The short answer: there are no flowers a man cannot be remembered with. Families often look for one of three things when choosing funeral flowers for a man: strong colours such as red, white or blue, natural greens with a quieter look, or something that points to who he was. This guide walks through each one, what fits your relationship to him, and what to write on the card.
Start with who he was
A tribute means the most when people in the room recognize him in it. Before you think about flower types, think about him. Did he spend his weekends in the garden or at the cottage? Did he serve in the military or the fire department? Did he love one team his whole life? Was he plain spoken, or the first one on the dance floor? The answers usually point you toward a colour or a style faster than any list will.
It is also fine to choose soft pinks or bright mixed flowers for a man who loved them. Traditions are a guide, and they do not need to overrule what you know about him.
Colours often chosen for a man
Deep red, or red and white
Red says love and respect, and it reads clearly from across a large room. The Dearly Departed Casket Spray sets red roses and carnations among lush greens, and a version made with all red carnations is a plain, classic choice for a husband or a father. For red and white together, look at The Sincerity Casket Spray or the Loved by All Standing Spray.
Blue and white
Blue is calm and a little less expected. The Blue & White Sympathy Standing Spray brings white lilies together with blue roses and blue hydrangea. For a man who served his country, The Greater Glory Basket comes in red, white and blue.
Greens and natural textures
For a man who was happiest outdoors, a design led by greens can suit him better than a large display of blooms. The Natural Wonder Casket Spray uses lush greens and dried material, including lotus pods and willow branches, and Nature's Serenity is a funeral spray with green hydrangeas, bells of Ireland and blue thistle. Our Cherished Memories Bouquet sets orchids and white roses against deep green foliage.
Something bright
Not every service is quiet. The Celebration of Life arrangement has birds of paradise and orange roses, and it suits someone who filled a room.
What to send, based on your relationship
A husband or partner
The casket spray is usually chosen by the immediate family, so this is often the piece a spouse or partner decides on. If that decision feels like too much right now, a family member or the funeral director can help you with it. Our guide to casket sprays explains what they are and how they work.
A father or grandfather
Children often send a standing spray or a wreath. The Remembering Dad Arrangement spells out "Dad" in white chrysanthemums and red mini carnations, displayed on a wire easel. Our guide to funeral flowers for a mother, father or grandparent covers what family members usually send.
A brother, son or close friend
A standing spray or a wreath is a natural fit if you were close, and friends sometimes go in on one together. Colours from his favourite team or hobby are a nice personal touch. Some of our wreaths can be customized to your colour and flower preference, so call us to talk it through.
A coworker or neighbour
A smaller arrangement or a basket is usually enough, sent either to the service or to the family home. Our guide to sympathy flowers for a coworker or boss covers group gifts and card wording. For the home, a plant such as the Deeply Adored Palm Planter lasts well past the service, and our sympathy baskets include fruit that visitors can share.
What to write on the card
A card for a man does not need different wording from any other sympathy card. A short, specific line about him usually means more than a formal verse. A few examples:
- "He was the kindest neighbour we ever had. We will miss his wave from the driveway."
- "He taught me everything I know about hard work. With love and deepest sympathy."
- "Rest easy, old friend. Thank you for all the laughs."
Every order includes a free handwritten card. For more wording ideas, see our guide on what to write on a sympathy card.
Check customs first
Customs around funeral flowers differ between faiths and cultures, and some families ask for donations in place of flowers. If you are unsure, ask the family or the funeral home before you order. Our guides to funeral flower etiquette for different faiths and cultures and what "in lieu of flowers" means can help.
Ordering and delivery
Funeral flowers are delivered directly to the funeral home. Please add the name of the person who passed away, the funeral home, and the drop-off time in your order notes at checkout, so your tribute reaches the right room in time. Our funeral home list has addresses. Every piece is hand-arranged in our Mississauga studio, and delivery is free on orders of $50 or more. If you need help choosing, call us at 905-677-9999. See all of our casket sprays and sympathy and funeral flowers.