When a loved one departs to another realm, our hearts assure us of their well-being. However, for those of us on Earth, this shift presents a challenge. Our loved ones are now beyond our sight and touch. The physical, material aspect has ceased to exist. Their departure leaves us with numbness, dullness, grief, anger, desolation, and similar emotions.

These overpowering feelings submerge the urge for a tranquil tribute and farewell. This makes it hard for some of us to find the right words to honour the deceased’s life.

Here’s where I can assist you.

A demise brings with it many things that need organizing and sorting. This often leaves people without the opportunity to find peace and prepare a eulogy or multiple speeches.

Writing and reading the eulogy (in memoriam) is one of the key responsibilities in my role as your funeral speaker. In addition, I can offer guidance on structuring the service and recommend readings for your family and friends.

Should emotion overcome a speaker during the service, I will gently and respectfully assume the reading. 
 

My preference is to work within a 20 km radius of my Westerlo office, minimizing travel time and costs. Additional costs may apply if the service location for your loved one is outside this radius.

I am not affiliated with any religion, but I only feel at ease in settings that are familiar to me. It can mean a service held in a Catholic church or a farewell ceremony at a crematorium that is either non-religious or Christian.

‘Heart and Word’ complete service

Step 1: First, we’ll schedule an initial meeting that runs for 1.5 to 2 hours. You can have the meeting at your home, or we can connect online through WhatsApp or Telegram. We will have ample time to talk about your loved one’s life. What did they like, what did they do for fun, and do you remember any stories? I will ask these and other questions, listen attentively, and record the answers. Be aware that meeting in person will incur an additional mileage fee.

Step 2: I will compose the memorial text once our conversation is complete. I use straightforward language to paint an accurate picture of your loved one’s life, avoiding complexity. A text that resonates with all. With heart and words.
 

Step 3: We will review the text together and make any necessary changes. We can do this online via WhatsApp or Telegram. I set aside an hour for this.
 

Step 4: I will read the memorial text during the service, allowing you to fully concentrate on bidding farewell to your loved one.
 

Step 5: I will remain present for the duration of the ceremony, whether or not you opt for additional services. Should anyone become overcome with emotion during the reading, I will calmly step in.
 

Step 6: Following the service, I’ll linger briefly in case you require further as‘Heart en word’ abbreviated service

‘Heart and Word’ complete service 

This service covers only steps 1, 2, and 3 of the full service; I will not be present during the ceremony.

Additional services

• Writing a script: I can assist you with the structure and content of the funeral service script. Speeches, poems, and music are all open for discussion. You might want to light a candle or place flowers in memory of the deceased.
• Creating a booklet: I can assemble a booklet. For the booklet, it’s advisable to use the funeral director’s printing services..
• Creating a slideshow: I can also assemble a PowerPoint presentation using photos.
• A chat with your beloved: While they’re still with us, your loved one might want to talk about their funeral service preferences. It goes without saying that we can set up another meeting for this.
   

Please note: Technology and technical matters are not my strong suit. The funeral director is an excellent source of advice on these topics.

 

You can find the prices for the services below. These prices are valid from July 1, 2026, and include 20% VAT. You can find more information about the services offered in the “My step-by-step approach” section above.

1. ‘Heart and Word’ complete service:  €605
2. 'Hart and Word’ abbreviated service (steps 1, 2 and 3): €423.50
3. Creating script maken: €60.50 per hour (minimum 1 hour)
4. Creating a booklet: €60.50 per hour (minimum 2 hours)
5. Creating a PowerPoint presentation: €60.50 per hour (minimum 2 hours)
6. A conversation with your loved one prior to their demise: €60.50 per hour (minimum 1 hour)
7. Writing an obituary and/or mourning card text: €30.25 per piece
8. Travel allowance: €0.5383 per kilometre (valid from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026) within a 20 km radius of Westerlo.
   For travel beyond 20 km from Westerlo, there’s an extra charge of €27.50 for every 30 minutes of driving time, on top of the per-kilometre fee.
9. Parking fees: The ‘Heart and Word’ complete service includes €20 for parking. Any parking costs exceeding this amount will incur a charge  

Do you have questions, or would you like to arrange a meeting? Get in touch with me via the contact page!