Sad Family News

[felinefan]

Sorry for your loss, DisneyMom. Be sure you check his insurance, if he had a will, etc.., because he might've left something for the kids, and they're going to need it. Even though you split up, don't be afraid to cry in front of the kids. Even though my parents had been divorced longer than they were married, my dad came to mom's funeral. I don't recall seeing Dad cry, but he might've had a few tears in his eyes. And he had his wife--a very nice lady he married shortly after the divorce was final--there, too.

[Rosie]

DisneyMom, I am sorry to hear your news. A death is always difficult irregardless of the family circumstances. You have suffered a loss too. I don't know your kids ages, but if they are under 18 they should be eligible for survivor benefits. I know it sounds cold to suggest this now but some things need to be acted on early. When my husband died (my girls were 3 and 9) the social security reps were very helpful and gave us a lot of information and suggestions to help with the grieving process.

Rosie

[hobie16]

Depending on who you talk to at SS, they'll either be very helpful or snooze through the meeting. It doesn't seem like there is any in between. If the kids are eligible it may take applying three times before they'll accept them.

I know all this from personal experience with our son.

[techie-13]

I'm sorry for your loss.

[turkeyham]

DM,
I am sorry to hear about your loss. Did your ex live on Catalina? My aunt was cremated and her ashes are with the family. I hope everything goes better.

Suzanne

[DisneyMom]

Thanks all again :)
Have contacted Social Security, as it turns out only disabled son is eligible for any benefit, so we have a phone meeting set up September 9th. Will contact VA but do not think there is any benefit for kids. One thing that will be nice is that we are anticipating being able to inter ashes at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery at Point Loma, San Diego. It is a truly beautiful
place overlooking the Pacific.
Not sure if I'll go to Funeral, but will make sure kids can go.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Thanks all again :)
Have contacted Social Security, as it turns out only disabled son is eligible for any benefit, so we have a phone meeting set up September 9th. Will contact VA but do not think there is any benefit for kids. One thing that will be nice is that we are anticipating being able to inter ashes at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery at Point Loma, San Diego. It is a truly beautiful
place overlooking the Pacific.
Not sure if I'll go to Funeral, but will make sure kids can go.

did he want that?

The military (any branch) is also eligable to have their ashes scattered at sea.

just an FYI.

[DisneyMom]

did he want that?

The military (any branch) is also eligable to have their ashes scattered at sea.

just an FYI.

Not sure what he would want, but his sister has some pretty strong ideas on what his side of the family would want. This is probably just as well, as my kids aren't able to emotionally deal with all of this stuff. His small amount of assets (an old boat) will be sold to probably just cover any expenses. At any rate, funerals are for the living, if it makes everyone feel better, and kids do not have to pay other than giving up an old boat, that is fine.

[GaTechGal]

DisneyMom, my condolences to you and your kids. It's tough to lose a parent, even one that is absent. Pixie dust all around.

[hobie16]

Have contacted Social Security, as it turns out only disabled son is eligible for any benefit, so we have a phone meeting set up September 9th.

Based on past experience they may try to refuse benefits. If you run into trouble PM me and I'll set you up with my wife who can steer you through the federal mine fields.