Finding Obituaries: Tips For Deseret News & More
Hey everyone! Today, we're diving into a topic that, while sensitive, is incredibly important: finding obituaries. Whether you're searching for a loved one, researching family history, or just curious, knowing where and how to look is key. We'll explore resources like the Deseret News, Lake Tribune, and other helpful avenues. Let's get started, shall we?
Understanding the Basics of Obituary Research
Alright, guys, before we jump into specific newspapers and websites, let's talk about the fundamentals. What exactly is an obituary? Simply put, it's a notice, usually published in a newspaper or online, that announces someone's death. It typically includes details about the deceased, like their name, age, date of death, and often a brief biography or highlights of their life. You might find information about surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and sometimes even a little bit about the person's personality and achievements.
Why bother reading obituaries? Well, there are a few compelling reasons. First and foremost, they're crucial for remembering and honoring the lives of those who have passed. They provide a sense of closure for families and friends and offer a glimpse into the impact the deceased had on the world. Secondly, obituaries are a goldmine for genealogical research. They can provide vital information, like maiden names, birthdates, and names of relatives, that can help you trace your family history. Think of it as a starting point for uncovering the stories of your ancestors. Finally, obituaries can be really insightful for anyone curious about the community. They often reflect the times, highlighting local events, social trends, and the values of the community. So, whether you're a seasoned genealogist, a grieving family member, or just someone interested in learning more, understanding how to find and interpret obituaries is a valuable skill. Remember that the information available can vary depending on the newspaper, the date, and the family's wishes. Some obituaries are very detailed, while others are quite brief. It all depends on the circumstances. So, always be respectful of the privacy of the families involved and remember that obituaries are a window into the lives of real people.
Where to Begin Your Search
Okay, now that we've got the basics covered, where do you actually start your search? The first place to check, and probably the most obvious, is the newspaper's website. We'll talk specifically about the Deseret News and Lake Tribune in a bit, but most major newspapers have online archives where you can search for obituaries. These archives may be free to access, or they may require a subscription, so keep that in mind. Websites like Legacy.com are also great resources. Legacy.com aggregates obituaries from a wide range of newspapers and funeral homes, making it a convenient one-stop shop for your search. Then there are genealogy websites, such as Ancestry.com and MyHeritage, which often include obituary databases as part of their services. These sites usually have powerful search tools that let you filter by name, date of death, location, and other criteria. Of course, you can't forget about social media, specifically, Facebook. Families often post obituary information there. You can also search for funeral homes in the area where the person passed away. Funeral homes often have their own websites that include obituaries, and you can sometimes find information about upcoming services. Finally, consider searching for online memorial websites. These are sites that are dedicated to remembering and celebrating the lives of people who have died. They often have tributes, photos, and other information that can be very helpful. So, before you begin, think about these resources. Your search may lead you in a variety of directions.
Diving into the Deseret News Obituary Archives
Now, let's get into the specifics, starting with the Deseret News. As a major newspaper, the Deseret News has a robust online presence, which makes searching for obituaries relatively straightforward. Generally, you can visit their website and look for a section dedicated to obituaries, death notices, or memorial services. The exact location may vary, so it might take a little bit of searching around the site. Once you find the obituary section, look for a search box or a way to browse obituaries. You can typically search by name, date of death, or even keywords related to the person's life. Sometimes, there will be advanced search options that allow you to refine your search even further. For instance, you might be able to filter by location or the date the obituary was published. Now, keep in mind that the Deseret News, like other newspapers, may have its own policies regarding the availability of its archives. Some obituaries may be free to access, while others may require a subscription or a small fee. It's a good idea to check their terms of service or FAQs for more information.
Also, it is important to remember that not all obituaries from the Deseret News are available online. This is true for a lot of newspapers. Older obituaries may only be available in print archives, which might be located at the newspaper's headquarters, at a local library, or at a historical society. If you're looking for an older obituary, you might need to visit one of these locations in person or contact them to request a search. Also, consider the publication date. Obituaries are often published shortly after a person's death, but they may not appear right away. It's best to wait a few days or even weeks after the death before starting your search. Finally, consider reaching out to the Deseret News directly if you're having trouble. Their customer service or archives department may be able to provide assistance or direct you to the right resources. So, while searching for obituaries can be a sensitive task, the Deseret News generally provides a user-friendly and comprehensive platform for finding the information you need.
Tips for Searching the Deseret News
Okay, guys, here are a few handy tips to make your Deseret News obituary search smoother. First and foremost, be as specific as possible with your search terms. Use the full name of the deceased if you know it, and try including middle names or initials. This will help narrow down the results and ensure you're finding the right person. If you only know a nickname, try searching for the formal name as well. Sometimes, the obituary will list both. Also, try searching for variations of the name, like common misspellings. It is easy to make a typo, and the obituary may have one as well. If you have the date of death, use that to narrow your search. Even if you only have an approximate date, that can be a big help. The same goes for the location. If you know where the person lived or passed away, include that information in your search. You can also try searching by keywords related to the person's life. Think about their profession, hobbies, or any organizations they were involved in. This can be particularly useful if you don't know the exact name or date of death.
