Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home Obituaries

Introducing Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Located at 1315 W. Washington St., West Bend, WI, 53095, Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home has been a pillar of the community for generations, providing exceptional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for compassionate care, professionalism, and attention to detail.

A History of Service and Tradition

Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home's story began many years ago, when two dedicated funeral directors, Myrhum and Patten, came together to create a funeral home that would serve the people of West Bend and surrounding areas with dignity and respect. Over the years, the funeral home has remained family-owned and operated, with a continued focus on providing personalized services that cater to the unique needs of each family they serve.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Edward "Ed" Huettner - January 09, 1936 - March 13, 2022

Departed: 03/13/2022 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Cynthia "Cindy" Klapka - October 07, 1967 - February 13, 2022

Departed: 02/13/2022 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Beverly Diane Cowen - July 28, 1948 - February 09, 2022

Departed: 02/09/2022 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Karin Breuer - May 14, 1952 - January 08, 2022

Departed: 01/08/2022 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Paul A. Hartmann - January 29, 1938 - November 16, 2021

Departed: 11/16/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Wesley E. Groth - November 20, 1943 - August 25, 2021

Departed: 08/25/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Roman "Romy" Roskopf - January 19, 1931 - June 19, 2021

Departed: 06/19/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Saverio "Sam" DeStefano Jr. - November 12, 1942 - March 28, 2021

Departed: 03/28/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Walter W. Frey - June 04, 1944 - March 11, 2021

Departed: 03/11/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Rose Marie Weninger - November 17, 1935 - February 28, 2021

Departed: 02/28/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Linda L. Frey - November 27, 1963 - January 15, 2021

Departed: 01/15/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Dolores R. Lotz - February 25, 1930 - January 10, 2021

Departed: 01/10/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Arlan A. Machmueller - February 13, 1930 - January 02, 2021

Departed: 01/02/2021 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Frederick "Fred" Zingsheim - February 28, 1942 - April 22, 2020

Departed: 04/22/2020 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Arthur A. Derge - November 17, 1942 - April 19, 2020

Departed: 04/19/2020 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Lorraine Marie Small - March 11, 1928 - February 28, 2020

Departed: 02/28/2020 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Roland Richard Justman - April 07, 1921 - October 13, 2019

Departed: 10/13/2019 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Elizabeth "Betty Ann" A. Roskopf - April 23, 1933 - August 31, 2019

Departed: 08/31/2019 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: On Saturday morning, August 31, 2019, Elizabeth “Betty Ann” Roskopf passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter, Patricia and Gerald Kohn, with her family at her side at the age of 86.

Betty Ann was born on April 23, 1933 to James Heagney and Margaret Snyder Heagney in Milwaukee. Upon graduation from Divine Savior High School in 1951 she met the love of her life, Roman Roskopf. They were united in marriage on January 19, 1952, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Menomonee Falls. Betty Ann and Roman owned and operated Romy’s Restaurant in Menomonee Falls, Roskopf Ford-Mercury of Mayville, and also farmed in the town of Herman. Betty Ann loved quilting, crafts, and enjoyed winters in Zephyrhills, Florida.

During her 67 year marriage to Roman, Betty Ann and Roman raised six children, Daniel, Deborah, Jean, James, Margaret, and Patricia.

Betty Ann is survived by her husband, Roman; six children, Daniel (Marsha) Roskopf, Deborah (Don) Wellnitz, Jean (David) Pieper, James (Gail) Roskopf, Margaret (Patrick) Schalinski, and Patricia (Gerald) Kohn; 15 grandchildren, Nickolas (Katey) Roskopf, Jacob (Krista) Roskopf, Eric (Alexandria) Roskopf, Adam Wellnitz, Anne Wellnitz, Zachary Pieper, Jennifer Pieper (Justin Bouchonville), Elizabeth (Marcus) Berenz, Ben (Stephanie) Roskopf, Samantha Roskopf, Michael Schalinski (Shantel Magner), Sarah Schalinski, Kelly Kohn (John White), Katherine (Jon) Siegler, and Caroline Kohn (Tyler Sterr); 9 great-grandchildren, Tessa, Henry, Isla, Aiden, Hadley, Genevieve, Griffin, Connor, and Lennon; a brother, Michael (Mary) Heagney; her in-laws, Anthony (Diane) Roskopf, Willard (Dolores) Roskopf, Mary Ann (Ralph) Krumbiegel, Charles Roskopf, and Dorothy Roskopf; other relatives and friends.

