries were once the original social media platform. "They've been around for centuries," says Maureen. "In the 17th century, they were often just a list of who had died. But by the 19th century, they started to include more details, like cause of death and family members."

Today, Heitmeyer's obituaries are a blend of tradition and modernity. They're written in the first person, as if the deceased is telling their own story. And they're not just for the recently departed; they also celebrate lives well-lived, like the 100-year-olds who've become Ottawa's newest celebrities.

Obituary Writing: A Lost Art?

With the rise of online memorials and social media tributes, some worry that the art of obituary writing is dying. But Maureen isn't concerned. "Obituaries are a way to connect with our past, to understand where we come from," she says. "As long as there are stories to tell, there will be a place for obituaries."

And Heitmeyer's is doing its part to keep the tradition alive. They offer obituary writing workshops and have even started a podcast, Obituary Stories, where they delve deeper into the lives of Ottawa's remarkable residents.

Tips for Writing Your Own Obituary

You might think it's too morbid to write your own obituary, but it's actually a great way to ensure your legacy is told the way you want. Here are some tips from Heitmeyer's:

• Be specific. Instead of "loved ones," mention your children, grandchildren, and beloved pets by name.
• Include your full name and maiden name, if applicable. It's a chance to honor your family history.
• Don't be afraid to brag a little. This is your chance to highlight your proudest accomplishments and most cherished memories.
• Consider including a quote or a favorite saying. It's a personal touch that can bring a smile to readers' faces.

Reflecting on Life, Every Day

Working with obituaries might seem like a somber job, but Maureen sees it as a constant reminder to live life to the fullest. "Every day, I'm reminded of the importance of making the most of the time we have," she says. "It's a privilege to help families celebrate a life well-lived, and it's a privilege to be reminded of that every day."

So, the next time you read an obituary, take a moment to appreciate the life story it tells. And remember, every day is a chance to write your own story, to create your own legacy. As the folks at Heitmeyer's would say, "Make it a good one."