Reviews of Candle Light Funeral Home by Craig Witzke (Mortuary)

Josie Schroeter

Craig and his staff recently handled my mother's funeral. During this very difficult time for my family, they were able to handle so many things for us. They were wonderful to deal with and I will be forever thankful for all their help.

Cindy Hartmann

My father recently passed away. Craig and his team were very caring and helpful with the arrangements that we needed to have made. We were very happy with all of the work that he and his daughter did for us! They helped us through a very difficult time.

Kim Haker

Our family could not be more pleased with the services Craig and his team provided. From pre-planning to seeing us through everything when the time came. The funeral home is well-appointed and comfortable. We chose to hold our funeral service onsite and were very happy with everything from the room layout to the comfortable chairs for our guests. Craig was in touch with us personally as we walked through what needed to get done - and kindly offered and provided his assistance with arrangement details and ensured everything was handled the day of. The entire staff of Candle Light was friendly and helpful. John, our funeral director for the day, was outstanding. We highly recommend Candle Light's services.

Colleen DeBoy

Craig and Team, We can't thank you enough for everything you did for us during our time of grief. You guided us through unfamiliar territory with nothing but kindness and professionalism. We had a budget and you worked with us to provide our family with everything my Father would have wanted for his memorial. We know he was smiling down on us that day. Don't change a thing, your establishment is a well oiled machine and we will continue to recommend your services. Thank you again, The DeBoy Family

Madeleine Mateo

Craig and his staff were one of the pillars that my family leaned on when we lost our dad. It's difficult to decide who to trust with such a pivotal service. I can sincerely say that you can trust Craig with your loved one. My dad's death was sudden and unexpected. We were overwhelmed by sadness and the shear amount of work that needed to be done so that my dad could be honored and celebrated. Craig took care of everything - transferring my dad from the hospital to his funeral home, notifying all required agencies, communicating with the mortuary in California where my dad would be buried, and fielding calls from stunned friends. All the while, Craig treated my family with kindness, patience, and respect. It is so hard to lose someone so pivotal and special in your life, and it feels weird to write a review for a funeral home, but the support and services provided by Craig and his staff were so extremely helpful in our grieving process. I am truly grateful for Craig and his staff (including their dog, Bentley).

Anna Mateo

Craig Witzke, his family, and the staff of Candle Light Funeral Home are truly incredible. From the beginning of our contact with Craig, he really went above and beyond for our family after the sudden passing of my dad. They were able to make my dad really look like himself and at peace as our family and dad's friends said their goodbyes at his viewing. This was our family's first time needing to plan arrangements for a loved one so close to us and Craig facilitated this process with ease. He was available 24/7 by phone even during the holiday to answer all of our questions (as well as friends calling the funeral home) and make sure that dad's viewings and arrangements for transport to California for burial were settled. He was extremely accommodating to all of our requests. He consistently checked up on each of us during the 3 viewings to make sure that things were going smoothly and to see if we were okay. Craig really showed his excellence to me when he stepped away from his own family and arranged a short time for my mom, sisters, and I to see my dad on Christmas Eve before my dad was flown to California. It meant the world to us, especially my mom. Furthermore, after the burial was completed, Craig called us to make sure everything went smoothly with the transportation. Thank you to Craig and his staff for your wonderful services during this difficult time in our lives.

Sharon Harms

My family and I were recently in need of the services of a funeral home. A family member recommended Candle Light Funeral Home by Craig Witzke. Craig Witzke and his staff provided us with very kind, compassionate and professional services and gently guided us through this most difficult and grievous time. Craig offered extensive personal attention, treating us as though we were his family, making our experience less difficult to bear. I am very grateful for the warmth, kindness, caring and professionalism shown by Craig and the staff, and highly recommend Candle Light Funeral Home to anyone in need of this type of service.

Shari Manger

My mothers passing was quite sudden and Craig and his team couldn't have been more wonderful! Sharon is the best at making you feel comfortable when trying to make difficult decisions at a most difficult time. She was there for me and my family anytime we had a question, day or night, just a phone call or a few steps away. Both the viewing and service were held at Candle Light and I couldn't have ask for better service. They are a family and they treat you like you are part of their family with their warmth and compassion. I highly recommend Candle Light, Craig, Ashley, Sharon and the entire team. You will not be disappointed.

Merissa Bogdanor

The entire staff was wonderful in helping us with arrangements for a complex, unique, and large visitation. Craig was considerate, helpful, and very easily accessible when we had questions. The facility was warm and comforting. We highly recommend Candle Light Funeral Home.

