Life After Loss: Skills for Every Day

For Immediate Release: Life After Loss: Skills for Every Day

Lopatich-Brinker Funeral Home, LLC.

Flyer attached

August 25, 2025

Written by Mandi Moranelli

The loss of a loved one brings not only grief, but also many challenges for family and friends as they navigate a new way of life without them.

Tasks the deceased once handled, such as paying bills, maintaining a car, or changing a furnace filter, can be overwhelming to those encountering them for the first time. Even with a basic understanding of these responsibilities, many may feel uncertain and wish they had more knowledge to manage them confidently.

Living alone can also lead to anxiety about potential medical emergencies, especially when one feels unprepared to handle them effectively and promptly.

To support individuals in building the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed during this difficult transition, Lopatich-Brinker Funeral Home, 601 Weldon St., Latrobe, will be hosting a new seminar titled, “Life After Loss: Skills for Every Day.”

The free event will take place from 1-4 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Center for Student Creativity, Greater Latrobe Senior High School, 131 High School Rd., Latrobe. It will feature presentations by local professionals, including a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technician, an auto mechanic, an emergency room physician, a physical therapist, a financial expert, and a fire chief.

“It is geared toward people who have lost somebody in their lives and are now faced with learning a whole new set of skills,” said Jason Brinker, owner and funeral director of Lopatich-Brinker Funeral Home.

He explained that the HVAC segment will cover topics such as furnace filter essentials, routine and preventative maintenance, energy-saving tips, and emergency procedures. The automotive portion will address basic maintenance, seasonal care, annual inspections and registration, tire safety, and emergency readiness. A financial expert will share strategies for managing household budgets and taxes, planning and investments, and protecting against fraud. The fire chief will discuss the importance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, safe use of space heaters and power strips, basic electrical precautions, and overall emergency preparedness.

In addition, an emergency room physician will explain what to do if a medical issue occurs while home alone, including how to respond to choking and recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke. A physical therapist will provide tips on fall prevention, simple exercises to maintain strength and mobility, and proper body mechanics for everyday tasks like lifting and carrying groceries.

Jason, along with his wife, Hannah, emphasized that ‘Life After Loss: Skills for Every Day” is strictly an informational program, not a sales pitch. Presenters will be there to provide valuable guidance, and there is absolutely no obligation to them or to Lopatich-Brinker Funeral Home for attending.

“This is another way we are making sure that people know we have resources for them after the funeral,” he stated. “It is very important to me that not only the families we serve, but anyone who has to move forward on their own isn’t grasping at straws to figure it out.” 

“They aren’t alone,” added Hannah. “We are there to help them. It doesn’t matter where you are in your grief journey, this is for anyone who has experienced a loss. Everyone can pick up something new from this.”

The Brinkers acknowledge that the event coincides with the NFL matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Seattle Seahawks, but they hope this won't discourage people from attending.

“We know there is a Steelers game, but we will be sure to keep everyone informed,” Jason said with a laugh. “If you are hesitant to attend because of the game, we promise you we will keep you updated on the score.”

“Life After Loss: Skills for Every Day” is the latest in a series of events offered by Lopatich-Brinker Funeral Home, designed to support the community with resources that go beyond traditional funeral services.

“Beyond the Plate: Cooking for One,” held at the Latrobe Art Center, offered participants simple ideas for meal planning and preparation through an interactive workshop and shared meal. A children’s grief seminar, also held at the Latrobe Art Center, took place last fall and helped kids to process their emotions while painting festive pumpkins.

“These programs bring people together who have a common thread in life— they’ve all lost someone,” said Jason.

“There is an element of learning and camaraderie, as well as the opportunity to meet new people and friends. We were so pleased to see friendships develop through these programs.”

The couple noted that a children’s workshop will take place again in the fall, with details to be released at a later date. “Beyond the Plate: Cooking for One” is slated to return next spring. Information will be posted on the funeral home’s website, www.lopatichbrinker.com.

To register for “Life After Loss: Skills for Every Day,” contact the funeral home at 724-537-2001 by Sept. 4. Light bites and refreshments will be provided.