In the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, public memorial services will be held at a later date instead of holding funerals now

The Iowa Governor's proclamation prohibiting gatherings and events of more than 10 people is affecting everyone, but it may make things especially difficult for those who lose a loved one during this time.

Fjelstul Funeral Home Director Scott Fjelstul says, "Our sympathies go out to anyone who has the additional burden of grief and loss during this time, and we are here to guide each family with their particular needs on an individual basis. We are here to help bereaved families to work with their funeral director to create meaningful services that fall within the governor's emergency order of limiting large public gatherings."

Fjelstul explains visitations and funeral services would need to be limited to just 5 or 6 people because the "no more than 10" restriction needs to account for the funeral home staff and clergy serving the family. As a result, Fjelstul says most funerals will be limited to a small private grave site service during the pandemic, and then a public memorial service at a later date.

"Given the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to know that funeral directors throughout Iowa are taking precautions to limit exposure to the coronavirus," reassures Fjelstul. "We are still operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week making certain that those entrusted to our care and the families we serve are receiving uninterrupted service and attention, regardless of the cause of death."