Lita Kearney

Craig Witzke and staff did a wonderful job with all the arrangements for my mother’s funeral and viewing. From our first call to him through the final accounting, he was very professional, understanding, and compassionate. Our family was very pleased with the services provided for the viewing, the funeral mass and the entombment afterwards. The facilities at Candle Light are top-notch and everything was arranged beautifully. The rooms comfortably accommodated the numerous people who showed up and we were very pleased with the efficiency and availability of the staff. Craig was very accessible throughout the whole process and called frequently to check in with us and to answer any questions we had. He made an emotional, stressful, and painful time in our lives much easier. I have not hesitation highly recommending them to others.

krinets8 Beatty

Craig and his kind staff were incredibly helpful after the death of my father. They even tracked down my father's military record, which we had been unable to locate. Every detail was executed perfectly and with dignity. My father passed away around 10p.m. at a nursing home in Calvert County. I was informed by the nursing home that they could only hold Dad's body for four hours. Without a signed contract from us, Craig and his team came all the way down from Catonsville and picked up my father. This is a local, family-run business, and their attention to every detail shows that. I would highly recommend their services to anyone. In addition, their business inhabits the former Candle Light restaurant, and they have preserved much of that Catonsville landmark.

gjpc308 Waits2017go

Special thanks to Sharon, Darin, Ashley, and Craig for their compassionate, professional service to our family in our time of need. We highly recommend Candle Light Funeral Home.

Heather Day

Everyone we had contact with was wonderful and extremely helpful through the whole process.

Don Cavey

When a loved one passes away, we all are in a state of shock and grief. One has to call the funeral director at all times of the night. On December 10, 2016, my mom, Katherine Cavey passed away at my sister's home in Bernice, Louisiana. Since she was to be buried in Maryland, transport was required. Craig called the funeral director in Louisiana, and made sure that the arrangements would be taken care of as planned. When she arrived at the airport, she was brought to Candle Light Funeral Home and prepared for viewing the next day. Gosh, such short notice. The funeral went as planned and Craig made everything happen with dignity and respect. For this, I will be forever grateful. Thank you Craig Witzke and staff for helping my family and friends through this very difficult time.

Alison Killen

The Witzke's and their co-workers are a true blessing. Their job isn't just a job to them. They truly put everything they have into their jobs. My family and I had a great experience with them and are so happy we picked their funeral home. Thank you again Ashley and Craig for all the help and for making sure my family and I were okay during this tough time.

Patricia Kemp

The staff at Candlelight Funeral Home treated my family with respect, but also with a personal touch that made a very difficult time a bit easier. They offered suggestions and advice that helped us make good decisions, and even made a trip to our home to get some paperwork signed. Sharon went above and beyond to help me with arrangements for my husband, and I will be forever grateful. We needed to delay his viewing to allow time for our daughter to come home from overseas and our fears that he would not look like himself were not realized. We had so much help from the staff and Craig Witzke was wonderful to us. I heartily recommend Candlelight to any in need of sensitive, professional help during bereavement.

Holly Bennett III

In this time of grief the Candle Light Funeral Home and especially Craig Witzke were fantastic to deal with. I had no idea what to expect having to make arrangements for my father's funeral and Craig helped me through the process with care and compassion. He was able to explain the options and decisions I had to make without any pressure and provided suggestions when I was confused. From planning arrangements to the funeral service itself Craig was wonderful. He was very flexible with scheduling the visitation and service and went above and beyond making sure everything we wanted occurred. Even his daughter helped us out when our flash drive with photos would not run properly and after spending time working out our problems she had the slide show up and running before family and friends arrived. Craig called me several times to check in, inform me of the progress he was making with the details (military honors, keepsakes and making sure my family was doing alright). Craig and his staff made this very difficult time for us very comfortable and certainly put us at ease. I know my dad would have been pleased with the entire process and I cannot think of a single thing that could have been done better. Thanks Craig for getting us through this!

Jeremy Slack

Perfect experience during a rough time. Everthing want off without a hitch for My great grandmother's funeral and burial. Everyone was extremely friendly and very welcoming. Not an event that you want to be a part of, but when the necessity arises, Candle Light Funeral Home is the best.

Ronnie Polk

Craig and his family @ Candlelight funeral home were absolutely wonderful in our time of grief. They were compationate, friendly, and helpful. We appreciated all the time and attention that was given to us. We recommend the Candlelight Funeral Home to all our friends and family. God bless your family

Jacqueline Pennisi

Arrangements were flawless, professionalism very much respected during a difficult time.

