Walter J. Zalewski Funeral Homes Inc.

Review: Zalewski Funeral Homes have a motto: "Exceeding your expectations" They certainly exceeded mine by charging me almost $2000, more than the price given to me when I discussed the cost of the funeral with [redacted], one of the directors when I was making the arrangements for my sister's funeral. The price given to me was $8000, the price billed to me was $9855, just a tad under the full face amount of the policy of $10,000. In addition, he indicated that my sister would not have to pay for death certificates, being as her deceased husband was a veteran. Instead he billed me for 10 certificates at $9 each, only 4 of which I received, and 1 other of which was used for the insurance policy. I noted at the time that he did not give me a written estimate of the costs, but I concluded that I was dealing with a reputable business, not a used car lot, and that I could take him at his word. I was wrong. I should have made him give me a written, signed estimate. I deeply regret that I did not. I strongly recommend that anyone else who reads this makes Mr. [redacted] give him such a written estimate if they decide to use this funeral home. I was unable to discuss this matter with the two funeral directors, who avoided my calls, and was able only to talk to the bookkeeper. She attempted to justify the costs in the bill, which were poorly itemized. However the key issue here is that they should have been up front and above board about what they were going to charge me. Had I know they would be this expensive, I would have consulted other funeral homes, or even made other arrangements than burial for my sister, particularly considering the manner of her death. I deeply regret having used this funeral home for my sister's funeral and would not recommend it to anyone.Desired Settlement: A refund of at least $1000, would be much closer to the original estimate given me, and would be acceptable to resolve the issue.

Business

Response:

Dear Revdex.com of Western Pennsylvania,