Submitting an obituary to the Pioneer Press to honor a loved one’s memory is a straightforward process, designed with customer service in mind to assist you during a sensitive time. Pioneer Press understands the importance of these announcements and offers dedicated customer service to guide you through each step, ensuring your tribute is respectfully and accurately published. Whether you’re looking to place an obituary online or in print, Pioneer Press Customer Service is readily available to help.
Contacting Pioneer Press Obituary Customer Service
For direct assistance and to ensure a smooth submission process, Pioneer Press provides multiple avenues for customer service. You can reach out to the obituary desk via email or phone, depending on your preference:
- Email Submission: For submitting your obituary details and inquiries, please email [email protected].
- Phone Assistance: If you have questions or prefer to speak with a representative, you can contact the obituary desk directly at 651-228-5263.
Pioneer Press customer service representatives are prepared to answer your questions regarding obituary specifications, policies, deadlines, and payment procedures.
Key Information Needed for Your Obituary Submission
To expedite the obituary placement process, please have the following information ready when you contact Pioneer Press customer service:
General Contact Information:
- Your Full Name
- Address (City, State, Zip Code)
- Phone Number
- Alternate Phone Number (optional)
Obituary Specifics:
- Name of the Deceased
- Complete Obituary Text
- Photo (JPEG or PDF preferred; other formats accepted)
- Desired Run Dates for the Obituary
Pioneer Press customer service can provide details on discounts for multiple-day runs and photo inclusions, ensuring you understand all available options and pricing.
Pioneer Press Obituary Policies and Procedures
Understanding the policies and procedures will help streamline your interaction with Pioneer Press customer service and ensure a hassle-free obituary placement.
Verification of Death
To maintain accuracy and respect, 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 customer service will contact them to verify the passing. Alternatively, a death certificate is also acceptable.
Guidelines on Guestbooks and External Websites
Pioneer Press focuses on providing a dedicated space for obituaries within its platform. Therefore, references to guestbooks or obituaries hosted on external media sources are not permitted in print and online obituaries. However, you can include a funeral home website or a family email address for contact. Pioneer Press customer service can clarify any questions regarding this policy.
The Obituary Review Process
Once you submit your obituary, Pioneer Press customer service will send you a proof via fax or email for your review before publication. This proof will include the obituary text, scheduled publication dates, and the total price. Carefully review this proof for any errors and notify customer service of any necessary changes before the stated deadlines. Pioneer Press is not responsible for errors after final proof approval.
Online Obituary Amendments
For any changes needed to an obituary already published online, please contact Pioneer Press customer service directly by phone for assistance.
Payment and Rate Information for Obituaries
Pre-payment is required for all obituary notices before publication. After you receive and approve your proof, you can make a payment by contacting Pioneer Press customer service at 651-228-5263.
Payment Methods Accepted:
- Credit Card: Payments are accepted over the phone for security reasons.
- EFT (Check by Phone): Provide your routing number and account number for payment via phone.
- Cash: Accepted in person at the front counter, Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM.
Obituary Rates:
- Minimum charge: $162 for up to 10 lines.
- Additional lines (beyond 10): $12.20 per line for the first run date.
- Subsequent run dates: $8.20 per line (starting from the first line).
- Photo publication: $125 per photo, per day.
Pioneer Press customer service can provide detailed rate calculations based on your obituary’s length and requirements.
Important Deadlines for Obituary Submissions
Adhering to deadlines is crucial to ensure timely publication. Please note the following deadlines:
| Hours | Deadline (No Exceptions) | Ad | Photos |
|---|---|---|---|
| MONDAY – FRIDAY 9:00AM – 5:00 PM | Next Day Publication | Content & Payment by 4:30 PM; Changes by 5:00 PM | Photo(s) by 4:30 PM |
| SATURDAYS 10:00AM – 2:00PM | Sunday Publication | Content & Payment by 1:30 PM; Changes by 2:00 PM | Photo(s) by 1:30 PM |
| SUNDAYS 12:00PM – 3:00PM | Monday Publication | Content, Payment, & Final Changes by 2:30 PM | Photo(s) by 2:30 PM |
Pioneer Press customer service is available during these hours to assist with your submissions and answer any deadline-related queries.
Memoriam Submissions
In addition to obituaries, Pioneer Press also offers Memoriam submissions, which are remembrances of loved ones. Note that memoriam rates differ from obituary rates. For more information on memoriam submissions, please contact Pioneer Press customer service at 651-228-5280 or email [email protected]. Memoriam customer service hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed weekends and holidays).
Pioneer Press customer service is dedicated to providing support and guidance throughout the obituary submission process. Contact them today to ensure your tribute is handled with care and published accurately.