Stephen Luco

Craig Witzke and the entire staff of the Candle Light Funeral Home did a wonderful job with everything when my granddad passed. They went above and beyond to help and make sure everything was exactly the way the family wanted. Craig even came and visited my grandparents house to offer his personal condolences and talk with my grandma. A very beautiful establishment and very respectful staff.

Jamie Sweadner

I called Craig Witzke to help me through a recent, devastating loss in my family. Craig was compassionate and caring. He answered questions that I hadn't asked yet and made sure I knew that he was available to help. Ashley Witzke made a point to meet me and introduce me to Bentley, who gave me sloppy kisses and licked my earring. The Witzke family sincerely cares about the families who entrust them with their loved ones.

tstsphipps .

Just wonderful, caring, and supportive family. Craig and his daughter have created an invaluable resource for the Catonsville community. A special service that can go unrecognized~ so I'm glad to give them 5 stars. When they opened, my mother was living at Charlestown retirement community but immediately changed her funeral home choice to Candlight ~ and I'm so glad she did...

Karen Spindler

We could not be more pleased with the services provided by Craig and his team. Craig guided us through the process with his tips and expertise, and was available whenever we needed him. He even checked in with us several times to make sure everything was going smoothly. We had our funeral service on site...under the circumstances, it was a beautiful service. During a very stressful time in our family's life, it was nice to know that Craig and his team had things under control. We would highly recommend Candle Light Funeral Home to anyone.

Bonnie Blottenberger

Five star rating for the Candle Light Funeral Home! Having to plan a funeral while grieving for a loved one is a most difficult task, but Julie at the Candle Light Funeral Home was so helpful and accommodating. She and her staff took care of us as if we were family. Always gracious, providing answers to all situations, she and the staff worked with us to organize and execute a most beautiful Memorial Gathering. We are most grateful for her expertise and Craig Witzke for providing that personal touch giving us his best wishes as we were leaving. Truly a great team, and we are not forgetting Bentley!

Kimberly Haeusler

I am so thankful for the staff at Candle Light Funeral Home. After my mom's passing, I chose this funeral home because of my memories of the former restaurant. I am so glad I did because they were absolutely excellent to work with during what was an overwhelming time for me. They were extremely professional, organized, caring, and helpful from beginning to end.

Don Drehoff

Not enough stars in the world to show how wonderful Craig and his team are. From the moment we contacted Candle Light after my mom's sudden passing -- the team provided comfort, planning, advice and support -- all with a gentleness and attention-to-detail that allowed us grieve and celebrate. Thank you, Craig and team, for what you do and how you do it.

Ian Smith

From start to finish, Craig, Sharon, Ashley and all the others made this process seamless. It is never fun nor easy to plan a loved ones memorial, but I could not be more pleased with the service that everyone at Candle Light put on for my Brother. Many of the attendees commented on how pretty and well organized everything was. This is definitely a place I would recommend in the future for when the unfortunate happens to a loved one. Fantastic job again to all at Candle Light - and Thank you ALL for what you did to make my Brother's Memorial the best it could be.

Andriana Pateris

We are blessed to have received such caring and quality service from Sharon and Ashley, during such a difficult time. The funeral arrangements were straight forward and uncomplicated. Every detail of their services were performed flawlessly. They were especially helpful during the funeral service guiding and supporting us, easing the immense amount of stress of the day. Truly outstanding experience. Thank you

Jeff Damn Hinton

I've attended many funerals, but the attention to detail, friendly staff and beautiful surroundings makes this a 5 star funeral home! This is a TRUE family run funeral home.

Susan Dawson

We were highly pleased with all of the services provided by Craig Witzke and his team. Many thanks!

bill lynch

The staff of the Candle Light were both professional and sympathetic and couldn't have done more to help us through the process. Erin was our primary contact, and she was fantastic as she took her time to explain every choice and step along the way. Unlike the horrible experiences you may have read about other members of the industry, these folks made everything about the expenses transparent and also made it very clear that we were the ones in charge of what would be done and how. They even did things we wouldn't have thought about asking them to do...to include providing us with a list of all flowers that were sent, that included a description of each arrangement, the sender, and the florist. Seemingly little things like that, which were very important to my Mom (who wanted to be sure she sent thank you notes to everyone) are why you go to people who know what they're doing and are enough a part of the community to know how to do it right.

