When A Death Occurs
When a death occurs, the order in which things need to be done often depends on where the death occurred. But, one thing should always be remembered: your heightened emotional state upon the death of a loved one. That's why we suggest that you ask a friend for help - someone who is more able to think clearly, and give you the support you need.
While Under Supervised Care
When a death occurs in a care facility, such as a hospital or nursing home, the professional staff will notify you and the necessary authorities. If the name of the funeral home has been left with them, the institution will notify the funeral home at the time of the death. The funeral planner will contact you immediately following their notification to help you proceed. (However, we suggest you contact the funeral home immediately, so you've got the reassurance you need that all is taken care of properly.)
At Home
If the death occurs at home with family or friends present, and the person is under a physician's care, the family will want to call us directly. The doctor would provide a medical cause of death and if cremation is chosen, a cremation certificate as well.
However, if the death occurs in a residence and no one is there at the time of death, the police will need to be notified and respond to the residence. The deceased is then relocated from their home to the coroner for determining the medical cause of death.
If in any case you are not sure of who to notify or what to do, you may call (612) 9888 6222, and we'll assist you in notifying the proper agencies.
Widening the Circle
Our staff members are experienced professionals who can provide much of the information you need, emotional support and compassionate guidance.
While you may ask us any questions at this time, you will be able to discuss the arrangements in detail later when you meet us in person. During the initial call we will gather information to transfer your loved into our care.
We may ask you several questions, including whether your loved one made any pre-arrangements. We will then schedule a date and time for you to meet at our office and let you know what you should bring with you.
what to expect when you meet with a funeral planner
One of the first things our funeral planner will do is to guide you through the entire arrangement process, explaining how you can create a memorable personal celebration of your loved one's life. This is not a one-way conversation; we want to hear your ideas and desires, and use them as the foundation for the arrangement process.
This process may include:
- Preparing and filing the official death certificate
- Scheduling the location, date and time of services or events
- Selecting a casket, coffin, urn or other items
- Preparing an obituary notice
- Scheduling vehicles
You may also sign necessary authorisations or make arrangements to have them signed by the appropriate family members.
We’d like you to bring any photos, a favourite song, or memorabilia so that you and your funeral planner can better discuss how you would like your loved one to be remembered. Having these things, and knowing their favourite song or favourite gathering place – even their favourite activity – will help us create a truly fitting funeral or memorial service.
The following checklist will help you remember what information about the decedent and items will be needed when meeting with a funeral arranger.
- Full legal name
- Home address
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Father's name
- Mother's maiden name
- Recent Photograph
- Occupation
- Place of burial (if applicable)
- Clothing
- Next of Kin name and phone number
- Insurance policies (if applicable)
A staff member of Galaxy Funerals will be honoured to explain all of the options available to you.