Remember to check both the Deseret News website and other online resources, like Legacy.com. Sometimes, an obituary might appear on one platform but not the other. When you find an obituary, take some time to read it carefully. Pay attention to the details, like the names of family members, the date of birth, and any other information that might be helpful. If you have trouble finding an obituary online, don't give up! Contact the Deseret News directly for assistance. Their archives or customer service department may be able to help. Finally, remember to be patient. Finding obituaries can sometimes take time, especially if you're looking for older ones. Don't get discouraged if you don't find what you're looking for right away.
Exploring the Lake Tribune and Other Local Resources
Alright, let's shift gears and talk about the Lake Tribune, and then some other local resources you might find useful. The Lake Tribune, like the Deseret News, is a significant source of obituaries. Start by visiting their website and looking for a dedicated obituary section. The process for searching should be similar to what we discussed for the Deseret News, using search boxes, date filters, and possibly advanced search options. Again, keep in mind that the availability of obituaries online may depend on the newspaper's policies, so check for any subscription requirements or fees. If you're having trouble finding an obituary online, don't hesitate to reach out to the Lake Tribune directly. Contact information for customer service or their archives department should be available on their website.
Now, beyond the Lake Tribune and Deseret News, there are other local resources that can be helpful in your search. Local libraries are often an excellent place to start. Many libraries have newspaper archives, both physical and digital, and they may offer free access to these resources. Also, local historical societies can be invaluable. These societies often collect and preserve local records, including obituaries, and they may have indexes or databases that can help you locate what you're looking for. In addition, consider checking funeral home websites in the area where the person passed away. Funeral homes often post obituaries on their websites, providing details about the deceased and service arrangements. Another great resource is the Utah Genealogical Society. This group has a ton of information, resources, and connections that can assist you in your family history research and obituary searches. They may also have their own obituary databases or access to other archives. Therefore, consider these additional resources in your search, since the more search avenues you use, the better your chances of success.
Beyond Newspapers: Alternative Sources
Okay, let's think outside the box a bit. What other resources can you use to find obituaries, besides newspapers? Funeral homes are a critical source, as we've already mentioned. They work directly with families to handle funeral arrangements, so they almost always have a record of the deceased. Funeral home websites often have obituaries, as do other memorial services. Make sure you check them. Genealogy websites, like Ancestry.com and MyHeritage, are loaded with obituary records. These sites let you search by name, date, and location, and they may have advanced search features. You might also find obituaries on online memorial websites, which are dedicated to honoring the lives of the deceased. These websites often include tributes, photos, and information about the person's life. Then there is social media. Sometimes, families will post obituary information on Facebook or other social media platforms. You can try searching by the person's name on these sites, or you can check for memorial pages or groups. In the event you are researching an older obituary, and you have exhausted all online resources, then consider the local libraries, historical societies, and other archives. If you are looking for military records, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) may be able to help. They maintain records of military personnel, including death records. This is helpful if you know that the deceased was in the military.
Tips for Effective Obituary Search
Alright, let's consolidate some of the best tips for conducting a successful obituary search. First of all, start with the basics. Have as much information as possible about the person you're searching for. The full name, date of birth, date of death, and location are essential. If you have them, it will help your search immensely. Use multiple search terms and variations of the name. Try different spellings, nicknames, and initials. Cast a wide net. Don't limit yourself to one website or resource. Check out the Deseret News, Lake Tribune, Legacy.com, genealogy websites, and other online and offline sources. Be patient, as finding obituaries can take time. It may take days, weeks, or even longer, especially if you're looking for older ones. Don't get discouraged if you don't find what you're looking for right away. Keep trying. Refine your search as you go. If you're not getting any results, try narrowing or broadening your search terms. Consider reaching out to the newspaper directly if you're having trouble. They may be able to provide assistance or direct you to the right resources.
Respect and Sensitivity
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, remember to approach your search with respect and sensitivity. Obituaries are about real people and their lives. Be mindful of the families and the emotions involved. Approach them with empathy and treat the information you find with care. Avoid sharing personal information without the family's permission, and remember that privacy is important. Be sure to consider that obituaries are often the last public record of a person's life, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. It can be a very emotional experience. Take care and be gentle with yourself.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Information
There you have it, guys. We've covered the basics of finding obituaries, with a focus on resources like the Deseret News and Lake Tribune. Remember to be thorough, patient, and respectful throughout the process. Good luck with your search, and I hope this helps you find the information you're looking for! If you have any further questions or tips, drop them in the comments below. Take care!
