Seminar to help veterans secure death benefits

WAUSAU – The Marathon County Veterans Service Office and Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Homes and Crematory will host a free seminar for veterans and their families to learn how to pre-register for state and national cemeteries, military markers and medallions, and military honors, as well as how to personalize funeral and memorial options.

The seminar will take place at 10 a.m. July 8 at the Sixth Street Filling Station, 1314 N. Sixth St., Wausau.

At the seminar, attendees can access various VA death benefits, including burial allowances and honors, which depend on the veteran’s discharge status and other specific eligibility criteria. VA burial benefits could reimburse some of the costs, such as burial, plot, transportation of remains and headstones. There are an estimated 9,200 veterans in Marathon County.

“This seminar will provide vital information on what the veteran should do now to prepare, as well as what the family will need when they request VA burial benefits following the veteran’s passing,” said Gwen Loiz, Marathon County Veterans Service Office, who will speak at the event.

“We urge the attendance of veterans of all ages,” said Greg Zoromski, Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Homes and Crematory. “We encourage veterans to bring their spouse or a family member who might be involved in handling their final affairs.”

According to an article in the October 2023 issue of AARP Magazine, about 58 percent of veterans do not receive any burial benefits.

Refreshments will be served. Space is limited, so you are encouraged to RSVP to 715-845-6900 or [email protected].