From tattoos to trees: Why this widow's choice of memorial sparked discussions on social media

When 10-year-old Preston looked over his father’s more than 70 tattoos and pointed to a single design, his words were simple but profound: ‘This is Dad.’ That Pittsburgh Steelers skull helmet tattoo — black and gold, detailed with skull imagery — would become the piece of TJ Radevski that lived on in a way few could imagine.

After TJ’s sudden death at age 55 in March 2024, his wife Angelica made a decision that would spark nearly 30 million views on social media and reignite conversations about how we remember our loved ones. Instead of photos or ashes alone, she chose to have that exact tattoo professionally preserved and framed — not as a replica, but as the actual tattooed skin.

Angelica worked with Save My Ink Forever, the only company in the world currently offering tattoo preservation. Prices start at around $1,700 for a five-by-five-inch piece, with larger tattoos — like full sleeves — costing $15,000 or more.

Here’s how the process works: the funeral home receives a preservation kit and instructional video. A mortician removes only the necessary skin, places it in a preservative, and ships it to Ohio. There, a specialist team cleans it, trims excess tissue, repairs blemishes, and mounts the tattoo under museum-grade UV-blocking glass in a custom frame.

The ancient roots of physical memorials

While tattoo preservation sounds modern, it has a surprisingly long history. In early 20th century Japan, Dr. Fukushi Masaichi pioneered methods to remove and preserve tattooed skin, eventually collecting more than 2,000 preserved pieces. Most were destroyed during World War II, but some remain in museums today.

Why tangible memorials matter

Experts in grief psychology say physical memorials can help mourners process loss by providing a focus for memories and rituals. Angelica described the preserved tattoo as a bridge between physical presence and emotional connection, saying it holds details a photograph never could — the texture, wrinkles, and even fine hairs of TJ’s skin.

Grieving is a form of learning: when someone dies, your brain adapts to a new reality without them. Tangible keepsakes can serve as a grounding point in this process, offering comfort for years.

Memorial alternatives for Australian families

For those in Australia considering unique memorials, there are many options beyond traditional burials or urns. These include cremation jewellery, glass “comfort stones” made with ashes, diamonds grown from hair or ashes, living memorial trees, and even cremation ink for new tattoos.

The costs and practicalities

Angelica has also shared the financial side of her experience — TJ had no life insurance, leaving her family under strain. She now uses her platform to advocate for advance planning, including documenting end-of-life wishes and securing insurance to reduce financial pressure.

When traditions evolve

Reactions to Angelica’s decision have been mixed. Some praised it as a deeply personal and creative way to honour TJ’s memory; others called it macabre, even comparing it to acts by notorious criminals. But Angelica remains firm that the choice was right for her family, noting that grief is personal and there is no single “correct” way to memorialise a loved one.

Kyle Sherwood, co-owner of Save My Ink Forever, believes younger generations will normalise tattoo preservation, much like how cremation, once unusual, is now a common choice.