Regardless of whether we’ve served your family in the past, we are here to answer any questions that you may have. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions for your convenience, but we welcome you to contact us at your convenience to ask any other questions you may have. We keep all inquiries in strict confidence and we will do our best to assist you by phone, e-mail or in person.
Q: Who operates Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home?
A: Goodman-Bensman is owned by a Wisconsin limited liability company made up of Jewish people, all of whom have direct ties to the Milwaukee Jewish community and the surrounding areas. Goodman-Bensman Funeral Home employs a skilled staff consisting of 1 licensed funeral director, 2 certified pre-need consultants, a licensed funeral director apprentice and other support personnel who are available 24 hours a day. Please refer to our staff page for additional information.
Q: What should we do if a death occurs?
A: Whether a death occurs here in Milwaukee or elsewhere, please call the funeral home at 414-964-3111. We are available at all times. A funeral director will be notified immediately and will make arrangements to transport the deceased to the funeral home and set a time to either meet with you in person or speak with you by phone to set up funeral services. A hospital, hospice nurse or nursing home can also make the call for you.
Q: Do we have to come to the funeral home to make funeral arrangements?
A: No, funeral arrangements can be made at your home, by phone, by fax or even using e-mail if you prefer. We will accommodate whatever is most convenient for you.
Q: Can we arrange for a funeral before death occurs?
A: Yes, we have certified pre-need consultants on staff that are ready to answer your questions and to meet with you at the funeral home or in the comfort of your home or office. You can prepay for funeral arrangements, but it is not required. We can explain all of the financing options for you and set up everything from our office, your home, your office or your synagogue. If you are presently living outside of Milwaukee, arrangements can be set up by phone, e-mail or US Mail.
Q: Can a payment plan be arranged if a financial hardship exists?
A: Yes, Goodman-Bensman Funeral Home will provide the same services to all members of the community and will respect the privacy and confidentiality of those individuals who are experiencing hardship.
Q: Can someone explain Jewish funeral rites and rituals?
A: Yes, everyone on our staff is knowledgeable about Jewish rites and rituals and is willing to meet with you either before or after a death occurs to explain everything and answer your questions. Sometimes families consult clergy for guidance regarding funeral rites and rituals, but many families are unaffiliated. We are here to help regardless of your level of observance. We will accommodate whatever level of religious observance you are comfortable with.
Q: We are not religious. Can we still use Goodman-Bensman?
A: Yes, Goodman-Bensman is dedicated to serving our community with dignity regardless of your religious affiliation. Every family is welcome. We have served families of every observance level including interfaith families.
Q: Does Goodman-Bensman Funeral Home keep records of previous burials?
A: Yes, our historical burial records, dating back to 1927, offer guidance to families.
Q: How is the casket selected?
A: We offer a complete showroom with a full casket display at our Whitefish Bay chapel. If you prefer, you can choose from our vast selection of photographs. Some families ask us to research our archives to match the casket used for a loved one.
Q: Does Goodman-Bensman Funeral Home provide alternatives to burial?
A: Yes, the manner of final disposition is a personal matter which is sometimes discussed with clergy and/or close family members. Goodman-Bensman is a full service funeral home that can assist you with any method of disposition that you choose.
Q: We live out of town for half of the year. What should we do if a death occurs outside of Milwaukee?
A: If a death occurs outside of Milwaukee, we ask that you call us first. We can make immediate arrangements to transport the deceased back to Milwaukee, including arranging for local transportation and air transportation. Because of reciprocal arrangements with other funeral homes, we can help minimize the cost incurred to make out of state arrangements.
Q: Is the funeral home wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, both the north and south sides of our building offer not only a wheelchair accessible door, but also designated parking spots. Because immediate family often enters the funeral home from the south door, we recommend that extended family and friends who require a wheelchair accessible door, enter the funeral home from the north parking lot. Family and friends that require additional assistance should just contact the funeral home prior to the service, and we will do our best to assist you.