Betty Ann was preceded in death by her parents, James and Margaret Heagney; a brother, Tom and his wife, Arlene Heagney; two brothers-in-law, Louis Roskopf Jr. and Richard Roskopf; and three sisters-in-law, Florence Neureuther, Gertrude Stuettgen, and Judy Roskopf.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Noon on Friday, September 6, 2019, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 302 S. German Street, in Mayville. Rev. Thomas Biersack will officiate and burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Mayville.

Betty Ann’s family will greet relative and friends at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.

The Myrhum Patten Miller and Kietzer Funeral Homes have been entrusted with Betty Ann’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

Randall William Pritchard - June 22, 1960 - August 17, 2019

Departed: 08/17/2019 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Randall W. Pritchard, 59, of Mayville, passed away at his home on Saturday, August 17, 2019.

Randall was born on June 22, 1960, the son of the late Robert Sr. and Betty (nee Rahn) Pritchard. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, pool, trap shooting, and going on scenic drives.

Those Randall leaves behind to cherish his memory include his two sons, Matt (Jessica) Pritchard and Tyler (Chelsea) Pritchard; three grandchildren, Rylee, Teagan, and Allie; his siblings, Robert Pritchard, Roxann Pritchard, Ron Pritchard, Rossco Rahn, Ray Rahn, Donna Finke, Diane Schalinski, Dan Backhaus, Darwin Backhaus, and Dean Backhaus; his second father, Ed Backhaus; other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Randall was preceded in death by his second mother, Janice Backhaus.

A visitation for Randall will be held on Friday, August 23, 2019, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Home, 15 South Walnut Street, in Mayville.

The Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Homes have been entrusted with Randall’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

Carl N. Tighe - September 23, 1939 - July 12, 2019

Departed: 07/12/2019 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Carl N. Tighe, 801 Dayton Street, Mayville, was called home to his Lord and Savior on July 12, 2019, at Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac after a brief battle with bone cancer.

Carl was born September 23, 1939, in LeRoy to Walter and Elizabeth (Stadler) Tighe. He attended St. Andrews Catholic School and Mayville High School graduating in 1959.

Carlie began his working career as a roofer with his father and later years his brothers “Pat” and brother Jerry and lastly his brother Ken Tighe and brother-in-law, Max Strasser.

He proudly served his country in the Army Reserves from 1959 through the Berlin Crisis. Later he ran the Breeze Inn Bar between Mayville and Theresa and after that the Breeze Inn in Mayville. He became the co-owner of Woods Bridge on Lake Sinissippi and in 1986 bought The Pub Supper Club in Mayville.

In 1990 he married his best friend and partner Luanne Margelofsky Muche. Together they ran The Pub until their retirement in 2007.

Carlie touched the lives of many people and made lifelong friends during the years he ran his businesses. He will be remembered for always having a smile on his face, making the best Old Fashioned, and lending an attentive ear to your problems and joys. He was always willing to lend a helping hand when needed. Carlie was an avid Badger and Packer fan (even in the bad years) also a fan of stock car racing where he supported his nephews, Sam Strasser, Pat Tighe, and Mike Tighe in their hobby. He also enjoyed playing cards, going to the Casino and trying to beat his granddaughter, Mataya in cribbage.

