NEW ULM — The COVID-19 pandemic will affect the operation of Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes, according to General Manager Eric Warmka.

“We are still operating twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week making certain that those entrusted to our care and the families we serve are receiving uninterrupted service and attention. We have been in constant contact with our state and federal agencies as well as the CDC to receive information that is as current as possible in efforts to control the spread of the virus.

“As health officials have indicated, as of March 16, the CDC has requested limiting gatherings to 10 people or less for the next weeks to come. This does adversely affect the way we are allowed to conduct funeral services in the modern era. As for now, many of our services in these times will be privately hosted, family-only events. If a memorial visitation is demanded, they will be carefully monitored with only limited individuals being allowed to visit with families at a given time. Rigorous cleaning routines and procedures will be happening on a constant basis. Arrangements can currently still be made in person, but tele-conferencing will be recommended. We will still have limited staff available during normal hours of operation, but are asking the public to wait on all non-essential visits to the funeral home at this time.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to anyone who has the additional burden of grief and loss during this time. We as a funeral home are here to guide each family with their particular needs on an individual basis and are still able to find ways to create a meaningful service. Death is not something that can be planned or scheduled, but we know that it is a part of life. A funeral service is a way for the healing process to begin after a loss has occurred, and we will do anything we can in our legal capacities to allow this to happen.

“All are aware the way to limit the spread of this virus is by refraining from going out into public. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or are feeling unwell, please stay home. This not only speeds your own recovery, but is the best way to prevent further spread of the virus to high risk individuals.

“There are alternative ways to show bereaved families your support during their time of loss, such as sending sympathy cards to the funeral home which can be forwarded to the family. Sending online condolences on our website’s guestbook section is another great way to show families that you are thinking about them during their time of loss,” said the press release.