The Ultimate Guide to Finding Post-Crescent Obituaries: A Comprehensive Resource

Introduction

Obituaries, often published in local newspapers like The Post-Crescent, serve as a poignant reminder of the individuals who have passed away and a testament to the lives they lived. These records provide valuable genealogical information, historical context, and insights into local communities. This comprehensive guide will empower you to navigate The Post-Crescent obituaries with ease, whether you're seeking ancestry details or simply want to honor the memory of a loved one.

Understanding The Post-Crescent Obituaries

The Post-Crescent, based in Appleton, Wisconsin, has been publishing obituaries since its inception in 1878. These obituaries can be categorized into two primary types:

1. Paid Obituaries: These obituaries are placed by family members or funeral homes on behalf of the deceased. They often include detailed information about the individual's life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.
2. Unpaid Obituaries: These obituaries are typically submitted by funeral homes and contain basic information such as the deceased's name, date of death, and funeral arrangements.

Table 1: Key Information in a Post-Crescent Obituary

Navigating The Post-Crescent Obituaries Online

The Post-Crescent obituaries are accessible both in print and online. To search the online database:

1. Visit The Post-Crescent's website: https://www.postcrescent.com/
2. Click on the "Obituaries" tab in the header menu.
3. Use the search bar to enter the deceased's name or keywords.
4. Filter the results by date, publication, or other criteria as needed.

Strategies for Effective Obituary Research

To maximize the effectiveness of your obituary research, consider the following strategies:

• Start with Basic Information: When initiating a search, gather as much information as possible about the deceased, including their full name, dates of birth and death, and any known relatives or locations.
• Expand Your Search: If you can't find an obituary immediately, try searching for variations of the deceased's name, different spellings, and nearby towns or counties.
• Utilize Genealogy Resources: Websites like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org can be invaluable for locating obituaries and linking them to family trees.
• Contact Funeral Homes: Funeral homes often have copies of obituaries for individuals they've served. Don't hesitate to reach out and inquire about the availability of an obituary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid potential pitfalls in your obituary research, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Assuming Obituaries Are Always Published: Not all deaths are accompanied by an obituary. Factors such as the family's wishes or the deceased's lack of connection to the community may influence whether an obituary is published.
• Relying Solely on Online Databases: While online databases are convenient, they may not contain all obituaries, especially those from earlier years. Consider checking print archives or contacting the newspaper directly for more comprehensive records.
• Missing Variations of Names: Deceased individuals may have gone by different names or nicknames at various points in their lives, so be sure to explore different spellings and aliases.

How to Find Obituaries in Print

If you prefer to access obituaries in print, you can:

1. Visit the Local Library: Most libraries maintain archives of local newspapers, including The Post-Crescent.
2. Purchase Back Issues: If a specific obituary is unavailable in print at your local library, you may be able to purchase back issues of The Post-Crescent.
3. Check Historical Societies: Local historical societies often have collections of old newspapers, including obituaries.

Table 2: Newspaper Archives for The Post-Crescent Obituaries

FAQs

1. How far back do The Post-Crescent obituaries go online?

• Online obituaries are typically available for the past 30-90 days.

2. Can I request a copy of an obituary from The Post-Crescent?

• Yes, you can contact The Post-Crescent at (920) 993-1000 to inquire about obtaining a copy of an obituary.

3. What should I do if I can't find an obituary anywhere?

• Submit a request to The Post-Crescent's obituary department or consider reaching out to local funeral homes or genealogy resources for assistance.

4. Can I publish an obituary in The Post-Crescent?

• Yes, you can submit an obituary for publication by contacting The Post-Crescent's obituary department. There may be fees associated with placing a paid obituary.

5. How can I ensure the accuracy of an obituary?

• Carefully review the obituary before submitting it for publication. Consider seeking input from family members or friends who knew the deceased well.

6. What is an In-Memoriam obituary?

• An In-Memoriam obituary commemorates an individual who passed away at an earlier date, often on the anniversary of their death or at a significant milestone.

Table 3: Cost of Placing an Obituary in The Post-Crescent

Conclusion

The Post-Crescent obituaries offer a rich source of information for those seeking to honor their loved ones, connect with their ancestry, or delve into local history. By understanding the nuances of these records, utilizing effective search strategies, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can successfully navigate The Post-Crescent obituaries and gain valuable insights into the lives and legacies of the individuals they represent.