I had a customer that was a funeral director, and when he would vacation and would be asked the question " what do you do for a living " his answer was "I run a little body shop in Michigan"
Hi Kari, You mentooned tattos. We once had a retiree who had a tatoo on his inner thigh. The tattoo was a straight, dotted line across his femoral artery. The words beneath it said, "Cut here." He was a funeral director and embalmer.
Your gentle descriptions are very appreciated. My Mom passed away on 10/31/20, and she was very adamant about what she wanted. After she was embalmed, she looked "fuller" somehow, and it was calming somehow to my family to see her less frail. I'm a nurse, so we'd had lots of discussions about things, but the family didn't know what to expect. I knew, but when I took a private moment before her funeral, she looked so natural and wonderful! My biggest fear was that she'd look like she did just after she'd passed: sunken, frail, pale...she was beautiful. Thank you for what you do. You make it easier to transition from here to not here.
Why would you lose both parents within a week and not cry? It is an Irish thing. Brian Killmeade of Fox News explained it this way; every morning as he is about to leave for work he shakes his wife's hand goodbye.
Hi Kari, You are lovely, caring and genuine. I understand the problem that your profession might have caused some when dating, but your attributes override all of that. I'm commenting to say that I'm impressed with the phrase you use for the process when you say "taking care" of the deceased. Taking care........... because you have compassion and also work ethic. All of it, from transport to embalming, dressing, preparation for viewing, etc, is "taking care." That is actually a very tender approach. My father recently passed away at age 82 so I came to view these videos to fill in some of the blanks on some questions I had. It has been a pleasure to "meet" you. Your efforts are appreciated.
I had always known that morticians are some of the most caring and kindhearted souls out there, just like nurses. Therefore, those who turn away from relationships just because their partner is a "mortician" has got to be severely misinformed by popular entertainment and stereotypical nonsense... I would not hesitate to date a woman who is a mortician. As a matter of fact, I think they would be far more mature and understanding of life's realities than a majority of the other folks out there. I do not consider people's professions and careers a problem in relationships. I consider shitty phone etiquette a major problem. For example, our modern smartphones ensure that we do NOT miss any calls or texts because everything is logged and displayed to us. I always do my best to answer every call and text that I receive. I have never missed one communication in all the time I have been using a smartphone, and I expect the same from others. Therefore, if someone who I am seeing misses a text or does not reply to one, I take offense to it. Do it once and have a valid explanation, I might give you a second chance. Keep doing it, and I will simply leave you and cease all communications permanently with absolutely no warning. I have done that in the past and I have no qualms about doing it again if I have to...
I want my dog's ashes mixed with mine when I go. I'm putting it in writing & keeping copies with my will and other estate documents. And I don't care how weird that is, she was my baby.
I think I've got to talk to funeral director about it because my kids say no way are they doing that. So far I have 6 urns, and currently have 4 living wiggle butts, expecting a few more if I get to live longer.
@@yorkiem0m You have to put it in writing and attach to your will and find someone else to handle your burial and carry out your wishes, like an attorney.
I watched this all the way through. You are an absolutely amazing person. This sounds completely insane, but I wish I could die and be taken care of by you!!! Lol. Seriously, I sense, through all of your stories, that you have such a deep and abiding respect for each one of your clients, and that you approach each one as utterly unique. You have that heightened spiritual understanding that must be so indispensable to your profession. I just have the most respect for you. Xxoo.
I commend you for your work. You have a very compassionate heart. Blessings to you. Thank you for being there for us during our moment of deepest sorrow.
I've stumbled over your channel and I am very impressed with your comments and feelings. I'm just thankful for people who can do your job and have compassion like you. Thanks
I’ve worked in healthcare a long time, Long term care. I understand where you’re coming from with taking yourself out of the equation and being there for the family. You truly are an amazing person and truly are in your calling. I’m new to your channel, where are you from? I hear Midwest/Chicago as that’s where I lived for a long time. You truly have a gift for answering these questions with class! I wanted to add, I put powdered sugar raspberry filled donuts in my grandpa’s casket, because we ate them while out salmon fishing, grandma never let him have sugar (he wasn’t diabetic) thank you for making these videos, it has put my mind at ease. 🙏💜
I told my wife to do nothing crazy when I die. My body is just a shell. Do whatever is cheapest. Losing a loved one is hard enough, why have a huge funeral bill to worry about? You have a tough job and I am glad you share it with us. Great video!
Hi Kari, enjoying your videos. I buried 10 pair of baby shoes tied together with my oldest brother; representing his siblings. My mom wanted the shoes kept together ranging from 1932 to 1956. Now as the youngest sibling of the 6 yet surviving, I bury a picture of the 10 of us with them.
We buried our grandmother in a wedding dress because she did not have that type of dress when she married. She looked beautiful and it left us with a happy memory.
I buried my grandma in a pair of leopard print thongs. No one knows but me (and the funeral director) and to this day it makes me giggle to think about.
OMG !! That nut on the phone would have made me pee !! He was crazy !! I wonder what ever happened ?? You are awesome! Kari, you make the whole funeral experience so much more real and not so Scarry . Thank You!!
I just want to say “ MANY THANKS TO YOU” for taking so long of your time to answer so many questions that I and so many other must have had about each of these subjects!! 🤔🙏🏻 I have lost a son in a car accident at 33 years ol age and my second son at age 56 to depression because of a divorce and 2 daughter that totally isolated themselves from him!!! Now they are having a terrible time dealing with decisions!! I had begged both to talk with their dad!!
I'm a newbie, but I can tell this is gonna be one of my fav channels. I've always had so many questions about what happens after we pass, but I don't know anyone personally that has this much info...thanks!
I am intrigued and in awe listening to you describe your feelings and emotions when you have embalmed your family members. It's an honor to you to do that last caring act for them. You are truly a caring person. You are a sweet person with a good heart ❤
Kari northey has great videos, she has helped me understand the importance of dying a lot more,she cares for the living and the dying even more,she makes sure she tells her clients the up front costs and all costs ,she tells the truth, there should be more like her.
