Peters opens their remodeled home

Peters Funeral Home held an open house on Tuesday to unveil their recent remodeling of their Wasco facility.

Pre-need sales manager Mark Taber presented three testimonial videos from individuals who finalized their family member's needs, saying the move eliminated anxiety and stress during an emotional time.

Audience members shared their expected and unexpected experiences with a loved one's death and were unanimous in their conclusion that the ones who had prepared saved their families grief and dissent that often occurs when someone dies and hasn't made any plans.

After a catered lunch, a tour of the remodeled facility was given to everyone.

Peters added a functional kitchen area, where food can be warmed up or refrigerated, along with an ice machine. They included a large seating area with tables and chairs for funeral attendees to relax or have a reception at the funeral home. "If someone needs a caterer, we can obtain that," owner Rick Woody Jr. said.

The new chairs can be attached together to form rows for a service or they could be set out separately. The chairs replace the wood pews that had been in the chapel.

"The motivation behind the remodeling was to get rid of the pews," Woody said.

Peters has a variety of choices where caskets range from $850 to $12,000. They also provide rental caskets – often used for services prior to cremation -- with an insert from $795 to $3,295. Granite headstones are also available as well as granite benches.

Funeral pre-arrangements can be funded through guaranteed funeral and burial insurance or life insurance assignment. Cash, check and all credit cards are also accepted.

Along with the Wasco facility at 1401 7th St., Peters Funeral Homes have locations in Arvin and Shafter.

"The renovations will hopefully help our guests feel more comfortable. We added round tables in the new seating area so guests can enjoy refreshments while they are taking a break from a service, rosary or a funeral,"

In addition to new chairs, there is new flooring throughout the entire building. While the floors may look like granite, they are, in fact, comfortable to walk on without ridges or bumps. "It's a new technology that creates flooring to look like granite," Woody added.

Additional information is available by calling Peters Funeral Home at 661-758-5144. In Shafter, Peters is located at 844 E. Lerdo Hwy. and their number is 661-746-6314.

Owner Rick Woody and his wife Amy, Pre-Needs counselor Mark and Kristie Taber are all available to assist if anyone has questions about anything related to last wishes.