Michael Caulfield

I had the arrangements for my Aunt taken care of by Candle Light Funeral Home. Chrissy Bare was assigned to me and she was extremely professional and helpful. If that was not enough, I received a personal phone call from Craig Witzke (the owner of Candle Light) just to check on me and to make sure all was being taken care of as needed during this difficult time. I highly recommend Candle Light Funeral Home for their professionalism and their kindness. They went out of their way to make sure all of our needs (seen and unforeseen) were taken care of.

Sharon Z

I highly recommend Candle Light Funeral Home, which did an excellent job recently in handling funeral arrangements for us. Sharon's accessibility and professionalism in meeting with us, answering our questions, and overall communication was outstanding and refreshing during a difficult time. We are very appreciative!

Jessica Dee

Everyone at Candle Light has done nothing but treat our family with love and respect! They go the extra mile. So grateful for them!

Salvatore Schittino

I couldn’t have been more pleased with my experience with Candle Light Funeral Home. They not only made my loved one look absolutely beautiful and at peace before saying my last goodbyes, but both Craig and daughter Ashley Witzke provided me personally with genuine comfort and ease during such a trialing time for my family and I. They also made sure that everything went smoothly and void of any added stress. They were not only professional at all times, but most importantly they provided a humanistic, loving, and empathetic environment which was adhering and consoling for the grieving process. They met our needs and more in every aspect of the funeral process. And lastly, they make you feel less like a client and more like a family member. I would pick this Candle Light ten times out of ten over any and all of their competitors.

Michelle Dwyer Gerlowski

The Witzke's make you feel like family the moment you walk through their door. Dealing with death is one of life's most painful parts, but they remind you that you never have to go through it alone.

Lindsey Ramiro

Craig, Ashley & the entire Witzke staff are without question the most kind, caring, compassionate people I have ever had any dealings with when it comes to the loss of a loved one. They truly go the extra mile to lessen the burden of your loss. I am so grateful to you all for the comfort you provided during the loss of my dear friends mother. You all went out of your way. Thank you for everything...you all are the best in the business!

Michelle Schonig

Whenever someone's loved one passes over, I automatically think of Craig Witzke because I know the Candle Light Funeral Home would be the place I would want my funeral. I have attend 2 services and both were absolutely beautiful. The Candle Light is run by the Witzke family and their compassion, experience and comfort in a time of need is priceless. Craig's attention to every detail of the service, Ashley comforting presence/oragization skills and Russel's years of experience and compassion make a very difficult time, more bearable. But the most comforting is Bentley, the funeral home comfort dog. He fills that hole in your heart that is left when no words can be found to comfort you any longer. You will not find yourself in better hands.

jane perkins

We met Craig years ago and my father was determined that he would only go to Candle Light. When Dad decided to make his pre-arrangements in June, 2016 we went to see Craig. Dad was very specific, and also a US Marine, which meant a veteran burial and at a Veterans cemetery which requires additional details at the last minute. Craig made it very comfortable but at the same time efficient. All bases were covered and Dad left feeling good about it, even though he knew that it may not be long before he would be passing on. During the funeral arrangements, from the first phone call at 6am to the last farewell at the church, Craig was nearby, on the phone, in person, in our car window making sure that every detail was addressed. Usually with military funerals there is a little more time; for our father, there was a time available the same week, which put additional pressure on the details for Craig. He never let it show. He was composed, advised on flowers, flags, time schedules, and accommodations, right down to the American Legion post flag being at the foot of the casket. Craig and his staff did a lovely job at an emotional, life-changing moment in our lives. Our father was an exceptional and special man; he had a fitting farewell.

Elizabeth Officer

I cannot speak highly enough of Craig and the staff at Candle Light. I found them through a panicked google search late in the evening and just had to cross my fingers. I was relieved and then astounded at the kindness, and perfect service we received through the whole process. Craig made everything so easy for my family at such a difficult time. Our meeting was not the sales pitch I was afraid of in the slightest. He instinctively picked up on the tiny details we mentioned casually through our conversation and used them to make wonderful suggestions. I could really not be more impressed at the way these folks went above and beyond for my family and for my dad. I wish I could rate them a billion stars on this thing. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to Craig Witzke and everyone at Candle Light!

Maria Goebel

Craig and his daughter Ashley gave us a wonderful atmosphere to celebrate my mom's life and honor her passing. They warmly met all of our needs.

S, Moxley

Despite the circumstances, the Witzke family made the visit inviting and warm. The building is warm and the staff very professional. Not your typical "big business" funeral home. Family have used the Candle Light and commented that the staff placed them at ease and they felt peaceful making the arrangements and during the viewing and funeral. Thank you for providing an alternative.