Thank you for sharing. I was in the industry for two years. I gave it up because I could not deal with the drama from families. They would be mad at me for the death. I was there to comfort and be empathic. Seeing wakes after wakes got me sick and depressed. I had to throw the towel and walk. Again thank you for sharing
I agree wholeheartedly! They're not disposing of a body, they're supposed to be caring for a deceased person's remains, which is a direct reflection of that person's life on Earth. It's supposed to be all about sensitivity, care & trust.... Too many funeral businesses and the people who that person left behind, forget or neglect this important point! Thankfully, that's not you, you're truly a shining example and a huge credit to your industry! Dare I say, you're the very best I've ever come across in the industry! Much love to you & yours, you're truly an angel! 👼 😊
Kari Northey It's certainly my pleasure Kari, dare I say, you are more tender and caring than even my therapist is! I'm just proud to have shared a part of the Earth with a person like you! 💕 I hope that you have children, the world certainly needs more terrific people like you! I'd guarantee that you're a great mother & if you're not a mom, you'd be a superb one without a doubt! I just finish a crying spell when you said about the selfish teenage moment that poor girl and the parents had with the funeral folder, my heart certainly goes out to both that girl as well as the poor parents of the deceased boy, what a heartbreaking moment to hear of that... For all of the parties concerned! 💕
Kath Linke why do all the funeral workers think they can do hair? No Liciense needed on dead clientele. Thank god I could do my moms I colored it and all. You can do what you want with the hair.
This video was a good idea. You got scads of personal stuff out of the way. Good job. Q. Why is it so difficult to get information out of a cemetery worker? A. All they will say is, "We will fill you in later."
I have to say, my older brother may have chosen to take his own life, but he also knows what he's done to us as the family. Because it has just torn us up. I was the last one to talk with my brother& my twin brother found him dead in the canyon. THE SUICIDE CLUB IS ONE OF THOSE CLUBS THAT YOU NEVER WANT TO BE A PART OF.
Oh, my goodness, you had just been talking about ghosts, and a few minutes later your tripod toppled. I about had a great attack!😂. I LOVE your videos. You describe things so gently but to the point.
Kari, 1st let me just say, you are my hero. Why? Some 39 years ago I was earmarked to enter into your industry. I chose military service instead. Fast forward to 1999. Again,( in 1980 and 1999) I was tested and marked for the same industry. My (now ex) wife proclaimed "divorce" if you enter this. She divorced me anyway. So I finished a USAF career instead. So, Kari, I've viewed your clips in and am in admiration of you for what you have endured Having said that, I've done over 100 Military burials , as a flag folder. My job was routine and simple yours was not. I sure do regret not going into the industry though. Thank you for what you endure and are teaching me through the videos. TSG Gary P Marquis. USAF RET.
I’m currently in school to be a mortician, and I’d love to see how you cope with the busy schedule while being a mother. Making time for your babies. I’d also like to say, that there’s so many points you make that I myself feel the exact same way!
Julianne Reineman , absolutely loving school. I went to school for nursing, and dreaded it. I loved the science but disliked so many aspects of the business. Mortuary science, is so easy for me, because it’s so interesting. If you have a heart for people, and also love science, Common wealth institute has an amazing program!
Hi Kari, I'm not sure if you read comments that are posted on your older videos but I had to comment how crazy it was that you talked about teenagers going to funerals for classmates that they were not close to. This hits so close to home for me. My husband and I dated all through high school and a month after they graduated his best friend was in a car accident and died. When we went to his funeral there were so many kids there that did not give him the time of day when he was alive. It really upset my husband and all of their friends seeing those people who didn't care about him when he was alive treat it as some kind of social scene. Of course we didn't have social media then (1995) but I never understood why they felt the need to be there. Thank you for all your videos, I have been binge watching them the last few days and I really love them.
22:54 is when the tripod falls. Be aware. Don't jump like alot of commenters did including myself. I saw other ppl warn about it, but wasn't sure when it would happen. It still got me. Hope the timestamp helps.
You are in the right profession, bless you for the respect you give the dead. We have been using the same funeral in NY for 3 generation. You remind me of them, they do a woderful job. Respectful and have never made us feel like they where takeing advantage of our grief.
Kari, I really appreciate your honesty in answering the questions people ask you. What is your relationship with God? You seem like a very caring person.
Well I think you can be called a teacher because of what you have taught us. I have learned so much from you and the other ladies, little miss funeral, the grave woman and Kaitlyn. I wish I had known the things you have talked about before my dad died. Good for you and thanks.
Kari, I would think when it comes to your Loved ones ... Friends or Family that you may really want to be that person to ready the person...the details that you want perfect for that person, you would be the one to make sure everything is exactly like that soul would have wanted it or to look a certain way. I am glad I found your platform because this really interest me...I am strange that way. Just a me thing. Thank you for explaining this process in such detail.
I can add something to why a spouse may be cold about their spouse dying. A friend of mine was married to a woman who was a horrible wife. She cheated on him more times than I can count. She would stay gone weeks at a time leaving him with their small children until she decided to come home. Towards the end it was only his strict beliefs in marriage that kept him from divorcing her. She broke him financially and spiritually. By the end he felt nothing for her. She got killed in a car accident. A guy she was out cheating with ran off the road after a night out drinking and killed both of them. He made her funeral arrangements according to her family’s wishes. He paid for it and kept up appearances for his kids. I spoke with him at the visitation and he said that she finally did something good for him and his kids. Sometimes people have wronged someone so much that they are unable to feel any grief or even compassion for the deceased. His life as well as his kids are much better now without her.
You seem like a loving and caring woman!! It has to be hard to separate your feelings when it comes to dealing with the dead. I think it's neat however how you love your job and have a fascination with your field of work. I may have posted this before but my great niece and her five year old little boy was murdered here in Kalamazoo by the father of the child and he also killed himself. I was sooo scared to walk into the funeral home knowing I would see a mom and her child lying in a casket. I have to say I never saw anything so heartbreaking but beautiful. Whoever took care of them did an awesome job. They both looked so natural. My great niece was beautiful and her baby was so adorable. I never saw anything so touching. It was done at your place of work and I don't know know if you had a hand in it but I want to thank whomever took care of them very much. Such an awesome job. Kari, you make death a little easier to comprehend and you explain it so well. I love some of your stories. Please keep them coming!!! ❤
I have an old Hippie from the 60s aunt, who asked me when she goes she wants a vibrator and a pile of batteries put in. Now don’t think bad of her, she is like me and approaches every aspect of life with a warped sense of humor, even death. So that was her thing for me to do to lighten things up!
