Cemetery criticized
Over the holidays I joined with several other area families in remembering loved ones buried at Lafayette Memorial Park in Brier Hill. As I walked to the gravesite I noticed several families had placed flowers in a hole in the headstones to remember their loved ones. I do recall hearing that a theft occurred at the cemetery where well over a hundred vases were stolen. I do believe persons were arrested, etc.
Upon talking to people at the gravesite, I learned that Lafayette had not replaced the vases, but had requested the families pay a fee of approximately $35 dollars to replace the vase that was taken.
I was shocked that these families were asked to bear the additional financial burden of replacement costs. They initially paid for the vase and it was installed according to very precise rules of the cemetery.
They also pay a price for perpetual care when purchasing burial space at the cemetery. I feel that action by the cemetery is petty and hurtful adding to the grief of the families. The cost involved is less than one gravesite at the cemetery. It is probably considered a business expense by the IRS. Not to mention the good will of the community.
It would mean much to families and a reassurance that loved ones final resting places are secure.
Mary Ann Grlovich
Brier Hill