Offering condolences is often an awkward situation. These are times that deal with serious emotions. Condolences are best offered by a personal call or visit. But even so, you worry that you might be intruding at a time when privacy is preferred. What is a person to do?
There are no fast rules as to how a person can offer sympathy. If you are close to the person, he will expect you to be there. Maybe your presence is needed for some moral and physical support. For others sending sympathy gift baskets will suffice. Don’t forget to include a sympathy card with your handwritten note expressing exactly how you feel.