"Capitive Crawlers" & unballanced people calling on the phone??? You deserve a huge increase in pay young lady, no doubt about it! These are but a few reasons why I'd be unable to handle the profession! I've got nothing but the deepest respect for you going through all that & still working in the industry! 💕 Whew, I can see I'd have nightmares about those things!
I am a retired nurse and have had plenty of experience with colostomies, both taking care of them and also teaching patients how to care for them. I am curious how you handle a colostomy when caring for a person? Do you just cover the stoma with dressings or do you have to push the intestine back in and suture the outer skin closed?
My father was an identical twin and was fairly young (I was 17 and he was 49) and I took alot criticism for asking him to walk me down the aisle at my wedding but it wasn't because he looked like my father it was because I loved him very much and he was there for me for many different situations after my father died. There were many times when they were young that they played jokes on people and it was funny but after my father died most people were uncomfortable around my uncle and I think it it was very sad for him. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us you are very committed and compassionate to help us all deal with death and its ramifications Bless you
Thank you for this video. A wonderful array!!....You had a very interesting insight on identical twins. I read once, whether true or not, that identical twins share part of the same soul. I would like to think that this must be true and would account for the weird and strange feelings when the other twin walked into the room. (my take anyway) ... and yes, I have seen a few casket climbers as well! God bless!
Thank you for doing this video ...I have lost 3 of my children and my sister and my mother and father..our funeral home that we go to have so much kindness and love for families...and you sound the same way..
I used to work for a plumbing supply company. We had a husband and wife come to buy PVC Pipe and fittings for body parts that were missing or removed.. that was a very interesting couple.
The hate or rude comments probably stems from not really understanding or know anything about the business. They don’t know the correct words to say it appropriately.
Kari...I just love listening to you speak of your stories and knowledge. You seem to be so kind and compassionate...you are obviously in the right business. I would definitely recommend your funeral home if I lived near you 😉 You are a class act...bless you🙏😁
I had a bad experience when my father passed away. My dad was laying on a metal table covered with nothing more than a sheet and I’m telling the owner no worries that he will get his money while he had a jacked up hummer parked out front. Then the guy who was showing me caskets was acting like he was emotional while I asked him questions. You could tell he was full of it
this is good relatable content that i can relate to, i was critical of some of your content but i hope you see what i am saying, some details should not be shared, but...........i relate to all you said in this video
Just think of that colostomy bag as the result of a life saving operation . It was a major adjustment for them, however it was part of what extended their lives. People that wear them are not gross. They are just people that have a useful medical device.
Love your videos. Please keep them coming. I always felt being a funeral director was my calling and I still feel that way however life took me other paths but I admire what you do.
Kari, I too am a Christian who has seen a ghost, as well as experienced other paranormal things, I also have a hard time reconciling my Christian beliefs and the paranormal.
I do not mean to offend you in any way, but the "ghost" that you saw, and the other things, all have modern scientific and medical explanations. Spirits and religions are creations of ancient human minds that could not use logic to describe the phenomena of the natural world. Today, we live in an age when we are about to set forth and explore and colonize the stars. Such things do not belong in our age anymore. Believing in fantasies such as the supernatural is harmful to the continued scientific progress of the human race.
@Kai Wong: Neither of these things exist. The world is made up of electromagnetic, chemical, gravitational, and nuclear forces. Everything has an explanation within the field of science. There have been NO scientific evidence whatsover regarding the existence of ghosts, gods, or other supernatural beings, despite extensive research being done on them. NONE...
I'm binge watching your videos and again I say your voice is very soothing Kari. I appreciate that maybe because my brothers death anniversary is near and I'm having a hard time. Thursday the 20th will mark 2 years since his murder. He was a mistaken identity victim he was a great man with a family that loved him. He was with his best friend when it happened so I have a little comfort I'm mean a (tiny spec) just knowing he wasn't alone.😞
@@KaritheMortician I saw my big brother in a casket Kari, I could see where they had tried to join his skull and I could see the post mortem stitching, I puked, our dead should be treated with the greatest respect. I send you love, you have a good heart.
Have you ever met a doppelganger to the deceased recently after the burial? I remember going to a funeral some years ago & talking to the funeral director the next day at the grocery store & along comes a guy who looked just like Ed dressed the same as he did @ the funeral. He walked right past us, stopped & turned & smirked at us like as saying " yeah its me" then walked away. We both stood there & looked at each other in disbelief still think it's Ed & somehow he dug himself out & came back from the dead.
I'm kinda sad the teenage thing is common. When I graduated high school, one of my classmates passed away from cancer, which she had been dealing with for a few years. I didn't attend her service; I had known her all of my school life, and we were in interconnected groups of friends but I didn't feel like I had a right to be there, because we weren't friends. However, people who flat out bullied her all through school, attended. That made me really mad. The only thing I guess, I hope, was they regretted their actions and grew into better people after that, but somehow I doubt it. It was so unbelievable.
You are a funeral director I would find comfort in knowing you cared for my family member. Especially, God forbid, my child or spouse. I would imagine a lot of people who come into contact with you in that way, feel the same. I also love old people. Soon I want to start volunteering at a senior home just visiting with elderly people. I am not well enough to work, and my children are all in school now, so maybe I can make a difference there.
Kari, my identical twin sister (Dorene) was stillborn. When my parents planned her burial, my maternal grandmother had her mother's plot opened; there was just enough space at the feet of my great-grandmother's casket for my twin's casket. Since I no longer live in the state where they are buried, I never had the opportunity to put a small marker with Dorene's name on it. Not sure how I can afford it.
What do you tell families who want to view a loved one who had a violent death that disfigured them? How do you handle families who are adamant about seeing an un-viewable body?