Those Carlie leaves behind to mourn his loss and cherish his memory is his loving wife, Luanne; step-daughters, Janell (Bret) Loescher of Watertown, JoAnn (Scott Locks) Reed of Lomira; step-daughter-in-law, Michelle Muche Trombley and her husband Todd; grandchildren, Jordan Muche, Gavin, Miles and Grace Loescher and his little “princess” Mataya Reed; mother-in-law, Verda Margelofsky; sisters, Phyllis Strasser, Patsy Rusch and Georgene (Dan) Kohli; sisters and brothers-in-law, Betty Tighe, Sue Tighe, Dick and Karen Spiering, Merle and Lorraine Margelofsky, Larry and Cindy Margelofsky, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews relatives and friends.

Those awaiting Carlie in heaven are his parents, Walter and Elizabeth; step-son, Joel Muche; sisters and brothers, Sebastian “Pat”(Esther) Tighe, Irene (Frank) Youngbeck, Maxine Tighe, Alice (Melvin) Guse, Jerry Tighe, and Ken Tighe; brothers-in-law, Max Strasser and Freeland Rusch; and father-in-law, Elmer Margelofsky.

Carlie was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mayville as well as the Mayville American Legion.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Carlie will be held on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 112 S German Street, in Mayville with Rev. Tom Biersack officiating. Burial of Carlie’s cremated remains will be held at a later date at Graceland Cemetery.

The family will greet friends and family at the church on Tuesday, July 16, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.

The Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Homes have been entrusted with Carlie’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

Elaine Mary Vilter - December 30, 1931 - July 07, 2019

Departed: 07/07/2019 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Elaine Mary Vilter (Gebhardt), age 87 years, of Mayville, formerly of Wausau was called home to be with the Lord on July 7th, 2019 at Prairie Ridge in Mayville surrounded by her loving family.

Elaine was born on December 30, 1931  in Cortland, New York to Robert and Evelyn (Berens) Gebhardt.  She was united in marriage to George Ralph Vilter on June 14, 1952 in Wausau.

Elaine graduated from Wausau High School June 7, 1951. She raised two boys, Thomas and Terry.  In 1955, George and Elaine bought a dairy farm outside of Wausau.  The family owned and operated the farm.  George worked as a machine operator at James River Corporation for 37 years until he retired in 1989.  Elaine started at Marathon Cheese in 1980 and continued to work there until she retired in 1993, when George passed away.

Elaine was an avid gardener; growing vegetables, flowers, you name it she grew it.  She enjoyed crafts such as sewing, needle point, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and made quilts and clothing for all of her loved ones.  Elaine loved her pets, she had a number of dogs over the years, and more recently cats, Fluff and Shelby.

Those Elaine leaves behind to cherish her memory include her two sons, Thomas Vilter and Terry Vilter; five grandchildren, Raylynn, Tiffany, Kimberly, Alan and Crystal; brother, Richard (Julie) Gebhardt; sister, Marie (Darrell) Cater, and sister-in-law, Patricia Gebhardt.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and neighbors.

In addition to her parents and her husband, George; Elaine was preceded in death by her two brothers, Robert (Joan) Gebhardt and Joseph Gebhardt; three brothers-in-law, and two sisters-in-law.

Graveside Service for Elaine will be held at 11 am on Friday, July 19, 2019 at Merrill Memorial Park (201 Memorial Dr. – Merrill, WI  54452).

Memorials to Dodge County Humane Society preferred.

Elaine’s family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Praire Ridge Assisted Living in Mayville & Generations Home Care and Hospice for the loving care they provided.

The Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Home of Mayville has been entrusted with Elaine’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

Kenneth V. Fezatt - June 27, 1928 - February 21, 2019

Departed: 02/21/2019 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth V. “Ken” Fezatt, age 90 years, of Theresa, formerly of Port Washington passed away on February 21, 2019 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Ken was born on June 27, 1928 in Iron Mountain, Michigan to Victor and Julia Fezatt.  He was united in marriage on September 2, 1950 to Margaret “Mic” Calcari in Iron Mountain, Michigan.

