Author Topic: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?  (Read 7147 times)

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Millicent63

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Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« on: December 20, 2006, 05:27:39 PM »
Hello,
I'm in the process of writing thank-you notes to those who attended my mom's funeral last week and/or sent flowers, memorial contributions etc.

We also received a number of greeting cards from co-workers, neighbors and so forth;   is it good form to respond to those with a written thank-you or just express appreciation the next time we see them in person.

Thanks for any advice,
M

Lisbeth

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #1 on: December 20, 2006, 05:29:15 PM »
I'm very sorry for your loss.

Thank-you notes aren't required for cards, but it's certainly acceptable to acknowledge them if you wish.

You certainly should send thank-you notes to people who paid you personal visits or did other special things for you to help you get through this time.
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kingsrings

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #2 on: December 20, 2006, 05:31:23 PM »
If someone sent you a sympathy card, it is good manners and courtesy to write them a short thank-you note for their condolences to you. It also confirms that they received your card.

sammycat

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #3 on: December 20, 2006, 05:36:56 PM »
Firstly, my condolences on the passing of your mother.

I never expect a thank you for a condolence card, or even flowers, but that is just me personally and others may feel differently.  For some reason though I do actually seem to receive thank you notes for condolence cards more so than thank yous for wedding/birthday/baby gifts. Maybe it helps with the grieving process. However, if someone has done something extra like help organise the funeral, running of the household, supply meals etc then it would be nice to send a thank you note when you are ready.

ETA: I like writing thank you notes for everything and I would send a thank you after a bereavement but don't get upset if someone doesn't send one to me in that situation. 
« Last Edit: December 20, 2006, 06:01:13 PM by sammycat »

ZipTheWonder

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #4 on: December 20, 2006, 05:53:59 PM »
Condolences on your loss.

I have only done this twice, but in both cases (grandmother, father-in-law), I felt like it was appropriate to express appreciation for letters, cards, and other kindnesses or acknowledgements -- including attending the funeral or visiting the mortuary.  I would say that, if you are feeling up to doing it, do so.  Perhaps other family members would be willing to assist, as well. 

Millicent63

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #5 on: December 20, 2006, 07:41:06 PM »
thank you all for the condolences and advice.  It's been a grim year.   i got all the "musts" done and will likely go ahead and send a note to those who sent greeting cards as well...at least the out-of-towners.  The workmates I may just thank in person. 

Clara Bow

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #6 on: December 21, 2006, 12:51:18 AM »
Please let me extend to you my condolences...and a big hug...
I think that your solution sounds perfect.
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Nekolove

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Re: Thank-you notes for condolence cards?
« Reply #7 on: December 21, 2006, 04:35:55 PM »
I am so, so sorry for your loss.

I agree that your plan is a good one. I also would not expect a thank you for a sympathy card, but think it's a wonderful gesture to send one. And, I think it's perfectly acceptable to thank your co-workers and other people you see on a regular basis in person.