Navigating the process of placing an obituary or memoriam for a loved one can be a sensitive and important task. At Pioneer Press, we understand the significance of these announcements and are committed to providing compassionate and efficient customer service. If you need to contact Pioneer Press customer service, particularly regarding obituaries or memoriams, you’ve come to the right place. This guide provides you with the essential contact information and outlines the process for submitting your notices.
Contacting the Pioneer Press Obituary Desk
For direct assistance with placing an obituary or if you have any questions throughout the process, the Pioneer Press obituary desk is readily available to help. You can reach them via phone or email:
- Phone: 651-228-5263
- Email: [email protected]
Whether you have initial inquiries about obituary specifications, need clarification on policies, or require payment assistance, the Pioneer Press customer service team is equipped to guide you.
Essential Information for Obituary Submission
To ensure a smooth and timely submission process, please have the following information ready when you contact Pioneer Press customer service or send your initial email to [email protected]:
General Information:
- Your Full Name
- Address (City, State, Zip Code)
- Phone Number
- Alternate Phone Number (optional)
Obituary Specifications:
- Name of Deceased
- Obituary Text: Prepare the text you wish to publish.
- Photo (Optional): A JPEG or PDF file is preferred. TIF and other formats are also accepted. The team will contact you if there are any issues with your photo.
- Ad Run Dates: Specify the dates you wish the obituary to be published. Note that discounts are available for multiple-day runs, which must be scheduled on the first run date. If a photo is included, it must run for all scheduled days to qualify for the discount.
Pioneer Press Policies and Procedures
Understanding the policies of Pioneer Press will help streamline your obituary placement process. Here are key points to keep in mind:
Verification of Death:
To publish an obituary, Pioneer Press requires verification of death. Please provide the name and phone number of the funeral home or cremation society handling the arrangements. Pioneer Press will contact them during business hours to verify the death. Alternatively, a death certificate is also acceptable.
Guestbook and External Websites:
Pioneer Press does not allow references to external guestbooks or obituary listings on other media platforms within obituaries placed in print and online. However, website links for funeral homes or family email addresses for contact purposes can be included. Please consult with customer service for further clarification.
Obituary Process:
Once you submit your obituary information, Pioneer Press will send you a proof via fax or email for your review before publication. This proof will include the total price and the scheduled publication dates. Carefully review this proof for any errors or necessary changes. Notify Pioneer Press of any corrections before the daily deadline. Pioneer Press is not responsible for errors after final proof approval and publication.
Online Obituary Changes:
For any modifications to an online obituary after publication, please contact the obituary desk directly at 651-228-5263.
Payment Information and Rates
Pre-payment is required for all obituary notices before publication. Payment must be made by the deadline specified in the schedule. You can provide your payment information after you have received and approved the proof.
Payment Methods:
- Credit Card: Accepted by phone only for security reasons. Call 651-228-5263 to make a credit card payment.
- EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer): Check by phone. Provide your routing number and account number when you call.
- Cash: Accepted at the Pioneer Press front counter, Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM.
Rates:
- Minimum Charge: $162 for the first 10 lines.
- Additional Lines: $12.20 for each line after the first 10 lines.
- Second Run Date Lines: $8.20 per line, starting from the first line.
- Photo Charge: $125 per photo per day of publication.
Example: For a 20-line obituary on the first run date, the line cost would be $164 (in addition to any photo charges).
Deadlines for Obituary Submissions
Adhering to the deadlines is crucial to ensure your obituary is published on your desired date. Please note that these deadlines are strict and without exception:
| Hours | Deadline (No Exceptions) | Ad | Photos |
|---|---|---|---|
| MONDAY – FRIDAY 9:00AM – 5:00 PM | Next Day Publication | Must receive obituary content and payment same day by 4:30 PM. Make changes by 5:00 PM | Must receive photo(s) by 4:30 PM |
| SATURDAYS 10:00AM – 2:00PM | Sunday Publication | Must receive obituary content and payment same day by 1:30 PM. Make changes by 2:00 PM | Must receive photo(s) by 1:30 PM |
| SUNDAYS 12:00PM – 3:00PM | Monday Publication | Must receive obituary content, payment, and final changes same day by 2:30 PM | Must receive photo(s) by 2:30 PM |
Memoriam (Non-Obituary) Requests
In addition to obituaries, Pioneer Press also publishes Memoriams, which are remembrances of loved ones who have passed. Note that the rates for memoriams are different from obituaries.
For more information on placing a memoriam, please contact the Pioneer Press customer service team:
- Phone: 651-228-5280
- Email: [email protected]
Memoriam customer service hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed weekends and holidays).
Pioneer Press Customer Service: Here to Assist You
Pioneer Press is dedicated to supporting you during these important moments. For any queries related to obituaries, memoriams, or general inquiries, do not hesitate to reach out to the Pioneer Press Customer Service Number at 651-228-5263 or utilize the provided email addresses for specific requests. We are here to help you navigate the process with compassion and professionalism.