Ken served in the United States Army from 1952 – 1954.  He was a tool and die machinist by trade.  Ken was an avid hunter, fisherman, camper and outdoorsman.  He also ran the Saukville Rifle and Pistol Club for many years.  Ken and Mic traveled around the United States, Canada and Mexico extensively in their retirement.

Those Ken leaves behind to cherish his memory include his wife, Mic of 68 years; his daughter, Cindy (Gary) Frank; 6 grandchildren, Shane (Jennifer) Gasser, James (Lisa) Thiel, Jami Thiel, Tracy (Michael) Moeller, Ashley (Brad) Schrauth, Jesse (Christy) Fezatt; 6 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by brother, Darrel (Bobbi) Fezatt; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his son, Gary Fezatt; sister, Jane Smith; and brother, Richard Fezatt.

At Ken’s request no formal service will be held.

Ken’s family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Agnesian Hospice for the loving care they provided.

The Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Home of Mayville has been entrusted with Ken’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

Marion A. Luebke - May 09, 1927 - December 07, 2018

Departed: 12/07/2018 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Marion Alma Luebke, 91, formally of Juneau, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Friday, December 7, 2018 at the Crossroad Care Center in Mayville.

Marion was born the daughter of Albert H. and Ida (nee Seelinger) Frei on May 9, 1927 in Green Lake County.   She married Gerald R. Luebke on December 30, 1950 in Waupun.  Marion was a graduate of Waupun High School and cosmetology school in Green Bay.  She owned and managed the Juneau Beauty Salon in Juneau.  She also worked at Bethesda Lutheran Home in Watertown and in 1967 joined the Clearview staff until her retirement in 1986.

Marion was very active in Dodge County Homemaker and was always interested in the Horicon Marsh were she wrote articles for the Goose Haven Nature Center. Marion also was a member of St John’s Lutheran Church in Juneau and the Ladies Aide and Alter Guild committee.  She enjoyed reading and was a member of Friends of Juneau public library for several years.

Marion is survived by two sons, Gerald (Janet) of Mayville and William of Beaver Dam; her granddaughter, Lisa (Nick) Halfmann of Campbellsport; her special caretaker and friend, Heidi Lichtenberg; her brother, Eugene (Joyce) Frei of Sun Prairie; half-sisters, Shirley Busse of La Habra CA and Sandra (the late John) Stafford of Dalton; a half-brother, David Frei of Campbellsport; and further survived by nephews, other relatives and friends.

Marion was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gerald in 2004; and a special niece, Bonnie (Backus) Paar in 2017.

A funeral service in remembrance of Marion will be held on Monday, December 10, 2018 at 2:00 pm at St John’s Lutheran Church (400 S. Main St. in Juneau).  Visitation will be held at the church on Monday from 1:00 pm until the time of service at 2:00 pm.  Burial will follow in Juneau City Cemetery in Juneau.

The family would like to thank the staff at Crossroads Care Center for all their care given over the past years and the staff of Compassus Hospice.

Myrhum Patten Miller and Kietzer Funeral & Cremation Service of Mayville has been entrusted with Marion’s arrangements.  Online guest book and condolences may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

Ferdinand "Fred" Andes - January 22, 1932 - August 22, 2018

Departed: 08/22/2018 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Ferdinand “Fred” Andes, 86, of Slinger, passed away on Wednesday, August 22, 2018, at his home.