I agree on the number of people who show up. The younger the deceased the higher the number in attendance at funerals. My family was from a town of 2,000. We had been gone for three years when my brother died in a roll over AA. Over 1,000 attended his funeral.....however this was 34 years ago so social media was non existent. My mother used to say “death puts wings on people don’t cha know” so even enemies attend! 11 years ago my niece from the same community died at the age of 21 in an AA roll over. I believe 1,200 attended her services.....800 at the burial.....many from the university she attended. Maybe social Media related.
I love listening to you talk. Every time i think about dying i will listen you tell one of your stories. I wish you could help me pan mine,-. IT's simple....no memorial service`, no burial vault, no celebrating afterwards. just a fried coming to get my urn.
I guess I could see your point. Mine was an ileosotomy so it was more liquid without a huge smell. Colostomy bags set for the more firm output I could see maybe being a little different. I had my drawbacks on them before I had one attached to me. My other half totally had a different change of mind as well. He helped me whenever mine would "pop." I'm thinking fluids of decomposition would be more of an issue, just me or even a burned patient/victim. My mom was a former nurse. She tried to get me into her field of work but I walked out on a cadaver stick. She had Gallbladder Cancer and unfortunately she had a bili bag attached to her (drain on the gb). I learned on the ostomy bags to bag those up and quick. I appreciate everything you do as it truly takes skill, having a huge heart and just a strong stomach in general. My mother had alot of fluids in her and we worked together as a team to make her presentable. I was able to do her makeup and nails along with hair but it's so much work and not easy. Especially whenever there's fluid, bruising and tubing. With stomas, does it help with the process or make it more cumbersome? I'm thinking irrigation should be pretty easy. Again, thank you for helping others. ...More rewarding to see you've helped the family that I'm sure you don't get the due respect. I thought it was comical that you try not to tell others what you do while out and about. I totally understand. Questions about work doesn't give you downtime. I dealt with that after I chose to go into corrections.
@@KaritheMortician Yes, the stoma can look rather "interesting" to say the least. Mine went from a huge bubble look to a small port that was like a small mouth. I can see that being a little disturbing. I was thinking that it was the output in that area. Broken bones I believe make us think of our bones protruding, etc. I was unnerved once over a compound fracture. I cannot imagine any worse in a way you've witnessed. Thank you for explaining about the aspiration on the stoma site. I felt like that could be an easy way but just didn't know. Intriguing how things work whether natural or surgical in that way. All in all, my stoma took about a week before I could get comfortable on my abdominal area then I just dealt with it. I will say I was very excited for my takedown surgery. Strangely enough, the stoma seemed cleaner in the way of output. The learning curve was not ideal on an open wound to start. That was my eek factor (granular healing was uncool 😝). Thank you again for all that you do and answering my questions. 😊
I thank you. Your videos really answer many questions that we commonly are timid to ask. I'm sure you like the living stories as well, especially on an individual like myself when you see them. 😊 Stay blessed and I hope you have a beautiful Christmas! 😊😇
@@KaritheMortician I must also say that the questions or inquisitive part in us draws us to ask questions. You give people like myself a professional view, not anything that makes us fear death. Your calmness helps as well. 😊
I had a customer that was a funeral director, and when he would vacation and would be asked the question " what do you do for a living " his answer was "I run a little body shop in Michigan"
LOL!
Did you say 3 times you were scared. I only heard 2.
Gary Kerkstra 😂😂😂😂
Wendy Gabbert no one ☝🏽 said anything about that.
🤣
Hi Kari,
You mentooned tattos. We once had a retiree who had a tatoo on his inner thigh. The tattoo was a straight, dotted line across his femoral artery. The words beneath it said, "Cut here." He was a funeral director and embalmer.
Your gentle descriptions are very appreciated. My Mom passed away on 10/31/20, and she was very adamant about what she wanted. After she was embalmed, she looked "fuller" somehow, and it was calming somehow to my family to see her less frail. I'm a nurse, so we'd had lots of discussions about things, but the family didn't know what to expect. I knew, but when I took a private moment before her funeral, she looked so natural and wonderful! My biggest fear was that she'd look like she did just after she'd passed: sunken, frail, pale...she was beautiful. Thank you for what you do. You make it easier to transition from here to not here.
You are one of the most interesting lady’s that I have ever listened to. Total respect to you for sharing such experiences. Thank you.
Why would you lose both parents within a week and not cry? It is an Irish thing. Brian Killmeade of Fox News explained it this way; every morning as he is about to leave for work he shakes his wife's hand goodbye.
Hi Kari, You are lovely, caring and genuine. I understand the problem that your profession might have caused some when dating, but your attributes override all of that. I'm commenting to say that I'm impressed with the phrase you use for the process when you say "taking care" of the deceased. Taking care........... because you have compassion and also work ethic. All of it, from transport to embalming, dressing, preparation for viewing, etc, is "taking care." That is actually a very tender approach. My father recently passed away at age 82 so I came to view these videos to fill in some of the blanks on some questions I had. It has been a pleasure to "meet" you. Your efforts are appreciated.
Yes! "Taking care of"! That phrase jumped out at me as well. It's an act of love.
I had always known that morticians are some of the most caring and kindhearted souls out there, just like nurses. Therefore, those who turn away from relationships just because their partner is a "mortician" has got to be severely misinformed by popular entertainment and stereotypical nonsense... I would not hesitate to date a woman who is a mortician. As a matter of fact, I think they would be far more mature and understanding of life's realities than a majority of the other folks out there. I do not consider people's professions and careers a problem in relationships. I consider shitty phone etiquette a major problem. For example, our modern smartphones ensure that we do NOT miss any calls or texts because everything is logged and displayed to us. I always do my best to answer every call and text that I receive. I have never missed one communication in all the time I have been using a smartphone, and I expect the same from others. Therefore, if someone who I am seeing misses a text or does not reply to one, I take offense to it. Do it once and have a valid explanation, I might give you a second chance. Keep doing it, and I will simply leave you and cease all communications permanently with absolutely no warning. I have done that in the past and I have no qualms about doing it again if I have to...
