Preparing Your End Of Life Checklist

Planning a cremation involves a host of tasks: filing permits, certificates, and other important documents; transportation to and from the cremation facility; and a thousand small details that need coordination. Managing cremation services while grieving is difficult, and we recommend planning ahead when possible.

Use this death checklist to keep track of everything you need to ensure your loved one's services are carried out with dignity and respect.

Make Decisions

Create a detailed end-of-life plan by considering:

  • What type of service you'd like
  • How the remains will be cared for or stored
  • How you want people to pay tribute (flowers or charitable donations)
  • Who will care for any pets
  • Who will speak at the memorial service

Important Documents Checklist

Prepare important information and documents, including:

  • Who should be notified of the death
  • Name of the executor of the will
  • Information for safe deposit boxes or other physical assets
  • Information for bank and retirement accounts, credit cards, insurance policies, and other accounts that require notification
  • Contact information for newspaper subscriptions, telephone services, and other utilities that require cancellation
  • Notes or an outline for the obituary
  • Documents preparing the appropriate powers of attorney, if necessary

Running through your checklist when someone dies helps you focus on the next steps. Once you've prepared all the necessary documents, it's a good idea to back them up in a place that is safe from a fire, flood, or other natural disaster — such as online.

Planning end-of-life services now pays off in the future, allowing families to follow the cremation plan with confidence, knowing that their loved ones' final wishes are being respected. Give your family the peace of mind that comes with knowing your plans are made and final wishes outlined.

Call 503-402-2578 for more information on planning a cremation ahead of time or for a recent death.

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"I cannot over stress the importance of pre-planning one's end of life arrangements. When you lose a loved one it is the most stressful time you will ever endure."
Diana G, Beaverton,OR

"It was so nice to not have to deal with all the arrangements."
Debbie F, Vancouver, WA

"They worked with us from start to finish. Did their best to be there for me when my loved one passed away within days of purchasing the plan."
Chris W, Lakebay, WA

"They handled everything from start to finish in a timely fashion. Takes the worry and stress out of a difficult situation."
Alan Y, Renton, WA

"Very professional and caring! I would highly recommend this service for anyone looking into cremation! Made a sad time a little more bearable."
Chrissy P, Banning, CA

"I would like to thank you very much for helping me through this difficult time – you were very nice and I would have not been able to deal with the cremation without you. "
Lynn K, Port Orford, OR

"I hope it will be years and years before we actually use this service but it feels great not to have to worry about it anymore."
Sue K, Carlsbad, CA
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"I cannot over stress the importance of pre-planning one's end of life arrangements. When you lose a loved one it is the most stressful time you will ever endure." – Diana G.

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