Fred was born on January 22, 1932, in Yugoslavia, the son of the late Johann and Sophie (nee Heppenstiel). He departed from Bremerhaven, Germany and arrived in New York in 1952 and taught himself the English language. Upon arriving in the U.S. Fred lived in multiple places at first but settled down in Milwaukee and eventually moved to Slinger with his family in 1964 where he lived the remainder of his life. Fred spent his working years as a union painter and also had a love for animals and a farm to care for them all.  He was still able to care for his coop full of chickens up until his final day. Watching his grandchildren enjoying his pool and yard and taking them on golf cart rides when they were younger were happy times for him. Some of his favorite times were spent dancing with Marie and enjoying the company of their friends. He had an amazing green thumb, there was no plant he couldn’t grow or bring back to life after others had failed.  He instilled in his sons a strong work ethic and the value of a hard day’s work.  Fred experienced physical hardships during the final years of his life, however, only those closest to him knew the pain he felt and through it all he remained amazingly active.  He had an incredible strength and endurance that you don’t often see.

Those Fred leaves behind to cherish his memory include his three sons, John (special friend Judy Leek) Andes, Ronald Andes, and Jeffrey (Janine) Andes; seven grandchildren, Megan, Samantha, Caleb, Colby, Sophie, Kylie, and Johnny; his long time dear friend of 24 years, Marie Koepke; a brother, Johann (Darlene) Andes; a sister, Anneliese Johnson; a sister-in-law, Monika Andes; nephew, Todd (Loree) Andes; niece, Andrea (Quinn) Andes Spilsbury; and other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by a brother, Adolf Andes and a sister, Rosemarie Andes.

Fred’s family will greet relatives and friends at the Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home, 15 S. Walnut Street, in Mayville from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 1, 2018. A graveside service will follow the visitation at Graceland Cemetery in Mayville. The Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Home has been entrusted with Fred’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com

View Full Obituary

Jamy Marie Rojas - January 05, 1965 - August 19, 2018

Departed: 08/19/2018 (Mayville)

Obituary Preview: Jamy M. Rojas, 53, of West Bend, passed away on Sunday, August 19, 2018, at Kathy Hospice in the town of Polk, after a courageous two and a half year battle with cancer.

Jamy was born on January 5, 1965, in Hustisford, the daughter of James and Alice (nee Ondrejka) Boerst. She was united in marriage to Ivan Rojas in 2013 in West Bend. Jamy was a Mayville High School graduate, class of 1983. She was employed at Beatrice Cheese from 1983 to 2000 and then was employed at Aurora Health Care from 2000 to 2017. Jamy enjoyed her grandchildren, cooking, and her cats. She loved to entertain and host get-togethers with family and friends and were well fed when they all went to her house.

Those Jamy leaves behind to cherish her memory include her husband, Ivan; three children, Kristi Lindert of Mayville, Dustin (Kristin) Lindert of Mequon, and Ivan “Junior” Rojas of West Bend; five grandchildren, Natalie, Jaevin, Jerrick, Micah, and Jorden; her mother, Alice Boerst of Mayville; a brother, Tim Boerst of Theresa; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Jamy was preceded in death by her father, James Boerst on November 17, 1996, and her nephew, James Boerst on July 20, 2018; aunts, uncles, and other relatives.

A private graveside service for Jamy will be held at a later date at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Mayville.

Memorials to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mayville or to the Dodge County Humane Society is appreciated.

The Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Homes have been entrusted with Jamy’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book may be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.

View Full Obituary

12345

A Team of Dedicated Professionals

The team at Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home is comprised of experienced funeral directors, embalmers, and support staff who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and guidance to families during one of the most difficult times in their lives. From pre-planning consultations to final farewells, the staff at Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home is committed to ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to, allowing families to focus on celebrating the life of their loved one.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home, no two funerals are alike. The team understands that every individual is unique, and that their farewell should reflect their personality, interests, and accomplishments. From traditional religious services to non-traditional celebrations of life, Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home offers a wide range of options to suit every family's needs and preferences.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where families can gather to pay their respects and celebrate the life of their loved one. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while smaller rooms provide an intimate setting for more private services. Additional amenities include a reception area for post-service gatherings, as well as ample parking and handicap accessibility.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home believes that pre-planning is an essential part of ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family's needs are met. The funeral home offers complimentary pre-planning consultations, where families can discuss their preferences and make arrangements in advance. This thoughtful approach allows families to focus on celebrating their loved one's life, rather than worrying about the details of the funeral service.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional burial services, Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home also offers cremation services for those who prefer this option. The funeral home's crematory is located on-site, ensuring that every aspect of the cremation process is handled with dignity and respect. Families can choose from a range of cremation options, including direct cremation, memorial services, and scattering ceremonies.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one is never easy, but Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home recognizes that grief is a journey that extends far beyond the funeral service. To support families in their time of need, the funeral home offers grief counseling resources, bereavement support groups, and online tools to help navigate the grieving process. The team at Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home is committed to being there for families every step of the way.

