Firstly, let me apologise for what is obviously an insensitive question. If the thing described in the title has happened to you recently (or at any time, really), and you don’t wish to dwell on the matter or discuss it, please accept my sincere apologies for your loss and please don’t hurt yourself by trying to participate in this thread.
I would be interested to hear of stories about people who lost a relative on or near a holiday where there were wrapped presents that the relative never got a chance to open. What did you do with the presents in such a situation?
I’m sorry it’s such a stupid question. It’s happened to a few former colleagues of mine years ago - and my curiosity would never let the matter rest in my mind, but there was never a right moment to ask about it.
Rather timely. My ex died recently, 2 weeks after his birthday and soon after Father’s Day. His daughter was keeping his cards and present until she saw him. At her request I had the cards placed in the coffin. I photographed them first as she had written lovely things inside. I believe the present is going to her grandfather, his father.
My dad went into hospice a few days after Christmas 2006, died a few weeks later. His gifts were opened on Christmas - so a little different than what you’re asking. Mom returned our gifts to us when it was clear he was not coming home. I had bought him his favorite mukluks and a fleece lined flannel shirt.
After he died, I gave my oldest nephew the mukluks. Dad always had a pair, it had become kind of a family joke. My nephew was now the “man” of the family, so they went to him. The first time I saw him wearing them, it brought tears to my eyes.
The flannel shirt is still hanging in my closet.
I’m probably overly practical, but I’d just regift.