Colonial-Wojciechowski Funeral Home

When Unilocal started the 100 for 2013 list challenge I thought if I ever got to 100, I’d want that review to be a important one. I certainly didn’t figure on it being a funeral home, nor did I ever think I’d review a funeral home if it was for a family member, I tend to be private when it comes to things like this, but they far exceeded my expectations that they deserve it.
Firstly, they have two locations, we worked with both and originally were going to have the wake/​service at the Chicago location but we changed it to Niles due to the layout. Both locations work together and the staff was outstanding.
Being informed that mom had less than a year we knew that planning ahead of time instead of right before would allow us to think more clearly, so based on a previous positive experience with Colonial we headed off to talk to them. Our initial meeting at the Chicago location was informative, kind, and without pressure. We also visited and inquired at a couple of other places and were treated well, and pricing was similar, however Colonial’s facilities were far superior, the interior of the building being recently renovated, the common kitchen area, lobby and restroom all clean, bright, cheerful and comforting. The parking lot was recently seal-​coated and stripped and impeccable landscaping and flower pots flanked the entrance.
After putting things down in writing, we needed to sleep on it and compare information. CW was clearly the choice and I went on to set up a time to drop off a check and sign paperwork. This was my first time to visit the Niles location, in addition to the standards of of their Chicago chapel they showed me around and pointed out that I can have our event there if it is more convenient, they also showed me one room that had French doors to it’s own kitchen and tables for guests towards the back attached. This set up appealed to me as I was concerned about people needing to take the stairs at the other location. It was going to be a tough choice since both on all other counts are equally nice. I did ask if I needed to decide right away, as I wanted to discuss it with my sister to see how she felt about it. They told me no worries, when the time came we could review what was available.
Unfortunately, the time to decide came much sooner than we anticipated and we appreciated having this done in advance. Everything was put into motion easily with one phone call. They initially transported her to the Chicago location, but after my sister and I discussed it we decided the Niles location would work better and if it would be to much trouble for them to switch it. Again, CW was caring and polite, it was no problem at all.
Karen, was a lifeline with planning details. A brief recap of what was decided on before, the flowers, mass cards, etc., you’ll need the clothing to us by this time and pictures for the memorial disk by that time. Not to mention all the other details for the cemetery and making those arrangements. We first met with Allan, then I met with Brad to handle final paperwork. Everyone was simply wonderful.
Everything was beautiful, the flowers that we ordered were perfect, the ladies that assisted were friendly and attentive. They whisked into the kitchen periodically and picked up plates, cups, etc., checked if we had enough coffee made and ice for the ice bucket (which we supplied) their kitchen is stocked with stuff but they can use one of these. There is also a full size refrigerator if you need one. At the end of the night they helped us clean up and pack up.
This isn’t the first time I’ve dealt with funeral arrangements, however it’s always been in a supportive role, not active planning or responsibility. Sooner or later, hopefully later everyone will have to make arrangements, Allan, Brad and special mention to Karen made it as painless as possible.