From the moment we first contacted Inclusive Funeral Care, they treated our family with an extraordinary level of compassion, professionalism, and humanity during one of the most difficult times of our lives. A few days before my grandfather passed, I reached out to prepare for what we knew was coming. They spoke with me patiently, explained everything clearly, and never once made me feel pressured or overwhelmed. The night before his passing, and again the morning of, I kept them updated as his condition changed. When I finally called to let them know he had passed, they arrived at our home within approximately 45 minutes -- even before hospice arrived to officially pronounce him. Their staff handled my grandfather with such dignity and gentleness that it brought an incredible sense of peace to an otherwise heartbreaking moment. They were calm, respectful, organized, and compassionate not only toward him, but toward our entire family. I especially want to recognize Russ, who was our primary point of contact throughout this process. He truly went above and beyond for our family in every possible way. During an incredibly emotional and stressful time, Russ was patient, responsive, compassionate, and genuinely caring. He took the time to answer questions, explain options honestly, and help us navigate difficult decisions without ever making us feel pressured. His kindness and professionalism made a lasting impact on our family, and I genuinely do not know how we would have managed this process without his guidance and support. What stood out most was their honesty and willingness to truly work with us financially. Instead of upselling unnecessary services, they actively helped us cut costs wherever possible while still ensuring my grandfather was cared for respectfully. They guided us through applying for Social Security funeral assistance, explained every expense transparently, and even arranged a manageable payment plan when funds were tight. In a time where grief can make families vulnerable, Inclusive Funeral Care treated us with integrity, empathy, and kindness. They made an overwhelming process feel manageable and humane, and I will never forget the care they showed our family during such a painful chapter. I am deeply grateful for everything they did for my grandfather and for us. read more

My daughters lost their mother and I lost my soul mate very suddenly 8 weeks ago. We were devastated and didn't really know where to turn. One of my daughter's friends has lost her mother and recommended Inclusive Funeral Care. We we sat down with Russ Henrichsen to arrange transport from Glenbrook Hospital for eco-friendly water cremation. He asked if there was particular music my deceased wife enjoyed, to which I replied, the Bonnie Raitt & John Prine version of "Angel from Montgomery." The fact that they asked this question led me to believe that we had chosen wisely. We then had Brooke Benjamin serve as Memorial Celebrant for a Celebration of the Life of Kitty at Chicago Botanic Garden. She met with the family in one extensive 2-hour session that included the daughters, myself, the deceased's brother and sister, asking us questions about our beloved's childhood, family life, hobbies, education, political activism, etc. Even though Brooke had never met my wife, she really extracted her essence.... so much so that 10 people (of the 150 in attendance) asked me "Who was Kitty's friend who ran the ceremony?" Short of resurrecting the dead, the celebration simply could not have been better. Kitty is now in our niche in Graceland Cemetery. Brooke was also very accommodating in allowing us to design our own memorial cards--we fell behind a bit in planning the cards, but things came together at the last minute. If you are looking for funeral directors who present you with a set of options in understandable, plain-English, then Inclusive Funeral Care is for you. Brooke and Russ are really excellent people. They were never heavy handed, allowing us to choose the format of the program. When they offered suggestions we choose not to follow (e.g. having live musicians), there was never any sign of disappointment. I just can not find the words to express how grateful I am to Russ and Brooke at Inclusive Funeral Care. read more

If I could give more than 5 stars, this would truly be the only place I would do it for. I lost my best friend in an accident; he was originally from Mexico, and his family lives there. So I had to take charge of the funeral arrangements, which is an experience I wouldn't wish on anyone. Russ helped and guided me through this very difficult process for me and his family. From the moment I spoke with Russ, he made me feel like I wasn't just another customer, but that he understood my pain and loss. Regarding expenses, he was always communicative and presented options that fit our budget. He was also key in helping me obtain the necessary documents to transport the ashes to Mexico. I recommend this place to anyone who wants a kind, professional, empathetic, and caring person to handle the final farewell to their loved ones. (Russ, I'm sorry I ate almost all your chocolates!) Thank you so much for all your help. read more

