Navigating the Obituary Process: A Comprehensive Guide for Families

Losing a loved one is a profoundly difficult experience, and the process of honoring their memory through an obituary can feel overwhelming. However, with the right information and guidance, families can navigate this process with confidence and ensure that their loved one's legacy is appropriately celebrated. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a clear and detailed roadmap for placing an obituary, addressing the necessary information, policies, and procedures to ensure a seamless experience during this challenging time.

Crafting a Lasting Tribute: The Obituary Essentials

Gathering the Necessary Information

When preparing an obituary, it's crucial to have the following details on hand:- Your full name, address, phone number, and an alternate contact number- The deceased's name- The obituary text, which should capture the essence of the individual's life and accomplishments- A high-quality photo in JPEG or PDF format (TIF and other file types are also accepted)- The desired ad run dates, with the option to run the obituary for multiple days to take advantage of discounted rates

Verifying the Death

To publish an obituary, the newspaper requires verification of the death. This can be done by providing the name and phone number of the funeral home or cremation society handling the arrangements. Alternatively, a death certificate can also be used for this purpose. It's important to allow enough time for the newspaper to contact the funeral home, especially during limited weekend hours.

Navigating the Online Presence

All obituaries published in the newspaper will also appear on TwinCities.com, with a permanent online guestbook. If you wish to have the online presence removed, you can contact the newspaper's obituary desk. Additionally, any changes to the online obituary can be handled through the same desk.

Understanding the Payment Process

Prepayment is required for all obituary notices prior to publication. Payment can be made by credit card, electronic funds transfer (EFT), or cash (at the newspaper's front counter). The minimum charge for an obituary is $162 for the first 10 lines, with an additional $12.20 per line after that. If the ad is under 10 lines, the minimum rate of $162 still applies. For a second run date, the lines are charged at $8.20 per line, starting with the first line. Additionally, each photo published is $125 per day.

Meeting the Deadlines

To ensure your obituary is published on the desired day, it's crucial to adhere to the newspaper's deadlines. The deadlines vary depending on the day of publication, with different cutoff times for submitting the obituary content, payment, and photos. Failure to meet these deadlines may result in the obituary not being published as requested.

Memorials and Remembrances

Unlike an obituary, a memorial or remembrance submission is a way to honor a loved one who has passed. The rates and process for these types of submissions differ from obituaries, and families are encouraged to contact the newspaper's obituary desk for more information.

Ensuring Accuracy and Attention to Detail

Once the obituary submission is complete, the newspaper will provide a proof for review prior to publication. It's crucial to carefully review this proof and notify the newspaper of any errors or changes before the notice appears in the newspaper. After publication, the newspaper will not be responsible for any errors that may occur.By understanding the comprehensive process outlined in this guide, families can navigate the obituary placement with confidence, ensuring that their loved one's memory is honored with the care and attention it deserves during this difficult time.