His Widow, who is 95 years old, has been told by the funeral...home in Coolidge, AZ that she must pay the entire amount of their services BEFORE they will release his body to be laid to rest at the VA Cemetery in Cave Creek, AZ. We have seen the contract. In this contract, they are charging her for fees that most funeral homes would not charge for or would waive the fees in cases like this. There have been a few phone calls to the funeral home asking for them to set her up on a payment plan so she can at least bury her husband and have some peace. Instead, they have refused.
This US Veteran has been lying in their cold room, waiting to be laid to rest, for over 2 weeks. His Widow has been selling her personal belongings and those of her deceased husband to try to raise the money to pay for these fees! She is disabled herself and has depended on outsiders to help her, one of which she feels has stolen some of her money that was set aside for the funeral home fees.
This funeral home, Heritage Funeral Home in Coolidge, AZ, is known for doing business this way. This World War II Veteran served our country for our freedoms that we enjoy today. In my opinion, it's now time to "give back" to him and his Widow. Allow her to bury him with the Military honors that he deserves. Let's give her some peace of mind knowing that the State of Arizona cares for our Veterans.
Any assistance that you could render would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for your attention in this matter.
There is an account set up for donations at Great Western bank under" Edwin Lent WWII Veteran Burial Fund" account # 11960257.
UPDATE TO THIS STORY:
The owner of one of our local businesses, Perfect Pawn and Jewelry (located on the NE Corner of Ironwood and Ocotillo), Michael Cox, a Marine, read this story on SanTanValley.com and was immediately put in contact with those individuals working to resolve this situation. Mr. Cox committed to giving $1000 to the Edwin Lent Burial Fund. $3800 was the original dollar amount needed, and at this time it appears that only $1000 more will allow this vet to be buried with the honor he deserves. Please continue to spread the word and we will keep you posted on the status. Thank you!