I don't want to think about death, but the fact is that we will all die eventually. Sadly, so much surrounding death is unknown and scary, yet having a caring and empathetic person to help you with a loved one's passing will help get you through this. Inclusive Funeral Care helped us plan for a family member's impending death, arranged for military honors and the burial at a National Cemetery (Veteran). We could ask any question of Brooke, and she provided us with options. If you have never had to arrange services for a loved one before, and don't know where to begin, I would suggest that you start here, with Inclusive Funeral Care. read more

The Doctor and I stopped in here one night to see an art installation by one of our lovely bartenders from The Hopleaf. Jack is a friend of Russ and Russ graciously allowed Jack to show his latest creations. What struck me about the place and Russ was how warm and inviting he and the place were. The overall ambience is elegant and calm. I remember laughingly telling Russ I could see myself coming down on a Friday night with a bottle of bubbles to just hang out with him and chat. While we were there for drinks to support an artist, I couldn't stop thinking about how this would such a calming environment to have to deal with the loss of a loved one. Russ was very lovely to talk to in general and trust me when I say that I never thought I would say that about someone in the funeral business. I mean I have dealt with professional folks who were good at their jobs, but Russ was just nice to talk to. I could see where his demeanor would be a tremendous benefit in helping those dealing with the loss of a love one through the process. We actually discussed what Inclusive had to offer in the services of pre-planning of events as well as living will, etc. Again, not the conversation one would expect over drinks on a night out, but Russ made it seem like it was norm. I hope to not have to use his services for a long, long time. But that said, after spending an evening talking to Russ, I walked away with a sense that he has that level of emotional intelligence to truly connect with his clients. read more

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Leaving a review for something this important seems strange. There aren't many events in life as profound, and as disorienting, as losing a parent. I am so thankful I trusted my father's final chapter to Brooke and Russ. They were on top of every detail, and it was so reassuring to have them guide things so calmly and steadily. Above all, they felt genuine. That can't be faked, or put on as a professional mask. I hope I don't need their services again, but I know I'll call on them again if I have to. read more

Brooke and Russ came through again after losing my dog. They were a great help after losing my husband in November. read more

Inclusive Funeral Care - Jim - Cremation Services Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I cannot speak highly enough about Brooke from Inclusive Funeral Care. My senior cat passed away after a short but brave battle with an aggressive cancer. I have only dealt with an in-home euthanasia service before, who handled the cremation, so I was at a loss when my kitty passed away on her own terms. I googled "pet cremation" and found another company specializing in that service but the reviews were not great. I called Inclusive Funeral Care to enquire whether they did pet cremations, which they confirmed and then Brooke jumped into action. Brooke called me back promptly to talk me through what I needed to do with my cat to prepare for her pickup, the cremation options, and next steps. When Brooke came to my house to collect she was so compassionate and caring that I knew we were in the right hands. The cremation and return of ashes was quicker than I anticipated and this helped my grieving process. When I called into Inclusive Funeral Care's office to collect the ashes a few days later, Brooke's impeccable service continued to shine and she was patient, professional, caring, and empathetic. Having pets is a blessing but the hardest aspect is that we outlive them. Should you find yourself needing a pet cremation service, look no further than Inclusive Funeral Care. read more

For anyone looking for funeral services of any type, Inclusive Funeral Care is your place. Initially, I went to a corporate funeral home to pre-arrange my grandmother's services around the time she entered hospice. The entire experience felt as if I was being sold a cheap used car. Nothing but gimmicks and tricks taking advantage of you at your most vulnerable time. Enter Russ Henrichsen and Inclusive Funeral Care. As an Andersonville resident, I had seen his storefront but didn't realize what it was. After my experience with the corporate funeral home, I decided to submit an inquiry on his website. He called me back with in an hour (around 9 on a Saturday). From his first words I felt relieved and cared for; he was a blessing from the jump. He spoke of my grandmother by name, referred to her final care in the most deferential, kind way and immediately I knew that she would be in the best care with Russ. I made an appointment and met with him soon after. During our meeting, my impressions of him were confirmed. Russ was kind, gentle, and a consummate professional. He listened to my needs and wants and mapped out my options for me without me feeling pressured or feeling that I need to pay for something I didn't need or want. Going forward we communicated by text, which was incredibly helpful, and he was always available to answer questions and to gently provide suggestions for things I hadn't considered. When my grandmother passed, Russ and his team stepped up in a big way. They cared for her and prepared a beautiful private family viewing and facilitated cremation. Her funeral a few days later was exquisite and I fully give Russ the credit for that. Cost is always a consideration with final arrangements and can be quite a shock. Russ was fair, completely transparent, and ultimately the costs were almost half of what they would have been at a corporate funeral home. Sometimes when things are actually affordable we worry that they are going to be 'cheap' or a 'you get what you pay for' kind of thing. Not with Russ and Inclusive, the value is incredible and the concierge service and attention to detail you receive is second to none. If you are in the unfortunate position of needed funeral services, please use Inclusive Funeral Care. You are in the best hands and your loved one will be treated with the utmost care and respect. To Russ and his staff, thank you. We could not have gotten through it without you. From the family of Elvira DeBorde. read more

