Post in the Beyond - A Mailbox on Papa's Grave - A Mailbox Grave Marker Helps One Family Stay Connected to Their Late Father
A family in Bad Wildbad has found a unique way to remember their late father. Instead of a traditional headstone, the Schmids installed a grave marker with a built-in mailbox. Their children now leave letters inside, believing their father still hears them.
The design also includes a lion's head drawn by their son Ben and an imprint of their father's fingerprint. For the family, this personal touch has made grieving more bearable.
Christina Schmid struggled to find a headstone that truly reflected her husband while involving their children. Many designs felt impersonal or failed to capture his spirit. She wanted something that would let each child connect with their father in their own way.
The solution came in the form of a mailbox headstone, a concept supported by Allivestone co-founder Tim Busam. He sees such designs as a form of grief support, helping families process loss while maintaining a sense of connection. The Schmid children now write letters to their father, leaving them in the mailbox as if he were still receiving them.
Grief counsellor Chris Paul notes that people have always sought personal ways to mourn. Today, more imaginative options are emerging, from custom engravings to interactive grave markers. The Schmid family's approach reflects this shift, blending creativity with tradition.
At home, the Schmids keep their father's memory alive through photos and shared stories. They speak about death openly, often with humour, and refer to him as their 'Lion Dad'. Christina believes there is no single 'right' way to grieve—each child should find their own path.
The grave in Bad Wildbad has become a place of comfort for the Schmid family. The mailbox headstone allows them to stay connected to their father in a way that feels natural and personal. Their story highlights how modern grave designs can help families navigate loss on their own terms.
