The Art of Death: Preparing the Way for Those Left Behind

Since death comes to us all -- "like a thief in the night" -- and we know not when, having a plan for those who will pick up the pieces after we are gone is one of the kindest things you can leave behind for your loved ones.

This five-part workshop takes place on the first Saturday mornings of 2025 -- you can attend all five or only those that fit your schedule:

Saturdays, January 4, 11, 18, 25 and February 1 from 10am to noon.

The workshop covers practical information, provides a chance to ask questions, as well as an opportunity to start your own "death binder."

• January 4: "The Stuff" -- what to do with the "stuff" you leave behind including information about decluttering, downsizing, moving -- the practicalities and emotional side of getting rid of things. Presented by Rachel Corwin
• January 11: "The Numbers" -- starting a binder where you can collect all the information that those you leave behind will need, such as names and contact information of the professionals that you deal with, passwords and logins for your digital assets and banking information, plus the personal information you want to document such as family tree, dates of birth, deaths and anniversaries. Presented by Tina Polf, CPA
• January 18: "The Law" -- the legal issues you should consider before you die and what happens to your assets after you die, including titling assets, living trusts, powers-of-attorney, how to choose an executor, what to put in your will, how to choose beneficiaries of retirement plans, annuities, life insurance policies, and who is subject to Washington state estate taxes, may also include special needs trusts and Medicaid planning. Presented by Ceth D. Hickey and Hickman Menashe P.S.
• January 25: "The Body" -- How you should prepare before you die with respect to how you want to be treated including the health care power of attorney, advanced directives, physician's orders for life sustaining treatment. The forms you need will be available to review and fill out. Also discussed is what you want to happen to your body after death, including burial, cremation and ashes, donating body to science and more. Presented by Sarah Roskam, M.D. and MaryJo Briggs, R.N.
• February 1: "The Service" -- Discussion of celebration of life, funeral or memorial service, including when and where to schedule, who participates, what music you'd like, and who you would like to speak. 

MORE INFORMATION:

When: Saturdays January 4, 11, 18, 25 and Feb 1 from 10am-noon

Where: The events take place at St Dunstan's Episcopal Church, 722 N 145th, Shoreline. 

Cost: The cost is $25 for a materials fee. 

Contact Information: For more information, contact Tina Polf at classes@sdchp.org