When Death Occurs

Unanticipated death at home or elsewhere

In these situations, you should immediately contact 911. Police and emergency medical personnel will then determine the appropriate steps to take. Generally, the authorities can release the remains directly to our home, so that preparations may begin. In some situations, however, the remains may need to be taken to a local hospital or the Medical Examiner’s office. The Medical Examines becomes involved when the cause of death is undetermined or may not yet be known.

If death occurs in an Institution

Should the death occur at a hospital or care home, the medical staff should handle all necessary legal steps. You simply need to inform the staff that Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel is handling the arrangements. You will generally have to complete any legal release paperwork at that facility.

Anticipated death at home

Today, many people with terminal illnesses are more comfortable at home under the care of Hospice in the final stages of their illness. In this situation, you should inform Hospice that Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel is the funeral home of your choice. Hospice will then supervise the necessary legal requirements. Often, when someone is faced with a terminal illness, the family will decide to make arrangements in advance, “A Pre-Need Funeral”; saving them the time and emotional decisions needed at the time of death.

Death out-of-state

If the death occurs out of state, you should call Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel at (630) 889-1700. We can then coordinate the transfer with a local funeral director at the place of death. Because we are members of several national organizations, we can often save families time and money by making all necessary arrangements.

This is a basic explanation of your options in certain circumstances. If you would like further information, please feel free to call us. We are here to help and to serve you, and we will be happy to answer any questions that you might have.