A Commitment to Excellence

Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home is dedicated to providing exceptional service to every family they serve. The funeral home's commitment to excellence is reflected in their membership with professional organizations such as the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and the Wisconsin Funeral Directors Association (WFDA). By staying up-to-date with industry developments and best practices, the team at Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home ensures that families receive the highest level of care and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online, or in a funeral program to inform friends, family, and acquaintances of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information about their passing to those who cared about them. They can also help to notify people of funeral or memorial service arrangements, allowing them to pay their respects.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the family of the deceased or a close friend will write the obituary. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also offer assistance with writing and publishing obituaries as part of their services.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary should include the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation or notable achievements, and information about surviving family members. It may also include details about funeral or memorial services, charitable donations, or other relevant information.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform it's being published on. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.

Can I include photos or other media in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some newspapers allow you to include photos, videos, or other multimedia elements to make the obituary more personal and engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Be prepared to provide the necessary information and payment for publication.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately and in their own words. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

Is it necessary to publish an obituary in a newspaper?

No, it's not necessary to publish an obituary in a newspaper. Many people opt for online obituaries or social media announcements instead. However, publishing in a newspaper can still be an effective way to reach a wider audience.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the newspaper, online platform, or funeral home. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars for publication.

Can I edit or update an obituary after it's been published?

This depends on the publication or platform. Some may allow edits or updates, while others may not. Be sure to check with the publisher beforehand if you anticipate needing to make changes.

What's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is typically a brief announcement of someone's passing, often without additional biographical information. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Should I include humorous or lighthearted anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber and serious. Including funny stories or personality traits can help capture the essence of the person and bring comfort to those reading it.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the person's personality or spirit.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues surrounding the person's death or life, it's best to approach them with tact and compassion. Consider consulting with family members or friends before deciding what information to include.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

Drafting an obituary can be overwhelming during a difficult time. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from friends, family members, or professionals like funeral directors or writers.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

Yes, you can republish an obituary on anniversaries of the person's passing or on special occasions like birthdays. This can help keep their memory alive and continue celebrating their life.

Are online obituaries permanent records?

Most online obituaries are archived permanently and remain accessible for years to come. This allows people to find and read them even after the initial publication date.

Can I create a memorial website or page for my loved one?

Yes, many online platforms offer tools for creating memorial websites or pages where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences.

How do I deal with errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform immediately if you discover errors. They may be able to correct the mistake and reprint the corrected version.

Can I use social media to announce someone's passing?

Social media can be a convenient way to share news quickly with a large network of friends and acquaintances. Just be mindful of privacy settings and consider sharing through private groups or messaging if desired.

What role do funeral homes play in creating and publishing obituaries?

Funeral homes often assist families with writing and publishing obituaries as part of their services. They may also provide guidance on content, formatting, and submission procedures.

Can I include charitable donation information in an obituary?

Yes! Including details about charitable donations in lieu of flowers can help support causes important to the deceased and provide comfort to those grieving.

How do I ensure that my loved one's legacy lives on through their obituary?

An obituary is just one way to celebrate someone's life. Consider creating a memorial fund, planting trees in their honor, or establishing scholarships to continue their impact beyond their passing.