Mike Wendland (Detroit Free Press):
Now there is online grieving and virtual visitation for deceased loved ones.And an AP article today reports on one firm in this field:Across metro Detroit and the nation, funeral homes are building tribute Web sites and putting up online guest books to share memories and honor the dead.
It's a growing trend. And despite some industry concerns over privacy, some homes are using live webcams in the visitation room and streaming video of funeral services...
The company captures funerals with a digital camera and broadcasts them live for seven funeral homes in South Dakota.Its clients include funeral director Daryl Isburg, of Hot Springs, who heard about Chapelview during a conference and decided to give it a try.
Isburg said families often ask for a tape of the service to send to loved ones who couldn't be there. Relatives and friends who want to watch it online will be given a password.
Not everyone is sold on the idea.
"So will it come to: 'Hey, Mom's funeral got 40,000 hits?"' asked Tim Wingen, managing partner of Miller Funeral Home in Sioux Falls.
