Ertel Funeral Home & Crematory

Ertel Funeral Home & Crematory Ertel Funeral Home has been serving the Montezuma and Dolores County area for nearly 100 years.

We are honored to be a part of the rich history of this community and plan to be a part of it for many years to come.

Including children in funeral and memorial rituals can help them process death and loss in a supportive environment. Inv...
05/29/2026

Including children in funeral and memorial rituals can help them process death and loss in a supportive environment. Inviting them to participate, even in small ways, helps them feel connected and provides a sense of closure.

You might encourage children to draw a picture or write a note to place in a casket or at a memorial service. This simple act can give them a meaningful way to express their feelings and say goodbye. We're here to help you find thoughtful ways to include children and teens that feel right for your family.

Each Memorial Day, we remember the men and women who died while serving our country. Their sacrifice shaped the freedoms...
05/25/2026

Each Memorial Day, we remember the men and women who died while serving our country. Their sacrifice shaped the freedoms we live with today, and their legacy lives in family stories, hometown traditions, and the places they once called home. With gratitude, we honor their service and the lasting mark they left on our community and on the nation they served.

🌷 Grief moves at its own pace. 🌷
05/22/2026

🌷 Grief moves at its own pace. 🌷

Have you considered who you'll trust to know your funeral choices?Your family will face some big decisions when they're ...
05/19/2026

Have you considered who you'll trust to know your funeral choices?

Your family will face some big decisions when they're planning your celebration of life. Should they choose burial or cremation? What kind of service would you want? Would you prefer your favorite hymn or that song you always sang along to in the car?

They might second-guess every choice if they don't know your preferences. But when you've shared these thoughts with someone you trust, they can guide the family with confidence and know they're honoring exactly what mattered to you.

(And while you're having that conversation, ask those you love what they'd want, too.)

Who in your life will you trust to carry your voice forward?

"Can we hold a graveside service only?" Yes, you can, and for some families it feels exactly right.A graveside service o...
05/16/2026

"Can we hold a graveside service only?" Yes, you can, and for some families it feels exactly right.

A graveside service offers the simplicity of gathering in one place, and it can still include music, readings, or military honors that make it deeply personal. We work with the cemetery, and help you bring together all the details so the service reflects what matters most to your family.

When someone dies, families often feel unsure about what to do next, and a funeral helps because it gives everyone a set...
05/14/2026

When someone dies, families often feel unsure about what to do next, and a funeral helps because it gives everyone a set time to gather and support one another. People remember the person they loved together, and emotions feel a little easier to carry because no one is holding them alone. You don't have to make every decision right away, because we'll sit with you, talk through the options, and help you choose what feels right for your family, whether you're planning ahead or facing a loss now.

Today we honor the many ways love shows up through mothering. For those celebrating, for those grieving, and for those w...
05/10/2026

Today we honor the many ways love shows up through mothering. For those celebrating, for those grieving, and for those whose love never needed the title of mom.

This Mother’s Day recognizes care that gives, guides, and stays with us. If you feel moved, you are welcome to share who you are honoring or remembering today.

Older children and teens often want to share something special about the person who died. Inviting them to speak during ...
05/07/2026

Older children and teens often want to share something special about the person who died. Inviting them to speak during the funeral gives them a chance to do that in a way that feels personal. They might tell a favorite memory, read a poem, or say a few words about what their loved one meant to them. Having a voice in the service helps them feel like a valued part of the farewell.

Young people approach this differently - some want to speak themselves, others prefer to write something for someone else to read, and some choose to honor their loved one simply by being present and listening. We're here to help you find what feels right for each child or teen in your family.

Memories carry us through difficult times. They connect us to old traditions and open the door to new ones, keeping our ...
05/04/2026

Memories carry us through difficult times. They connect us to old traditions and open the door to new ones, keeping our bonds alive.

"Do we need to buy an urn right away?"If you haven't selected an urn, we return cremated remains in a temporary containe...
04/28/2026

"Do we need to buy an urn right away?"

If you haven't selected an urn, we return cremated remains in a temporary container. You can take the time you need to decide. Families handle this differently. You might choose an urn right away, wait several months, or continue using the container we provide. Whether it's been weeks, months, or years since a cremation, reach out anytime. When you feel ready, we help you find an urn that honors your loved one.

Your grief reflects your story alone. No one else holds the same memories or love you carry in the same way. However it ...
04/25/2026

Your grief reflects your story alone. No one else holds the same memories or love you carry in the same way. However it appears in your life, you honor it by letting it be yours.

Address

42 N Market Street
Cortez, CO
81321

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