"My Burial Wishes"

Jewish Sacred Society

Chevra Kadisha of Chicago

The following letter is designed to be printed and completed.

Copies of this form should be given to family members, Rabbi and attorney.

My Burial Wishes

This letter concern matters of extreme importance to me. I trust that you will honor my last and most fervently held wishes and desires.

Although I admit that I have lived my life not always in complete accordance with Jewish laws, customs and traditions, I strongly desire to leave this world fully in accordance with the practices of our eternal people. In the haste and grief that accompanies the passing of a loved one, often irreparable harm is done to the soul and body of the deceased. Therefore, I plead of you to treat my last rites with compassion in accordance with my sincere wishes.

This is what I want:

	Kosher wood casket.
	No autopsy, no cremation, no embalming.
	To be buried underground, not in a mausoleum.
	No viewing of my remains after death.
	The Tahara (purification) and Tachrichim (shrouds) to be taken care of by the Jewish Sacred Society. Please call them immediately upon learning of my demise at 773-743-0074 (men's division) or 773-761-4743 (women's division).
	Shmira (watchman) to be provided for at the Funeral Parlor.
	To my immediate family members, please observe the customary Jewish mourning practices (Kriah, Shiva, Kaddish, and so forth). If you have any questions, please contact the Jewish Sacred Society.

For adherence to my wishes, may the Creator grant you health and happiness, and the satisfaction of knowing that you have complied fully with my instructions.

Signed ____________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________

Phone number ______________________________________

Date _______________________________