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. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a clear and concise overview of the steps involved in submitting an obituary to the Pioneer Press, ensuring a smooth and efficient process during this challenging time.

Honoring Your Loved One's Legacy with Dignity

Placing an obituary is a meaningful way to celebrate the life of a cherished individual and share their story with the community. The Pioneer Press is committed to guiding you through this process, ensuring that your loved one's legacy is honored with the utmost care and respect.

Gathering the Necessary Information

The first step in the obituary process is to gather the required information. This includes your full name, address, phone number, and an alternate phone number, if available. Additionally, you will need to provide the name of the deceased, the obituary text, and a photo in a JPEG or PDF format. It's important to note that TIF and other file types are also accepted, but the Pioneer Press may need to contact you if there are any issues with the photo.

Scheduling the Ad Run Dates

When placing an obituary, you have the option to run it for multiple days. There is a discount available for running the ad for more than one day, but this must be scheduled on the first run date to apply. If a photo is used, it must be used for both days for the discount to apply. The Pioneer Press team is available to provide more information on the pricing and scheduling options.

Verifying the Death

In order to publish an obituary, the Pioneer Press 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. The Pioneer Press will contact the funeral home or cremation society during their business hours to verify the death. Alternatively, a death certificate can also be used for this purpose.

Navigating the Guestbook and Outside Websites

The Pioneer Press does not allow references to other media sources with a guestbook or an obituary placed elsewhere when placing an obituary in print and online. However, you can include a website for the funeral home or a family email for contact purposes. If you wish to have the online presence removed, you can contact the Pioneer Press to remove the guestbook.

Reviewing the Proof and Finalizing the Obituary

Once your submission is complete, the Pioneer Press will provide a proof for your review prior to publication in the newspaper. This proof will include the price and the days the notice is scheduled to appear. It's crucial to review the proof carefully and notify the Pioneer Press of any errors or changes before the notice appears in the Pioneer Press, based on each day's deadlines. After publication, the Pioneer Press will not be responsible for any errors that may occur after the final proofing.

Exploring the Online Presence

All obituaries placed with the Pioneer Press will appear on TwinCities.com with a permanent online guestbook presence. If you wish to have the online presence removed, you can contact the Pioneer Press to do so. Additionally, any changes to the online obituary can be handled through the obituary desk.

Understanding the Payment Procedure

Pre-payment is required for all obituary notices prior to publication by the specified deadline. The Pioneer Press accepts payment by credit card, electronic funds transfer (EFT), or cash at their front counter. The minimum charge for an obituary is $162 for the first 10 lines, and each additional line after the first 10 is $12.20. If the ad is under 10 lines, it will be charged the minimum rate of $162. On a second run date, the lines are $8.20 per line, starting with the first line. Additionally, each photo published is $125 per day.

Adhering to the Deadline Schedule

The Pioneer Press has a strict deadline schedule to ensure your obituary is published on the requested day. For Monday through Friday, the deadline is 4:30 PM for the next day's publication, with changes accepted until 5:00 PM. For Saturdays, the deadline is 1:30 PM for Sunday publication, with changes accepted until 2:00 PM. For Sundays, the deadline is 2:30 PM for Monday publication, with no changes accepted after that time.By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the obituary process with confidence, ensuring that your loved one's legacy is honored with the utmost care and attention to detail. The Pioneer Press team is available to assist you throughout the process and address any questions or concerns you may have.