700B Eugene Street, Merrill, WI 54452
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The funeral home is praised for being clean, organized, and staffed by nice, hardworking people. Leah and her team are described as great, with Leah being genuinely nice and making the process less stressful for families. Rick is highlighted for thoughtfulness, experience, attention to detail, and straightforward communication that helps families focus on their priorities. The staff, including Rick and Leah, are noted as very professional and proactive in meeting and anticipating the family's needs. Taylor-Stine is highly recommended by those who used their services.
They allege the funeral home hounded their father into cashing out their aunt's life insurance to fund a funeral trust. They claim this was framed as necessary to avoid state intervention, which they say was a lie. They state their aunt was not on state assistance and had sufficient funds to pay funeral costs. They believe the father, unaware of life insurance basics, was misled into cashing out and lost a significant amount of the policy's value. They argue it is not the funeral home's job to tell clients to cash out life insurance. They describe the pallbearer director as drill-sergeant-like, bossy, rude, and lacking emotional intelligence. They criticize the pallbearers for not allowing family members to give last respects and for not being suited to working with grieving families. They note the family is extremely upset and angry about what happened.Taylor-Stine presents itself as a clean, organized funeral home staffed by pleasant and capable people, and many families leave feeling that they were treated with care. One reviewer gave the experience an unequivocal 5/5, emphasizing the facility's cleanliness and the sense that the team works well together. The impression of professionalism and warmth is a common thread in several remarks, with praise directed at Leah, Rick, and the overall staff for their handling of the process during a difficult time.
Yet no profile is complete without noting that not all experiences were uniformly positive. A particularly troubling account centers on the advice given regarding life insurance and funding for a funeral. In this case, a family member alleges that a funeral home staff member pressured the father to cash out a life insurance policy on an aunt who had not yet passed away, with the money supposedly being placed into a funeral trust. The claim is that the staff member told the father that if he did not cash out, the state would force him to do so anyway. The reviewer stresses that the aunt was not on state assistance and had sufficient funds of her own, and that the father, who did not understand how life insurance works, believed the information and proceeded. The cash value was handed over to the funeral home before the aunt's death, and the reviewer believes this resulted in a substantial loss of what would have been owed to the father as beneficiary. According to the reviewer, it is not the funeral home's job to instruct clients to cash out life insurance, and the family feels misled, left to navigate a financial mistake they did not anticipate.
In the same recount, the emotional and financial stakes are underscored by the impact on trust within the family. The reviewer states that the aunt was not in any way relying on state assistance, and the fear created by the advice led the father to act under the impression that he was protecting the family from a worse outcome. The sense of anger and betrayal is palpable, with the family expressing that this early cash-out arrangement caused them to forfeit a significant amount of money that would have belonged to the beneficiary upon the aunt's passing. The takeaway for this portion of the experience is a cautionary note: financial guidance that accompanies funeral planning should be carefully reviewed, and families may want to seek independent financial counsel to avoid transactional pressures that can have long-lasting consequences.
Amid these concerns, other reviews highlight exceptionally positive personal interactions with specific members of the Taylor-Stine team. Leah, in particular, is described as a genuinely nice person who contributed to making the process less stressful for the family. The reviewer who praises Leah stresses her kindness and the relief she provided during a challenging period, suggesting that her approach helped to tamp down the emotional strain and guided the family through the necessary steps with clear communication and support. The overall sentiment is that Leah's demeanor and professionalism make a meaningful difference in the grieving process, even if there are other elements of the experience that warrant scrutiny.
There is also a noted contrast in interpersonal dynamics with a pallbearer director described as having a drill-sergeant-type personality. This part of the experience is marked by strong, almost confrontational phrasing: the director is labeled bossy and rude, with zero emotional intelligence. The reviewer questions why pallbearers were not allowed to express their respects with family and notes that they were positioned at the back as a result. The request is for someone else to work with grieving families, suggesting that this particular interaction did not align with the reviewer's expectations of compassion and support. Despite this negative impression of one staff member, the rest of the arrangements are acknowledged as satisfactory, indicating that one strained interaction did not completely color the overall service.
On the other hand, several reviewers highlight the capabilities and reliability of Rick as a standout point of contact. Working with Rick is described as a positive and supportive experience, characterized by thoughtfulness, experience, attention to detail, and straightforward communication. This combination allowed the family to focus on their priorities and take the initial steps needed to move forward during their time of loss. The clarity and reliability attributed to Rick helped alleviate some of the stress inherent in funeral planning, reinforcing the sense that competent, proactive guidance can be a crucial factor in navigating a difficult period.
The overarching impression from multiple perspectives is a blend of strong professional service and deeply personal care, tempered by a significant concern about financial guidance given to a client in distress. The team's dedication is evident in the praise directed at Leah and Rick, whose professionalism and proactive approach are repeatedly cited as helping families feel prepared and supported as they confront loss. At the same time, the troubling account regarding the life insurance cash-out underscores a need for vigilance and verification of any financial recommendations presented during funeral planning. Taken together, the experiences paint a portrait of a funeral home that can deliver compassionate, capable service when worked with trusted staff, while also illustrating how critical it is for families to safeguard themselves against potentially misleading financial guidance during an emotionally vulnerable time.
4 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.The Ken Crass Memorial Home in Merrill, WI is a premier assisted living community that provides exceptional care and support for seniors. With a wide range of amenities and care services, residents can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
The community features a spacious dining room where residents can gather and enjoy delicious meals prepared by the staff. Each apartment is fully furnished, creating a cozy atmosphere for residents to call home. The beautiful garden provides opportunities for outdoor relaxation and socialization.
Housekeeping services are offered to ensure that the living environment remains clean and well-maintained. Additionally, move-in coordination is available to assist new residents in smoothly transitioning into their new homes.
Residents have access to telephone service as well as Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, allowing them to stay connected with loved ones and engage in online activities at their convenience.
The dedicated care team at Ken Crass Memorial Home provides assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that residents receive appropriate medical attention. Specialized care, such as diabetes diets and medication management, are provided based on individual needs. Meal preparation and service are offered along with consideration for special dietary restrictions.
Transportation arrangements are made for medical appointments, ensuring that residents can easily access necessary healthcare services. Scheduled daily activities keep residents engaged and entertained within the community.
The location of Ken Crass Memorial Home offers convenience with several parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, and hospitals nearby.
Overall, the Ken Crass Memorial Home provides a nurturing environment where seniors can thrive while receiving personalized care and enjoying a variety of amenities and services.
Ken Crass Memorial Home is located at 700B Eugene Street, Merrill, WI 54452 in Marathon County, Wisconsin
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