Jessica Garry

The Witzke's are great people, when my dad passed away about a year ago very sudden they were right there to help. They made the process of planning the funeral very easy for my family. They definitely know how to handle all situations very well and I highly recommend them!

Jeff Moore

Craig and staff were extremely helpful planning our Father's viewing and funeral. They advised, sympathized, helped, organized and most off all were there for us when needed. On the day of the funeral Craig was with us and helped us througout the day -respectfully in the background, but always fully available. Thanks Craig, Ashley, and staff for helping guide us through this difficult process in a professional and caring way. Jeff and Tracy Moore

Charles Granderson

Craig and his staff helped us during a very difficult time after the passing of our beloved 26-year old son Ben. From planning to the end of Ben’s beautiful ceremony less than a week later, Candle Light provided caring, competent service, day and night, and an excellent location. We are very grateful and highly recommend Candle Light.

Frann Goldsmith

There are very few words that can adequately express our appreciation for the quality of service we experienced during our time of grief. You and your staff graciously assisted us from prearrangement to the actual date of our Mother's funeral. You relieved us of the burden of making final arrangements with your professional expertise and utmost attention to detail. Everything you did was was handled with exquisite professionalism, compassion and respect. Our profound thanks to Craig, Ashley and all the wonderful staff at Candle Light Funeral Home. ..........The Carrion Family...........

Meghan Beer

I have been to The Candle Light Funeral Home several times and wanted to write a review to let people know how loving, kind and compassionate the Witzke Family is. They make planning very easy even though its such a painful time. They are there to help but unobtrusive. Craig Witzke, his daughter Ashley, and the staff are there for every need no matter how easy or difficult. I highly recommend them, you will feel absolute peace having them help you.

dan ossing

Craig patiently explained the funeral/burial process, what was necessary, what could be done by us, services and costs, etc., which was invaluable and quite enlightening. We were quite surprised upon picking up the memorial prayer cards, that each card was laminated, above and beyond in my opinion, much appreciated, thank you. Excellent service at a time when one isn't in the business frame of mind.

Rusty Rainville

Totally professional staff, but, so loving to the survivors. Pure class.

john engel

Graig was wonderful during a very difficult time. He was extremely thoughtful and compassionate and ensured every detail was managed with utmost professionalism and care. I highly recommend him.

Susan Lau

Craig, Julie and the entire staff guided us through this difficult process with compassion, efficiency, and professionalism.

Alfred Reichart

Craig Witzke and the Candle Light Funeral Home staff provided a tremendous service when we needed help and direction. At this time of stress he guided us and anticipated all our needs. He and his staff stepped in and handled the many tasks necessary. All in all it was a great relief having his services. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend his services.

Katie Sams

I lost my husband tragically on Sunday, and his service was on December 23, 2016. I was in complete shock and disbelief. I walked around in a devastated daze this whole week, and probably will for a while. Craig and his family and staff were fabulous, personable, and respectful throughout this whole process. Craig walked me through the steps I needed to take in order to have a beautiful memorial service for my husband. He had copies of papers for me to take home, when he knew I wasn't processing the information that he was discussing with me in our meetings. He called to check up on me, to make sure that I was ok, and that all of my husband's wishes were being honored. He made it possible for us to have the pastor ( Mark Waddell) available for the service. I can't say enough about Craig Witzke and Candlelight Funeral Home, they really made a difficult time, easier so I could start processing the death of my husband and not worry about the details of his service. Thank you for taking such great care of my husband and for providing such a beautiful service!

Kelly Sarchiapone

I have known the Witzke's for a longtime. I have been so excited to see them open the Candlelight since I first heard. I have already decided that they will be the place I want to be when the time comes. They are completely professional and compassionate. Ashley is going to be wonderful as a successor. I suggest anyone looking for a place that is warm and wonderful for a time that typically is horrible to consider them. You will be in absolute perfect hands from beginning to end. You will be glad you chose them.

Edward Pesce

Didn't know what to do nor how to do it nor what to expect from a funeral home. The moment we met with Sharon these frightening unknowns began to evaporate! Couldn't believe we could get through all the planning and decisions, at such a painful time with such ease, peace and confidence. This was an excellent choice.

Steve Miller

Craig and his family have served generations of families in this area with quiet professionalism and are a major part of this community. Our family has relied and continues to rely upon theirs in our times of need. Thank God for the Witzke family, and their selfless service to our community and beyond.