When a tragic death occurs, it often leaves the household in a turmoil. Basic tasks like cleaning and cooking are quickly forgotten by the newly bereaved family. They are just no longer important.

For this reason, it has become traditional to provide ready-to-eat or prepared foods as a gesture of sympathy... to not only help take care of the family, but to feed the horde of guests that invariably fill the house in times of sorrow.

If you can manage it, by all means send over a casserole or a spaghetti dinner with all the trimmings. Take the time to bake up 3 dozen cookies, muffins or brownies. Drop off a Honey Bak'd Ham or smoked turkey breast.

Another alternative to consider is a food sympathy gift basket... a caring and useful show of support that is sure to be appreciated. We present below a small collection of quality gourmet food baskets:
 

Food sympathy gift basket
 

Cheese and Wine This classic cheese and wine basket is a thoughtful show of support in a time of need. Included are a bottle of Forest Glen Chardonnay, two gourmet cheese rounds, Bremner Wafers, apples, a cheese board, and a cheese hatchet.

The 5th Avenue Wine Gift Basket An elegant show of sympathy. Old Vine Zinfandel,  Maryhill Winemaker's Blend ruby red are paired with gourmet foods: caviar, smoked salmon, seasoned crackers, Auberge camembert cheese spread, nuts, tea cookies, candies, and more. Personalize it!  Print your message of condolence on a satin ribbon.

Classic Fruit and Gourmet Basket With all the favorites like fresh fruits, chocolates and cheeses, it creates a classic sympathy basket. Apples, bananas and pears, along with cheeses, chocolates and crackers, arrives in a wicker basket with handle, tied with a bow.