I'm sitting in the dark, totally intrigued by the stories, and the tripod broke, camera fell, and I almost had a heart attack! 😳
😂😂
Same!!! Omg 😆 That was so scary!!
I screamed for some reason because I was so engrossed in what she was saying! :D
I'm with ya! Funeral homes and bodies I'm ok.
Break the tri pod I'm in need of a funeral director
Just watching it now..April 2023 and this happened to me too! 😂
Ok when your tripod broke I jumped out of my skin 😂
I did too! 😨
Theresa Williams - omg I just almost hit the floor. I think I had a slight heart attack!!!!😱
that was super funny I jumped too lol
Lol, I’m glad I wasn’t the only one. 🤣
when i lean forward some girls tell me look like a tripod
I want my dog's ashes mixed with mine when I go. I'm putting it in writing & keeping copies with my will and other estate documents. And I don't care how weird that is, she was my baby.
Very nice thing to do!
I feel the same way!
That's what I want too. I don't think it's weird at all.🙂
I think I've got to talk to funeral director about it because my kids say no way are they doing that. So far I have 6 urns, and currently have 4 living wiggle butts, expecting a few more if I get to live longer.
@@yorkiem0m You have to put it in writing and attach to your will and find someone else to handle your burial and carry out your wishes, like an attorney.
I watched this all the way through. You are an absolutely amazing person. This sounds completely insane, but I wish I could die and be taken care of by you!!! Lol. Seriously, I sense, through all of your stories, that you have such a deep and abiding respect for each one of your clients, and that you approach each one as utterly unique. You have that heightened spiritual understanding that must be so indispensable to your profession. I just have the most respect for you. Xxoo.
I commend you for your work. You have a very compassionate heart. Blessings to you. Thank you for being there for us during our moment of deepest sorrow.
I've stumbled over your channel and I am very impressed with your comments and feelings. I'm just thankful for people who can do your job and have compassion like you. Thanks
I’ve worked in healthcare a long time, Long term care. I understand where you’re coming from with taking yourself out of the equation and being there for the family. You truly are an amazing person and truly are in your calling. I’m new to your channel, where are you from? I hear Midwest/Chicago as that’s where I lived for a long time. You truly have a gift for answering these questions with class! I wanted to add, I put powdered sugar raspberry filled donuts in my grandpa’s casket, because we ate them while out salmon fishing, grandma never let him have sugar (he wasn’t diabetic) thank you for making these videos, it has put my mind at ease. 🙏💜
Thankyou for this video. Even being in the industry, your perspective has helped me.
Glad it was helpful!
I told my wife to do nothing crazy when I die. My body is just a shell. Do whatever is cheapest. Losing a loved one is hard enough, why have a huge funeral bill to worry about? You have a tough job and I am glad you share it with us. Great video!
Hi Kari, enjoying your videos. I buried 10 pair of baby shoes tied together with my oldest brother; representing his siblings. My mom wanted the shoes kept together ranging from 1932 to 1956. Now as the youngest sibling of the 6 yet surviving, I bury a picture of the 10 of us with them.
We buried our grandmother in a wedding dress because she did not have that type of dress when she married. She looked beautiful and it left us with a happy memory.
You are such an exceptional person, Kari. You have a heart of gold. ❤
I know a person in the industry and he told me that it wasn't the dead that creeped him out but it was the living that creeps him out.
I buried my grandma in a pair of leopard print thongs. No one knows but me (and the funeral director) and to this day it makes me giggle to think about.
😂😂 was it her wish?
Lol! I love this so much!😂
Melissa Kennedy my Grandma always made me laugh. What a precious last “secret laugh” between you and your Grandma. Thank you for sharing ❤️❤️.
🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪
A little weird to be thinking of your grandma in a thong tbh
OMG !! That nut on the phone would have made me pee !! He was crazy !! I wonder what ever happened ?? You are awesome! Kari, you make the whole funeral experience so much more real and not so Scarry . Thank You!!
I just want to say “ MANY THANKS TO YOU” for taking so long of your time to answer so many questions that I and so many other must have had about each of these subjects!! 🤔🙏🏻
I have lost a son in a car accident at 33 years ol age and my second son at age 56 to depression because of a divorce and 2 daughter that totally isolated themselves from him!!! Now they are having a terrible time dealing with decisions!!
I had begged both to talk with their dad!!
You are very welcome!! So sorry for the heartbreak you have had!
I'm a newbie, but I can tell this is gonna be one of my fav channels. I've always had so many questions about what happens after we pass, but I don't know anyone personally that has this much info...thanks!
I’m in bed, in the dark watching this video. Then your tripod broke and I about jumped out of my skin! 😂
Your profession takes a special type of person. It is truly a calling. Thank you and those that work in the funeral home profession.
I am intrigued and in awe listening to you describe your feelings and emotions when you have embalmed your family members. It's an honor to you to do that last caring act for them. You are truly a caring person. You are a sweet person with a good heart ❤
It's so interesting hearing your stories. The part about identical twins...I've never even thought about that!
Jeffery Hopcus 🤔
Kari northey has great videos, she has helped me understand the importance of dying a lot more,she cares for the living and the dying even more,she makes sure she tells her clients the up front costs and all costs ,she tells the truth, there should be more like her.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND YOUR SINCERE LOVEING HEART HUGS CIAO
Im 65 so really im looking at what will come
Thanks so much!
