Navigating the Obituary Process: A Comprehensive Guide

Losing a loved one is a profoundly difficult experience, and navigating the process of placing an obituary can add an additional layer of complexity. The Pioneer Press, a trusted local news source, has outlined a comprehensive guide to assist individuals in this delicate task. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the requirements, policies, and procedures involved in publishing an obituary, ensuring a seamless and efficient process during a time of grief.

Honoring the Departed with Dignity and Precision

Gathering the Necessary Information

To begin the obituary process, individuals must gather the required information, including the full name of the deceased, the obituary text, and a photograph in a JPEG or PDF format. Additionally, the contact details of the person placing the obituary, such as their name, address, phone number, and an alternate phone number, are necessary. This information ensures efficient communication throughout the process.

The obituary text itself should provide a meaningful and accurate account of the deceased's life, capturing their unique personality, accomplishments, and the impact they had on their loved ones. Crafting this narrative with care and attention to detail can serve as a lasting tribute to the individual's memory.

Regarding the photograph, the Pioneer Press prefers JPEG or PDF files, although other formats are accepted. It is important to note that if a photo is used, it must be used for both days if the obituary is scheduled to run for multiple days to qualify for the discounted rate.

Verifying the Death and Adhering to Policies

To ensure the accuracy and integrity of the published information, the Pioneer Press requires verification of the death. This can be accomplished by providing the name and phone number of the funeral home or cremation society handling the arrangements. The newspaper will contact the funeral home or cremation society during their business hours to confirm the details.

In the event that the deceased's body has been donated to the University of Minnesota Anatomy Bequest Program or a similar program, the phone number of the organization is required for verification purposes.

The Pioneer Press also has specific policies regarding the inclusion of guestbooks or references to other media sources. While the newspaper may allow the placement of a website for a funeral home or a family email for contact, they do not permit the inclusion of guestbooks or obituaries published elsewhere. This ensures a consistent and controlled presentation of the information.

The Obituary Submission and Review Process

Once the necessary information has been gathered, individuals can submit the obituary to the Pioneer Press. The newspaper will then provide a proof for review prior to publication in the newspaper. This proof will include the scheduled run dates, as well as the associated costs.

It is crucial that individuals review the proof carefully and notify the newspaper of any errors or changes before the obituary is published. After the notice has been published, the Pioneer Press will not be responsible for any errors that may have occurred after the final proofing process.

Online Presence and Guestbook Considerations

All obituaries published in the Pioneer Press will also appear on the newspaper's website, TwinCities.com, with a permanent online guestbook. If the individual wishes to have the online presence removed, they can contact the newspaper's obituary desk to request the removal of the guestbook.

Additionally, any changes to the online obituary can be handled through the obituary desk, allowing for updates and corrections as needed.

Payment Procedures and Rates

The Pioneer Press requires pre-payment 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 2 for the first 10 lines, with an additional charge of .20 per line after the first 10. If the obituary is under 10 lines, the minimum rate of 2 will still apply. For a second run date, the lines are charged at a discounted rate of .20 per line, starting with the first line.

Additionally, each photo published in the obituary is subject to a 5 charge per day. For example, if two photos are used over the course of two days, the total photo charge would be 0.

Deadlines and Submission Timelines

The Pioneer Press has specific deadlines for the submission of obituary content, payments, and photos. These deadlines vary depending on the desired publication date, with different cutoff times for weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

It is crucial to adhere to these deadlines to ensure the timely publication of the obituary. Failure to meet the deadlines may result in the notice being delayed or not published on the requested date.

Memoriam Submissions

Unlike an obituary, a memoriam is a remembrance of a loved one who has passed away. The rates and submission process for a memoriam differ from those for an obituary. Individuals interested in placing a memoriam can contact the Pioneer Press for more information.

The newspaper's obituary desk is available to provide further assistance and answer any questions regarding the obituary or memoriam process. Individuals can reach the desk at 651-228-5263 during the specified business hours.