Q: Can a person be buried on private property in Oregon?

A: The state law is silent on this issue, which means it is not illegal. There are, however, county ordinances that define how and whether final disposition is permitted on private property.

Q: What if my relative died while traveling abroad?

A: Repatriation of the deceased’s remains may take some time and could be expensive. If you can work with the local consulate, this may save you money. Otherwise, contact the U.S. State Department’s Overseas Citizens Services or call (888) 407-4747

Q: What are veterans entitled to?

A: Burial in a National Cemetery, a government headstone or marker, a burial flag, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate.

Q: Can a full body really be buried at sea?

A: Yes, but it’s expensive and requires permits and authorization, and must be reported to the E.P.A.

Q: What if I suspect foul play in the death of a relative? Can I request an autopsy?

A: Yes, but if the authorities do not require an autopsy, then the family will have to pay for it.

Q: As a child and executor, am I personally responsible for paying my parent’s credit card debt.

A: No, unless you were a co-signer on the credit card agreement. Debts are paid from the deceased’s solely-owned assets.

About Us

As consumer advocates, Farewell Assistants hope to help individuals plan ceremonies, or plan ahead, therefore expanding their choices so they can spend their money wisely. For example, by calling Farewell Assistance, a person who is environmentally conscious could have a service that reflects their dedication to preserving nature. By avoiding embalming, selecting a biodegradable casket and choosing to be buried in a green cemetery, a service would reflect that individual’s values in life and in death. The differences between Farewell Assistance and funeral homes are:

• Farewell Assistance charges a fee for their services and does not sell products, nor is a commission made for products/arrangements they make for clients.
• Farewell Assistance is not a licensed funeral provider and cannot provide embalming services.
• Farewell Assistance does not have the overhead of a facility, so can offer greater selection of options with budget flexibility.
• Farewell Assistance offers temporary personal assistant services before, during and after the death in administrative, financial, legal and tax concerns.
• Farewell Assistance helps refer clients to professionals who can provide legal, emotional, financial, tax and business services related to their needs.

By providing consulting and administrative services for families who live at a distance, do not have the time, or cannot take care of the myriad of details that result from a person’s death, Farewell Assistance is an invaluable service. From feeding pets and finding them homes to coordinating the maintenance, repairs, appraisals and sales of property, from making sure an elderly widow has someone to mow the lawn her husband used to tend to hiring a company to do an estate sale, having one business oversee the details and keep everything organized, efficient and running smoothly can save time, money and prevent emotional stress for families and individuals.

Farewell Assistance was created to help people through one of the most difficult and heartbreaking times in their lives. By educating consumers of their choices, and seeing them through the immediate and long-term processes of finalizing an individual’s affairs, Farewell Assistance intends to provide strength and direction during a time of loss. After all, death is a part of life.

Many tender memories soften your grief,
May fond recollection bring you relief,
And may you find comfort and peace in the thought
Of the joy that knowing your loved one brought...
For time and space can never divide
Or keep your loved one from your side
When memory paints in colors true
The happy hours that belonged to you.

~ Helen Steiner Rice