Thank you for sharing. I was in the industry for two years. I gave it up because I could not deal with the drama from families. They would be mad at me for the death. I was there to comfort and be empathic. Seeing wakes after wakes got me sick and depressed. I had to throw the towel and walk. Again thank you for sharing
Thank you for sharing
I agree wholeheartedly! They're not disposing of a body, they're supposed to be caring for a deceased person's remains, which is a direct reflection of that person's life on Earth. It's supposed to be all about sensitivity, care & trust.... Too many funeral businesses and the people who that person left behind, forget or neglect this important point! Thankfully, that's not you, you're truly a shining example and a huge credit to your industry! Dare I say, you're the very best I've ever come across in the industry! Much love to you & yours, you're truly an angel! 👼 😊
Kari Northey It's certainly my pleasure Kari, dare I say, you are more tender and caring than even my therapist is! I'm just proud to have shared a part of the Earth with a person like you! 💕 I hope that you have children, the world certainly needs more terrific people like you! I'd guarantee that you're a great mother & if you're not a mom, you'd be a superb one without a doubt! I just finish a crying spell when you said about the selfish teenage moment that poor girl and the parents had with the funeral folder, my heart certainly goes out to both that girl as well as the poor parents of the deceased boy, what a heartbreaking moment to hear of that... For all of the parties concerned! 💕
I just about peed in my pants when the camera fell. Don’t watch this video at 2am, alone in the dark....
Me too 😂😂
I forgot about that part lol so very sorry!!
I think of we didn't watch it so late at night in the dark it would have been fine 😂😂
Kath Linke why do all the funeral workers think they can do hair? No Liciense needed on dead clientele. Thank god I could do my moms I colored it and all. You can do what you want with the hair.
Go to kath linke miss written there was meant for director!
This video was a good idea. You got scads of personal stuff out of the way. Good job.
Q. Why is it so difficult to get information out of a cemetery worker?
A. All they will say is, "We will fill you in later."
🤣
So interesting! Again, love how you always teach us something. Thank you!
I have to say, my older brother may have chosen to take his own life, but he also knows what he's done to us as the family. Because it has just torn us up. I was the last one to talk with my brother& my twin brother found him dead in the canyon. THE SUICIDE CLUB IS ONE OF THOSE CLUBS THAT YOU NEVER WANT TO BE A PART OF.
Oh, my goodness, you had just been talking about ghosts, and a few minutes later your tripod toppled. I about had a great attack!😂.
I LOVE your videos. You describe things so gently but to the point.
Kari, 1st let me just say, you are my hero. Why? Some 39 years ago I was earmarked to enter into your industry. I chose military service instead. Fast forward to 1999. Again,( in 1980 and 1999) I was tested and marked for the same industry. My (now ex) wife proclaimed "divorce" if you enter this. She divorced me anyway. So I finished a USAF career instead. So, Kari, I've viewed your clips in and am in admiration of you for what you have endured Having said that, I've done over 100 Military burials , as a flag folder. My job was routine and simple yours was not. I sure do regret not going into the industry though. Thank you for what you endure and are teaching me through the videos. TSG Gary P Marquis. USAF RET.
I’m currently in school to be a mortician, and I’d love to see how you cope with the busy schedule while being a mother. Making time for your babies.
I’d also like to say, that there’s so many points you make that I myself feel the exact same way!
I just posted a video talking about this about two weeks ago :)
Kari Northey , thank you so much! I will go back to look!
How is school going ? I'm very interested in this line of work and would like to get into soon
Julianne Reineman , absolutely loving school. I went to school for nursing, and dreaded it. I loved the science but disliked so many aspects of the business. Mortuary science, is so easy for me, because it’s so interesting. If you have a heart for people, and also love science, Common wealth institute has an amazing program!
Hi Kari,
I'm not sure if you read comments that are posted on your older videos but I had to comment how crazy it was that you talked about teenagers going to funerals for classmates that they were not close to. This hits so close to home for me. My husband and I dated all through high school and a month after they graduated his best friend was in a car accident and died. When we went to his funeral there were so many kids there that did not give him the time of day when he was alive. It really upset my husband and all of their friends seeing those people who didn't care about him when he was alive treat it as some kind of social scene. Of course we didn't have social media then (1995) but I never understood why they felt the need to be there.
Thank you for all your videos, I have been binge watching them the last few days and I really love them.
I’m sending invitations to my funeral (as long as I don’t die suddenly)
22:54 is when the tripod falls. Be aware. Don't jump like alot of commenters did including myself. I saw other ppl warn about it, but wasn't sure when it would happen. It still got me. Hope the timestamp helps.
lol
You are in the right profession, bless you for the respect you give the dead. We have been
using the same funeral in NY for 3 generation. You remind me of them, they do a woderful job. Respectful and have never made us feel like they where takeing advantage of our grief.
When my Father died, a friend who I had known earlier told me he went and picked him up. That was comforting to me. Little things count.
You're such a good decent person. God bless you.
Thank you!
Kari, I really appreciate your honesty in answering the questions people ask you. What is your relationship with God? You seem like a very caring person.
I am a Christian
It is an honorable carrier the word Undertaker has a real meaning it was given to the person who would Undertake the job of handling the departed
Thanks
Well I think you can be called a teacher because of what you have taught us. I have learned so much from you and the other ladies, little miss funeral, the grave woman and Kaitlyn. I wish I had known the things you have talked about before my dad died. Good for you and thanks.
Thank you so much!
Thank you for the way you are!!! You are in the right job!!!!!!!!!
Kari, I would think when it comes to your Loved ones ... Friends or Family that you may really want to be that person to ready the person...the details that you want perfect for that person, you would be the one to make sure everything is exactly like that soul would have wanted it or to look a certain way. I am glad I found your platform because this really interest me...I am strange that way. Just a me thing. Thank you for explaining this process in such detail.
I love listening to you talk!!
I wish I lived where you are, it would be so comforting to have you! God forbid I don't need to for a long time
Your energy is so lovely and real❤ I enjoy learning from your experience ! Thank you
You are so welcome
I hope you are safe and well during this pandemic! Very informative. You made it all seem less gruesome than I imagined. Thank you!
You are welcome!
I can add something to why a spouse may be cold about their spouse dying. A friend of mine was married to a woman who was a horrible wife. She cheated on him more times than I can count. She would stay gone weeks at a time leaving him with their small children until she decided to come home. Towards the end it was only his strict beliefs in marriage that kept him from divorcing her. She broke him financially and spiritually. By the end he felt nothing for her. She got killed in a car accident. A guy she was out cheating with ran off the road after a night out drinking and killed both of them. He made her funeral arrangements according to her family’s wishes. He paid for it and kept up appearances for his kids. I spoke with him at the visitation and he said that she finally did something good for him and his kids. Sometimes people have wronged someone so much that they are unable to feel any grief or even compassion for the deceased. His life as well as his kids are much better now without her.
