What to Do When A Death Occurs

Rupp Funeral Home, Inc. understands that death creates a confusing and difficult time for a deceased's survivors. We recommend taking the following steps when a death occurs.

What You Should Do Immediately

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 the death occurred in the workplace or at home, you will need to get in touch with his/her physician or emergency medical personnel, as the cause of death must be identified and indicated in legal documents.

In the event that no one was present at the time of death, you will need to contact the police before moving the deceased to another location.

Making Calls

Call your immediate family members and friends to be with you after your loved one's death. If the deceased prearranged with Rupp Funeral Home or if Rupp Funeral Home is your choice of funeral home, call (734)241-9300. We will handle the rest. We'll respond immediately to transport your loved one into our care and arrange for an appointment for you to come in and meet with one of our caring directors. 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 like the clothes your deceased loved one will use for the burial. 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.

What You Should Do Within the First Few Days

Here at Rupp Funeral Home our staff wants to make this as easy on you as possible. We will notify Social Security office on your behalf. During the funeral arrangements, our director will help you decide how many certified copies of the death certificate you should need ordered depending on the estate's complexity. Also, we will be in contact with the local newspaper about the death and include both the location of service and list any other details.

What You Should Do in the First Weeks and Months

The first few weeks after the death is time to focus on yourself and getting the deceased's affairs in order. You should cancel automatic bill payments, prescriptions, and any subscriptions. If the deceased had any credit cards, be sure to alert them of the death as well. We can assist you in contacting the life insurance company to file a death claim. Also, we can guide you in exploring eligibility for Civil Service and veteran's benefits. Most importantly take care of yourself. Seek professional help to work through the grieving process if you feel unable to cope with your loved one's passing.

Rupp Funeral Home prides itself on warmth, compassion, and care during you and your family's difficult time.