Springfield, Missouri – Scott Hinkle and Jordan Fenner of Hinkle Funeral Home recently completed 18 contact hours of specialized embalming and reconstructive training at the 4th FNA International Embalming and Reconstructive Surgery Conference for Professional Embalmers. This Biennial Conference, which is dedicated to the goal of viewing before final disposition of the deceased, was held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Springfield, Missouri August 4-7, 2016. During his opening statements Vernie R. Fountain, Licensed Embalmer, Post Mortem Reconstructive Specialist and FNA Founder, spoke about how grieving families often rush through the funeral process, not realizing the psychological value of taking time to view, accept and process the reality of life without a loved one. Fountain is a staunch advocate of viewing of the body for extended family and friends, whether the deceased is ultimately buried or cremated. Fountain told the group he fears that some families are encouraged to consider direct cremation without a clear understanding of other available options such as earth burial, entombment, and burial at sea – all of which could include embalming and viewing prior to final disposition. He also spoke of the importance of having frank conversations with loved ones regarding each family member’s wishes upon death. Fountain even outlined requests regarding his own death which includes embalming, public viewing, and plenty of time for family members and friends to grieve at their own pace as funeral arragements are made. He lamented the fact that some funeral homes advise against viewing, and reiterated that highly trained embalmers can give to a family what no other profession can – an important confrontation of the reality of death, a degree of peace, comfort, and the opportunity to say goodbye. The remaining three days of the conference featured ten embalming professionals who shared highly specialized techniques for repairing severe trauma and disfiguring facial injuries on a deceased to allow for viewing by family and friends.
Fountain National Academy’s world headquarters is based in Springfield, Missouri, USA with representatives in Ireland and Australia. Founder Vernie R. Fountain is internationally recognized for his expertise in this field. He states that Scott and Jordan’s participation in the International Conference is an expression of untiring devotion and commitment to the highest standards of professional embalming, and to the utmost dignity and respect to all families served.