Thank you for sharing this
@@KaritheMortician
🙂
You seem like a loving and caring woman!! It has to be hard to separate your feelings when it comes to dealing with the dead. I think it's neat however how you love your job and have a fascination with your field of work. I may have posted this before but my great niece and her five year old little boy was murdered here in Kalamazoo by the father of the child and he also killed himself. I was sooo scared to walk into the funeral home knowing I would see a mom and her child lying in a casket. I have to say I never saw anything so heartbreaking but beautiful. Whoever took care of them did an awesome job. They both looked so natural. My great niece was beautiful and her baby was so adorable. I never saw anything so touching. It was done at your place of work and I don't know know if you had a hand in it but I want to thank whomever took care of them very much. Such an awesome job. Kari, you make death a little easier to comprehend and you explain it so well. I love some of your stories. Please keep them coming!!! ❤
Thank you so much!!
Thank you for your honesty. I’ve seen a couple of your videos and I think you’re a unique and precious person. God bless you.
I have an old Hippie from the 60s aunt, who asked me when she goes she wants a vibrator and a pile of batteries put in. Now don’t think bad of her, she is like me and approaches every aspect of life with a warped sense of humor, even death. So that was her thing for me to do to lighten things up!
"Capitive Crawlers" & unballanced people calling on the phone??? You deserve a huge increase in pay young lady, no doubt about it! These are but a few reasons why I'd be unable to handle the profession! I've got nothing but the deepest respect for you going through all that & still working in the industry! 💕 Whew, I can see I'd have nightmares about those things!
I am a retired nurse and have had plenty of experience with colostomies, both taking care of them and also teaching patients how to care for them. I am curious how you handle a colostomy when caring for a person? Do you just cover the stoma with dressings or do you have to push the intestine back in and suture the outer skin closed?
I'm curious also, as I have an ileostomy!!
I am curious too
there soul leaves. and the vessel ( body is left) and the body is there visual self ❤❤❤ you handle your job very well ❤
thank you!
My father was an identical twin and was fairly young (I was 17 and he was 49) and I took alot criticism for asking him to walk me down the aisle at my wedding but it wasn't because he looked like my father it was because I loved him very much and he was there for me for many different situations after my father died. There were many times when they were young that they played jokes on people and it was funny but after my father died most people were uncomfortable around my uncle and I think it it was very sad for him. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us you are very committed and compassionate to help us all deal with death and its ramifications Bless you
Kari you are so kind.
Thanks for Sharing those personal experiences. I jumped when your tripod fell.
Thank you for this video. A wonderful array!!....You had a very interesting insight on identical twins. I read once, whether true or not, that identical twins share part of the same soul. I would like to think that this must be true and would account for the weird and strange feelings when the other twin walked into the room. (my take anyway) ... and yes, I have seen a few casket climbers as well! God bless!
Good questions and answers. Thanks for your honesty.
Glad it was helpful!
I could watch your videos all day. Thank you for showing such honesty.
what a nice person
Thank you for doing this video ...I have lost 3 of my children and my sister and my mother and father..our funeral home that we go to have so much kindness and love for families...and you sound the same way..
I used to work for a plumbing supply company. We had a husband and wife come to buy PVC Pipe and fittings for body parts that were missing or removed.. that was a very interesting couple.
For organ and tissue donation most likely
The creepy guy on the phone had me in hysterics. 😂😂😂
:)
The hate or rude comments probably stems from not really understanding or know anything about the business. They don’t know the correct words to say it appropriately.
Very true
Kari Eres un Angel en la Tierra.
I really appreciate your honesty and openness regarding this topic.
Kari...I just love listening to you speak of your stories and knowledge. You seem to be so kind and compassionate...you are obviously in the right business. I would definitely recommend your funeral home if I lived near you 😉 You are a class act...bless you🙏😁
Thank you so much!
Your tripod broke! I was almost your next client!!! Lol!!!
I forget about that and laugh everytime it is so startling
I had a bad experience when my father passed away. My dad was laying on a metal table covered with nothing more than a sheet and I’m telling the owner no worries that he will get his money while he had a jacked up hummer parked out front. Then the guy who was showing me caskets was acting like he was emotional while I asked him questions. You could tell he was full of it
Thank you for your kindness. I'm retired was in medical field
You're a precious jewel!💎
Thank you for this video, the information you have giving me means a lot!! Thanks
this is good relatable content that i can relate to, i was critical of some of your content but i hope you see what i am saying, some details should not be shared, but...........i relate to all you said in this video
What types of details should not be shared?
Just think of that colostomy bag as the result of a life saving operation . It was a major adjustment for them, however it was part of what extended their lives. People that wear them are not gross. They are just people that have a useful medical device.
Love your videos. Please keep them coming. I always felt being a funeral director was my calling and I still feel that way however life took me other paths but I admire what you do.
I landed in the practice of law but I still feel I would have succeeded at being a funeral director. I admire you Kari
Kari, I too am a Christian who has seen a ghost, as well as experienced other paranormal things, I also have a hard time reconciling my Christian beliefs and the paranormal.
I do not mean to offend you in any way, but the "ghost" that you saw, and the other things, all have modern scientific and medical explanations. Spirits and religions are creations of ancient human minds that could not use logic to describe the phenomena of the natural world. Today, we live in an age when we are about to set forth and explore and colonize the stars. Such things do not belong in our age anymore. Believing in fantasies such as the supernatural is harmful to the continued scientific progress of the human race.
@Kai Wong: Neither of these things exist. The world is made up of electromagnetic, chemical, gravitational, and nuclear forces. Everything has an explanation within the field of science. There have been NO scientific evidence whatsover regarding the existence of ghosts, gods, or other supernatural beings, despite extensive research being done on them. NONE...
Great Vlog
I’m curious after watching both your presentations on cremation and embalming... which do you plan to have?