Brooke Benjamin was there in so many ways when my father passed. When I needed to apply for a death certificate adjustment to reflect my father's birth name and DOB for an overseas case, Russ Henrichsen came to the rescue. BONUS-- Brooke spoke to my Sociology of Work class at Loyola University. Russ and Brooke are salt of the earth and I would trust no one else. read more

Thank you, Russ for the time and guidance informing me of the different options available with a great deal of support during this hard and difficult task. I'm very grateful to have trusted your service and found that the Parting Stones was a great choice for me. Thank you again, for your professional services during our difficult time. I appreciate your kind and thoughtful support. I look forward to your continued trusted guidance. read more

Brooke and Russ are compassionate, experienced, and down to earth in the way you want when you're at your most vulnerable. I know literally dozens of people who have worked with Brooke, specifically, and they talk about her like she's family (not that Russ isn't wonderful, I just haven't known him as long). Their work environment is comfortable and beautiful and doesn't reek of lilies (I can't stand them) and other typical things associated with funerals. I refer everyone to them, especially folks who are part of the LGBTQ+ community because I know they will be treated with the utmost respect and not have to feel awkward explaining relationships and lifestyles. I personally can't stand corporate funeral homes and I can't imagine a better alternative than this place and these two seasoned but sensitive humans. read more

If you want to be personally taken care of in your moment of greatest vulnerability without sacrificing any quality of service, look to Brooke and Russ. I can't disclose all the details of what they did for me, but suffice to say that they went far, far beyond anything I could have expected when I most needed someone's help. I feel very fortunate to have found them. They were with me every step of the way, guiding me through the entire process. It's not just all business; Brooke even officiated at our memorial service and shared beautiful, poignant thoughts on the nature of existence, and really helped us feel that we were giving our loved one a fitting tribute. If you want two people who are among the best at what they do, and you want to be treated like the sensitive, deserving human that you are, I cannot recommend Inclusive Funeral Care highly enough. read more

I reached out to Russ for help in preparing for my father's passing. We completed all of the paperwork ahead of time so that when needed, a simple phone call to Russ would set the wheels in motion. I didn't realize that only two days later, I would have to make the phone call. Working with Russ couldn't have gone any better; he is compassionate and empathetic while making a difficult process as easy as possible for the family. He thoroughly explained the process and offered different options for cremation, which was the our approach instead of a burial. Did you know you can even have the ashes made into garden stones?? Russ's costs are competitive and the overall service is excellent. I felt Russ handled my needs as if my dad was part of Russ's family. I highly recommend Russ and Inclusive for when end-of-life arrangements are required. read more

