When Death Occurs
The overwhelming feelings of despair, disbelief, shock, and numbness caused by the passing of a loved one cannot be conveyed by mere words. Even when the death is expected, the pain that loss brings can still be devastating. In truth, no one is completely prepared for the death of someone close to their heart.
During this difficult time, there are decisions to be made immediately, arrangements to be coordinated, and a lot of things to be considered for your loved one’s final farewell. We understand how this may feel overwhelming, especially with the grief you’re feeling over the loss. Please know that we are here to help and support you.
On this page, we’ve put together helpful information to guide you through this process.
Notify Proper Authorities
If your loved one passes away while under the care of a facility — such as a nursing home or a hospital — staff from the facility will contact you and notify appropriate authorities themselves.
If your loved one had a terminal illness and dies at home, and a Notification of Home Death form was completed and signed by the physician, the funeral home can be called to remove the body. There is no need to contact the police, ambulance service or coroner's office in this situation.
In the event that no one was present at the time of death, (sudden/unexpected) you will need to contact the police before moving the deceased to another location.
Call The Funeral Home
Our caring funeral directors can assist you with your funeral arrangements. We will collect information from you in order to facilitate the transfer of your loved one’s remains to our facility. While of course you can ask any questions you have in your mind during this call, note that once you visit the funeral home, we can discuss the arrangements in greater detail.
During this call, you’ll also be informed about the things that you need to bring with you (birth certificate of the deceased, SIN of the deceased, photo of the deceased, clothing).
Feel free to call us whenever you feel the need to. Remember that we are here to listen to you, help you, and guide you during this difficult and trying time.
Call us at 250-423-7944
Obtaining Death Certificates
Cherished Memories staff are also District Registrars for BC Vital Statistics. This means that we are able to register the death and thereby issue Death Certificates to you.
During our first meeting with you, we will collect vital statistics information about the deceased. That information, along with information from the Medical Certificate of Death (issued by the attending physician/coroner) is submitted electronically to Vital Statistics. Once this process takes place, Cherished Memories is able to provide Death Certificates and Disposition Permits (necessary for cremation/burial to take place).
Death Certificates are important when gaining access to bank accounts and safety deposit boxes, claiming for benefits due to the family (like the Veteran’s benefits or insurance claims), and transferring or selling ownership of properties.
What to Expect When You Meet With Us
During your first meeting with us, we will discuss the arrangements for your loved ones final disposition. Once it's determined whether you'd prefer burial or cremation, we will guide you through all of your options. Do you prefer a traditional funeral or memorial service, or would a celebration of life be a better option for you?
We'd like to make the process as smooth and stress-free for you as we can. Provided below is information about your loved one that we will need when we meet with you:
* Full legal name & home address, including postal code
* Social Insurance Number
* Birth Certificate or Passport if possible
* Date of birth
* Place of birth
* Marital status
* Spouse's legal name (maiden)
* Occupation
*Father's name
* Father's place of birth
* Mother's name (maiden)
* Mother's place of birth
* Is there a Will?
* Name, address & phone number of Executor
* Chosen place of burial, if applicable
* Insurance policy information, if applicable
* Photo and any clothing you'd like us to use