I'm binge watching your videos and again I say your voice is very soothing Kari. I appreciate that maybe because my brothers death anniversary is near and I'm having a hard time. Thursday the 20th will mark 2 years since his murder. He was a mistaken identity victim he was a great man with a family that loved him. He was with his best friend when it happened so I have a little comfort I'm mean a (tiny spec) just knowing he wasn't alone.😞
Thanks so much!
Kari, you clearly are a caring lady.
Thank you!
I have worked in funeral business about 12 years and was told that when I lose all my emotions that it was time to quit.
Tough questions but very informative and educational...
Glad it was helpful!
You are an Angel.
Thank you
@@KaritheMortician You are very welcome sweetheart.
@@KaritheMortician I saw my big brother in a casket Kari, I could see where they had tried to join his skull and I could see the post mortem stitching, I puked, our dead should be treated with the greatest respect. I send you love, you have a good heart.
Have you ever met a doppelganger to the deceased recently after the burial? I remember going to a funeral some years ago & talking to the funeral director the next day at the grocery store & along comes a guy who looked just like Ed dressed the same as he did @ the funeral. He walked right past us, stopped & turned & smirked at us like as saying " yeah its me" then walked away. We both stood there & looked at each other in disbelief still think it's Ed & somehow he dug himself out & came back from the dead.
I'm kinda sad the teenage thing is common. When I graduated high school, one of my classmates passed away from cancer, which she had been dealing with for a few years. I didn't attend her service; I had known her all of my school life, and we were in interconnected groups of friends but I didn't feel like I had a right to be there, because we weren't friends. However, people who flat out bullied her all through school, attended. That made me really mad. The only thing I guess, I hope, was they regretted their actions and grew into better people after that, but somehow I doubt it. It was so unbelievable.
You are a funeral director I would find comfort in knowing you cared for my family member. Especially, God forbid, my child or spouse. I would imagine a lot of people who come into contact with you in that way, feel the same. I also love old people. Soon I want to start volunteering at a senior home just visiting with elderly people. I am not well enough to work, and my children are all in school now, so maybe I can make a difference there.
Kari, my identical twin sister (Dorene) was stillborn. When my parents planned her burial, my maternal grandmother had her mother's plot opened; there was just enough space at the feet of my great-grandmother's casket for my twin's casket.
Since I no longer live in the state where they are buried, I never had the opportunity to put a small marker with Dorene's name on it. Not sure how I can afford it.
Kari, tfs and being so honest. XX
You are so welcome
What do you tell families who want to view a loved one who had a violent death that disfigured them? How do you handle families who are adamant about seeing an un-viewable body?
What is your go to for feeling better? Or getting through each day
It really depends on the day! Laughing with the kids will cure anything though
One of my aunts was buried with her knitting needles. She was quite the avid knitter!
Love it!!
Your job requires a strong mind set and ur a strong spirited person u have strong will to keep a good head on ur shoulder.. god bless u 👼
I agree on the number of people who show up. The younger the deceased the higher the number in attendance at funerals.
My family was from a town of 2,000. We had been gone for three years when my brother died in a roll over AA. Over 1,000 attended his funeral.....however this was 34 years ago so social media was non existent.
My mother used to say “death puts wings on people don’t cha know” so even enemies attend!
11 years ago my niece from the same community died at the age of 21 in an AA roll over. I believe 1,200 attended her services.....800 at the burial.....many from the university she attended. Maybe social Media related.
I love listening to you talk. Every time i think about dying i will listen you tell one of your stories. I wish you could help me pan mine,-. IT's simple....no memorial service`, no burial vault, no celebrating afterwards. just a fried coming to get my urn.
I live in Cincinnati Ohio
Thank you for your information in these vlogs. You have been helpful to me. Thank you.
I guess I could see your point. Mine was an ileosotomy so it was more liquid without a huge smell. Colostomy bags set for the more firm output I could see maybe being a little different. I had my drawbacks on them before I had one attached to me. My other half totally had a different change of mind as well. He helped me whenever mine would "pop." I'm thinking fluids of decomposition would be more of an issue, just me or even a burned patient/victim. My mom was a former nurse. She tried to get me into her field of work but I walked out on a cadaver stick. She had Gallbladder Cancer and unfortunately she had a bili bag attached to her (drain on the gb). I learned on the ostomy bags to bag those up and quick. I appreciate everything you do as it truly takes skill, having a huge heart and just a strong stomach in general. My mother had alot of fluids in her and we worked together as a team to make her presentable. I was able to do her makeup and nails along with hair but it's so much work and not easy. Especially whenever there's fluid, bruising and tubing.
With stomas, does it help with the process or make it more cumbersome? I'm thinking irrigation should be pretty easy.
Again, thank you for helping others. ...More rewarding to see you've helped the family that I'm sure you don't get the due respect. I thought it was comical that you try not to tell others what you do while out and about. I totally understand. Questions about work doesn't give you downtime. I dealt with that after I chose to go into corrections.
@@KaritheMortician Yes, the stoma can look rather "interesting" to say the least. Mine went from a huge bubble look to a small port that was like a small mouth. I can see that being a little disturbing. I was thinking that it was the output in that area. Broken bones I believe make us think of our bones protruding, etc. I was unnerved once over a compound fracture. I cannot imagine any worse in a way you've witnessed.
Thank you for explaining about the aspiration on the stoma site. I felt like that could be an easy way but just didn't know. Intriguing how things work whether natural or surgical in that way.
All in all, my stoma took about a week before I could get comfortable on my abdominal area then I just dealt with it. I will say I was very excited for my takedown surgery. Strangely enough, the stoma seemed cleaner in the way of output. The learning curve was not ideal on an open wound to start. That was my eek factor (granular healing was uncool 😝).
Thank you again for all that you do and answering my questions. 😊
I thank you. Your videos really answer many questions that we commonly are timid to ask. I'm sure you like the living stories as well, especially on an individual like myself when you see them. 😊 Stay blessed and I hope you have a beautiful Christmas! 😊😇
@@KaritheMortician I must also say that the questions or inquisitive part in us draws us to ask questions. You give people like myself a professional view, not anything that makes us fear death. Your calmness helps as well. 😊
I really enjoyed this video!