We are from California, and I lost my brother who lived in Chicago. We had no idea where to even start and we flew out not even knowing where to find him, or where we even were for that matter. I made the phone call to Inclusive Funeral Care and initially spoke to Brooke who assisted me with compassion and assertion, making me feel confident in my decision to choose them for the care of my brother and the needs of my family. She answered any and all of my questions and concerns with confidence which made me feel secure in an unfamiliar environment. While doing that, she showed intent and empathy as well as concern for our well being. She offered assistance with anything else we needed during our stay, such as care for my brother's dog, transportation and help with any future services. After speaking with Brooke, who happened to be out of town that day, I was passed along to Russ. Russ was another huge help to our family. He was extremely gentle, yet efficient. He answered every question I had with confidence, and assured me my brother would be available for us to see before our flight back to California. He had him ready in less than 24 hours not even sure the mortuary was available for viewing, he made it happen. While we were there saying our goodbyes he answered any questions I had, and assured me he would give me any and all information as it became available. Brooke and Russ never once tried to push us to do anything that would have possibly put more money in their pocket even though we were desperately trying to get this over with openly trusting their recommendations. I couldn't be more grateful to have come across inclusive funeral care and highly recommend them for the care of a loved one. In the hardest time of my life, they brought me peace. Thank you so much Brooke and Russ. I will never forget you. read more

When my mother entered hospice, I was given a list of companies that did cremation services. Thankfully, Inclusive was the first one I called...and the last. After 5 minutes speaking to Brooke - I knew I'd found my person to handle this difficult time. Brooke understood, within a very short conversation, exactly what I needed when it came to support. There are sooooo many options when it comes to cremation and services, but as a busy mom with three kids including a newborn - I needed someone to quickly understand what I was after and share limited options versus the whole list. When my mother passed a few days later, Brooke and Russ were helpful and compassionate - and they were incredibly accommodating with the newborn making house calls to discuss plans and to deliver the beautiful urn Brooke helped me choose. She even helped me write an obituary which I was dreading doing myself. Would 100% recommend them. read more

When death shattered our lives forever, Brooke came through for us. She answered every call and every question immediately, often anticipating our needs. She is transparent about costs and scrupulously accountable. She suggested beautiful ways to bring honor and beauty to the process. I wrote down many of the comforting and wise things she said as we worked through final arrangements. I am grateful for her kindness and professionalism. read more

Brooke Benjamin is the kindest person to work with in this capacity of losing a loved one. Her level of compassion and care about you, the family, and the decease can not be taught; it's natural. Brooke was my person back in 2017 from beginning to end and beyond when I had the unfortunate duty to find a final resting place for my parents. There was no hesitation on my part to call on he again this past December for her uniques and personable services. I am not surprised she branched out on her own, but very proud of her that she did because this is her calling. No one does it better or with such personal care than Brooke. I can never thank you enough for being you through my toughest time. inclusive Funeral Care is in a league of their own with Brooke on lead. It was my pleasure to meet Russ also. Go Team! read more

You will not find a more understanding, decent, or respectful experience during the incredibly difficult time you are facing, than the service provided by Inclusive Funeral Care. These professionals understand that not all families are the same so they tailor their exquisite services to your unique needs. Ours was a particularly tumultuous ordeal, but you would never know it with the way Brooke, et al. took care of everyone. Inclusive Funeral Care understands that people grieve and mourn in their own ways and they give you all of the options you may need with a trauma-informed, client-centered approach. read more

Our memorial service was perfect, and we couldn't have done it without Brooke Benjamin and Inclusive Funeral Care. We were working from 200 miles away from the deceased and coordinating with his spouse, and Brooke made every detail happen with ease. People who attended the memorial told us what a great job we did, but we couldn't have done it without Brooke. In addition to her planning skills, she delivered a tremendous oratory at the service. We knew we could count on Brooke because we had worked with her before during the difficult time of the 2020 pandemic. Thank you Brooke and Russ! read more

Both of my parents passed away recently in MN and IN. Although I could not make full of use of Inclusive's services, it was great to know I had access to their notary public services. As executor of both estates, living in a different state, I was overwhelmed with the amount of paperwork. Russ always responded right away when another necessary piece of the puzzle had to be notarized. I was relieved my documents were being handled by someone who understood the process and truly sympathized. read more

Planning the final arrangements for a parent at this stage in my life, like many, is something that you're never truly prepared for. I had a ton of questions, anxiety, and emotions that were settled by connecting with Russ at Inclusive Funeral Care. From the initial consultation, he made it clear that I didn't need to adhere to any set expectations or traditional measures when celebrating the life of my father. I was provided many options (even those outside of his office), clear information, and flexible financing plans with transparency. I would encourage anyone starting this process to find someone in the business who cares. Russ does... and I'm thankful for that. read more