Immediate Steps After a Loved One Passes: What to Do and What to Expect

Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a family can face. In the moments following a death, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, unsure of what to do next, or worried about making the “right” decisions. At Baue Funeral Homes, our role is to walk alongside you with clarity, compassion, and support — beginning with the very first call.

This guide outlines the immediate steps to take after a loved one passes, what to expect from the funeral home, and how Baue supports families throughout the entire process.

What Is the First Step When a Loved One Passes?

If your loved one is receiving hospice care, the first call should be made to the hospice organization. A hospice nurse will come to the location, officially confirm the death, and notify the funeral home on your behalf.

This step is important, as the confirmation of death allows the next arrangements to move forward smoothly. Once Baue Funeral Home is notified, our team will be ready to assist — but we will move at your pace, not ours.

What If the Death Occurs During the Night?

Death does not follow a schedule, and questions or needs can arise at any hour. Baue Funeral Home is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Whether the death occurs during the night, on a weekend, or during a holiday, you can always reach a caring professional. Our team is available to:

• Answer immediate questions
• Coordinate transportation
• Offer reassurance and guidance during those first moments

You are never alone — day or night.

Does the Funeral Home Need to Come Immediately?

No. One of the most common concerns families have is feeling rushed. At Baue, we will not arrive until you are ready.

You may wish to spend quiet time with your loved one, gather family members, or simply take a moment to breathe. We respect your wishes, your faith, and your emotional needs. When you are ready, our care team will arrive with professionalism and compassion.

How Long Does the Transfer Take After the Funeral Home Is Notified?

Once you request transfer into our care, the process typically takes less than one hour. In rare cases, it may take up to 90 minutes, depending on distance and location.

Our priority is to ensure a respectful, dignified transfer while keeping families informed every step of the way.

Who Will Come to Transfer My Loved One?

A trained member of Baue’s care team will arrive to assist you. They will:

• Introduce themselves clearly
• Explain the process before beginning
• Answer any immediate questions
• Transfer your loved one using a cot and transport vehicle

Our team is experienced, discreet, and deeply respectful of the trust placed in us.

Is Payment Required Before the Transfer?

No. Payment is not required prior to transfer.

We believe families should never feel financial pressure in the immediate hours following a loss. Our focus is on care, compassion, and support first. Financial arrangements are discussed at funeral arrangements.

Should the Funeral Home Be Contacted in Advance?

Yes we can certainly be contacted in advance and many families find this incredibly helpful.

You are always welcome to contact Baue before a death occurs, especially if a loved one is in hospice care. Calling ahead allows us to:

• Answer questions
• Gather basic information
• Prepare our team to assist when the time comes

There is no obligation, and these conversations are often a source of reassurance and peace of mind.

Should I Preplan or Prepay When Someone Is in Hospice Care?

We do encourage funeral preplanning, but timing is important. When someone enters hospice and death is imminent, processing prearrangement policies can take several weeks — which may not align with immediate needs.

That said, we are happy to:

• Schedule an appointment
• Discuss service options
• Gather preferences and details

While we always encourage families to spend meaningful time with their loved one, we understand that planning ahead can offer comfort and clarity during an emotional time.

What Happens at the Funeral Arrangement Conference?

After a loved one passes, a funeral arrangement conference will be scheduled. During this meeting, you will meet with a funeral director to:

• Choose burial or cremation services
• Provide information needed for the death certificate
• Notify Social Security
• Write and review the obituary

The meeting typically lasts 2–3 hours and is guided carefully by your funeral director.

Who Should Attend the Funeral Arrangements?

The legal next of kin is responsible for completing the arrangements and should attend the meeting. This may include:

• A spouse
• Children
• Parents
• Siblings or other relatives, if necessary

In some cases, multiple individuals may serve as next of kin. Your funeral director will help clarify this and ensure everything is handled properly.

If My Loved One Prearranged Their Funeral, Do I Still Need to Come In?

Yes. Even when funeral arrangements have been preplanned, an arrangement conference is still required.

This meeting allows us to:

• Verify the preneed contract
• Complete required paperwork
• Finalize service details

Preplanning helps lock in service costs and simplifies decision-making, but final confirmation is still an important step.

We’re Here When You Need Us

At Baue Funeral Homes, we understand that the hours and days following a loss can feel overwhelming. Our role is to provide steady guidance, honest answers, and compassionate care — from the very first call through every step that follows.

If you have questions, need immediate assistance, or would like to speak with a funeral director, we are always here for you.