Obituaries are public notices of someone’s death. You’ll often find them in local newspapers or online, sharing information about the person’s life, accomplishments, and details about their funeral or memorial service.
Local obituaries are important because they connect community members, giving them a way to mourn and remember together. They offer a glimpse into the lives of individuals who helped shape the local landscape.
This article focuses on Wadena obituaries, exploring their key components and why they matter to the Wadena, Minnesota, area.
Common Elements of Wadena Obituaries
Like most obituaries, the notices published in Wadena, Minnesota, tend to follow a familiar pattern. Here are some of the elements you’re most likely to see.
Biographical Information
- Full name and age of the person who has died. For example: Martha Irene Aho, age 70, or Sharon Jane Van Houten, age 80.
- Date and place of death, including the name of the facility where they passed away.
- Date and place of birth.
- Key events and accomplishments in the person’s life.
Family Relationships
- Names of the person’s spouse, children, and grandchildren. For example: Sharon Jane Van Houten had 6 grandchildren.
- Names of parents and siblings.
Funeral and Memorial Service Details
- Location, date, and time of the funeral or memorial service. For example: David Gades’ funeral service will be held at St. John Lutheran Church, or Carol Rowan’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Ann’s Catholic Church.
- Information about a visitation or wake.
- The name of the cemetery or place of interment.
Unique Aspects and Personal Touches
The best obituaries do more than just list a person’s birth and death dates. They paint a picture of who that person was.
Highlighting Personality and Character
An obituary might mention the person’s hobbies, interests, and passions. They might include a story or anecdote that illustrates the person’s unique personality. For example, Ronald “Toby” Pierce was known for his witty remarks and his love of fishing.
The obituary might also include quotes or expressions that were characteristic of the person.
Acknowledging Struggles and Challenges
An obituary might mention the person’s battles with illness or adversity, such as Sharon Jane Van Houten’s eight-year struggle with dementia.
It could also highlight the person’s resilience and strength in the face of hardship.
Community Involvement and Contributions
The obituary might highlight the person’s volunteer work or community service.
It could also mention the person’s professional achievements and contributions to the local economy.
Finding and Accessing Wadena Obituaries
Looking for an obituary from Wadena, Minnesota? Here’s where you might start your search:
Local Newspapers and Publications
- The Wadena Pioneer Journal and other regional newspapers are good places to look.
- Check for obituaries both in print and online.
Online Obituary Portals and Websites
- Many funeral homes maintain websites where they post recent obituaries.
- Websites like Legacy.com compile obituaries from newspapers across the country.
Library Resources and Archives
- Local libraries sometimes have historical obituaries on file.
- You might find online archives and databases, too.
Wrapping Up
Obituaries stand as a record of a life, marking a person’s impact on their family, friends, and community.
They offer a way for grieving loved ones to express their sorrow and share cherished memories.
In the end, obituaries bring comfort and connection. They remind us of the importance of community and the value of each life lived, encouraging us to cherish our time with those around us.