Our
History

Established in 1876 with a commitment to inclusion, honoring our loved ones, and preserving legacies, Forest Home Cemetery has grown into a cherished historical site.

Our rural cemetery design emphasizes a serene, park-like setting with rolling landscapes, ornamental monuments, and natural features such as trees, the Des Plaines River, and open meadows. We blend our burial ground with public park elements, inviting reflection, leisure, and a connection to nature, while incorporating symbolic winding paths and monumental architecture to honor the departed.

1873
1873

German Waldheim Cemetery is established

1876
1876

Forest Home Cemetery is extablished.

1893
1893

The Haymarket Monument is dedicated.

1897
1897

Haymarket Monument becomes a National Historic Landmark.

1937
1937

Waldheim Chapel opens, promoted by then-president of Waldheim Cemetery Company Jacob Heissler. The Chapel still stands today.

1950's
1950's

Eisenhower Expressway construction displaces thousands of graves at Forest Home and Concordia cemeteries, which are relocated to other sections of the respective burial grounds.

1975
1975

The Garden of Eternal Devotion Mausoleum on the cemetery’s west side opens for entobments, the first of which takes place in May.

2012
2012

Forest Home’s first outdoor columbarium is established for above-ground cremation inurnments, with the first taking place in January.

2026
2026
Forest Home Cemetery will celebrate its 150th anniversary! Stay tuned for more information on upcoming news and events…

Call Us First

Reach out to our dedicated team at 708.366.1900. We will guide you through the next steps and make the process as smooth as possible.

Choose a Final Resting Place

Whether you prefer an immediate in-ground burial, above-ground mausoleum placement, or cremation memorialization, our team is here to help you select the most fitting option for your loved one.

Submit Necessary Paperwork

We will guide you on the documents needed, such as proof of identity and burial authorization forms. Rest assured, we handle all the logistics to make this as straightforward as possible.

Coordinate the Burial

Once you’ve chosen the resting place, we’ll work with you to schedule the burial service. Our experienced team will ensure all arrangements are made with care, including selecting a burial date and time that suits your needs.

Finalize Payment

We offer clear payment options, and our team can discuss available packages to fit your budget. We aim to provide transparency and support throughout this process.

Attend the Burial

On the day of the service, our team will be present to ensure everything is carried out with respect and dignity, giving you the space and time you need to honor your loved one.

After the Service

We continue to be here for you, offering assistance with memorial options and ongoing care for the grave site or memorial location.

Set up your burial
consultation today

We’re here for you every step of the way. Reach out to us for more information on securing your loved one’s resting place in office, over the phone, or by email.