Barton Family Funeral Service

01/20/2026

Let’s talk viewings. Recently we had a family become upset because they came in and expected a viewing on demand. Unfortunately, death in real life is nothing like you see on television. Things to take into consideration:

-we do not bring everyone back to our offices. Most people go to our care center where they rest unless we have a reason to bring them to our Kirkland location (for example, the family has decided to arrange a viewing)

-your loved one may need to be washed and cleaned before viewing. Lots of things happen with the human body after one passes and they aren’t necessarily tidy things

-embalming may be a very wise decision in many cases. It’s not an upsell. It’s a science that helps slow decomposition, it helps prevent leaking of body fluids, embalmed bodies are better able to wear cosmetics (believe us—we try to keep people looking as natural as possible but it does help bring some color back and often cover or lessen bruising, etc). Especially if you are planning a viewing days after a death. Nobody holds up the same after passing, but it never gets better day after day and there’s just no way to know who will look okay and who won’t. Embalming helps!

-most people would like us to “set features”. This is where we ensure your loved one looks truly at rest. Their eyes are closed, etc. It takes more than a brush of the hand.

All in all, the reality is a viewing takes time to arrange. We are more than willing to accommodate you, but it needs to be scheduled, there is a charge for viewing and it won’t happen immediately in 99% of cases.

PS. Autopsied bodies are not returned to us like you see in a television medical examiner’s office either. Not-at-all. We have to do the repair work often portrayed as being done on the big screen. Our medical examiners do not have the time or resources for that.

01/13/2026

I’m POA so I’ll handle the ⚱️⚰️ arrangements. Maybe. Maybe not.

Don’t assume because you have a power of attorney that you’ll be able to control the disposition of another. Unless otherwise stated, a POA ends when a person passes away. In very few cases they contain useful language that allows us to use them such as “the right to control disposition” or “arrange for cremation” etc. Each situation is different and so is every legal document. Give us a call ahead of time so we can go over your plans and your documents and let you know if they will suffice or if we’ll need additional paperwork. We are here to answer questions and make sure you are truly prepared!

01/07/2026

Meet Kirkland’s top comfort ambassador! Cosmo brings much comfort and joy to our families when they come into our office. He’s a good boy! 😻

12/31/2025

We know loss makes it hard to celebrate the holidays but we wish you all a peaceful and pleasant New Year tonight. We are closed on 01/01/2026. Even so, our phones are always answered if you need us. Be safe everyone 🧡

12/24/2025

Our offices are closed for the holiday but our telephones are always answered if you need us ❤️

12/09/2025

Thank you to all of the hardworking folks honoring our Veterans this holiday season with the beautiful wreath laying tradition across our country 🌲🇺🇸🌲

Wreaths Across America ("WAA") coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies every December to "Remember, Honor, and Teach" about the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families. Please check out this page to learn how you can help by sponsoring Veterans Remembrance Wreaths or by joining us on Decembe...

12/02/2025

Check out some holiday safety tips from the US Fire Administration. Deck the halls…safely! ❤️💚❤️💚

11/26/2025

What if someone passes away on a major holiday? Will the funeral home come?

Yes. We will. We answer our phones and we take people into the care of our funeral home 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week. Holidays included.

When you call Barton Family Funeral Service, you’ll be speaking with an employee or an owner 💯of the time. You’ll never get an answering service. One of the many benefits of working with a family owned funeral home in your time of need.

11/19/2025

Is it okay to travel by air with cremated remains? ✈️🧳🌎

If you are traveling domestically, yes! You can hand carry an urn with you through TSA. You should be sure the urn is xrayable (ie our basic urn is a great option for this) and we give families a copy of the Washington State Burial Transit Permit just to have on hand. Just let TSA know what you have and send the urn through when directed.

If you are traveling internationally, maybe. It depends on the country you will be entering. Each has their own rules and requirements. Be sure and check with us before you book a flight to be sure you have everything you’ll need to do so! Some paperwork requirements can take a bit of time to complete so keep this in mind.

Wherever you’re flying off to, please NEVER pack the urn in your checked luggage. Carry it on board with you to assure you remain in control of your loved one’s remains.

We understand how painful losing a loved one is and we treat crematory remains with respect. Some airlines do not allow cremated remains in checked bags, so please check with your airline to learn more about possible restrictions.

10/06/2025

PSA: Barton Family Funeral Service now owns and operates our own crematory. We can serve our community better with more control over all aspects of our operations and ultimately this led to our decision to move forward with this new facility. ❤️

11/14/2024

Need flowers? We only recommend the best. Crossroads Florist/Bothell Florist offers our families the freshest and most beautiful arrangements in all price ranges. They are true artists and can help add elegance to any funeral service.

Order flowers online from your florist in Bellevue, WA. Bellevue Crossroads Florist, offers fresh flowers and hand delivery right to your door in Bellevue.

11/01/2023