The phrase identifies death notices published within a specific local newspaper. Specifically, it denotes content relating to obituaries as reported by The Wolf Point Herald, a news publication serving the Wolf Point, Montana area. These notices typically include details about the deceased’s life, funeral arrangements, and expressions of sympathy from family and friends.
Such resources serve as vital historical records for genealogical research and community memory. They provide essential information about individuals’ lives, connections, and contributions to society. Accessing these records can offer insights into family histories, demographic trends, and local cultural practices, enriching historical understanding.
This specific type of content, available through the newspaper, provides information that informs many local stories, and provides a valuable community service by documenting important life events. Many related topics could include local historical societies, genealogical databases, and journalism practices.
1. Publication Source
The “Publication Source” is fundamentally important when considering obituary notices, as it dictates the scope, reach, and reliability of the information contained within “wolf point herald news obituaries.” It establishes the context for understanding the content’s origin and potential biases.
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Verification and Accuracy
The credibility of the Wolf Point Herald influences the perceived accuracy of the obituaries. A reputable publication is more likely to adhere to journalistic standards, verifying information before publication. For instance, a death announcement sourced from the Herald would generally be considered more trustworthy than one from an unverified online forum. Inaccurate information can lead to confusion and distress for families and researchers.
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Geographic Scope and Relevance
As a local newspaper, the Herald’s obituaries primarily cover individuals with ties to Wolf Point, Montana, and the surrounding area. This geographic focus makes it a valuable resource for those researching families and individuals connected to this region. The content is tailored to the community, reflecting its values and interests. If someone is looking for death announcements outside of this region, the Herald is not the correct source.
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Editorial Policy and Content Guidelines
The Wolf Point Herald’s editorial policy shapes the format and content of the obituaries. Some publications may have specific guidelines regarding length, inclusion of photographs, or fees for publication. These policies directly influence the type of information available to the public. For example, if the newspaper charges per word, families may opt for shorter, less detailed obituaries.
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Accessibility and Preservation
The accessibility of the Wolf Point Herald also impacts the usability of its obituary content. Whether the newspaper is available online, in print, or archived affects how easily researchers can access historical records. Preservation efforts are critical to ensure that these records are maintained for future generations. Without proper archiving, valuable genealogical information can be lost.
In essence, the Wolf Point Herald as the “Publication Source” defines the framework within which its obituaries should be understood. Understanding its local focus, editorial policies, and preservation practices is key to effectively utilizing its death notices for historical or genealogical research. The newspaper’s commitment to accuracy and community relevance ensures the value of its obituary content.
2. Record of Death
The “Record of Death” within “wolf point herald news obituaries” constitutes the fundamental core, establishing both verification and validation of a life’s conclusion as publicly acknowledged by The Wolf Point Herald. It provides the necessary foundation upon which further biographical details and commemorations are built.
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Confirmation of Passing
The initial and primary role of the “Record of Death” is to officially acknowledge that an individual has died. This confirmation is crucial for legal, social, and genealogical purposes. For example, an obituary published in the Wolf Point Herald serves as evidence that a local resident, such as John Doe, has passed away. This confirmation may be required for estate settlements, insurance claims, and family notifications. Absence of such confirmation may lead to legal complications and uncertainty.
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Date and Location of Death
Critical details provided by the “Record of Death” include the precise date and location where the death occurred. This information is vital for creating accurate historical records and tracing family lineages. For instance, an obituary might state that “Jane Smith passed away on July 15, 2024, at her home in Wolf Point.” This data point helps historians understand mortality patterns within the community and assists genealogists in building family trees. Errors or omissions can lead to inaccuracies in public records and cause confusion for researchers.
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Cause of Death (Sometimes)
While not always included, the “Record of Death” may sometimes contain information about the cause of death, if the family chooses to disclose it. This can offer valuable insights into public health trends and historical health issues within the local community. For example, obituaries indicating deaths from diseases like influenza or cancer provide data points for tracking disease prevalence over time. However, the inclusion of this information is subject to privacy considerations and family preferences. The absence of a stated cause of death may reflect sensitivities or legal restrictions.
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Legal and Social Validation
The publication of a “Record of Death” in the Wolf Point Herald carries a degree of legal and social validation. The newspaper’s role as a community record-keeper lends credibility to the announcement. This validation is important for formalizing the end of a person’s legal existence and allowing the community to collectively acknowledge the loss. For example, the published obituary serves as a public record of the death, which can be referenced in legal proceedings or social discussions about the deceased. Questionable or unverified death records may undermine trust in public institutions and disrupt social norms.
In summary, the “Record of Death” element within the Wolf Point Herald’s obituaries functions as a pivotal cornerstone for historical documentation and community remembrance. Its verification, detailing, and provision of basic information ensure accuracy and serve as a starting point for understanding an individual’s life within the context of the Wolf Point community. This element directly impacts genealogical research, legal processes, and community cohesion.
3. Life Summaries
Life summaries within The Wolf Point Herald obituaries offer concise narratives of the deceased, distilling key aspects of their existence and contributions to the community. These summaries serve as tributes, historical records, and sources of insight into local history.
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Key Biographical Details
Life summaries encapsulate essential biographical information, including birthdates, places of origin, education, and significant life events. For example, an obituary might note that “Mary Johnson, born in Wolf Point on March 12, 1945, graduated from Wolf Point High School in 1963.” This information provides a foundational framework for understanding the individual’s life trajectory and connection to the local area. Omissions or inaccuracies can lead to incomplete or misleading historical records.
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Occupational History and Achievements
These summaries often detail the deceased’s occupational history, highlighting their professions, career milestones, and contributions to their fields. An obituary could state that “John Smith worked as a rancher for over 40 years, contributing significantly to the local agricultural industry.” This information illustrates the individual’s role in the community’s economic and social fabric. Significant achievements, such as awards or recognition, may also be mentioned to underscore their impact.
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Community Involvement and Affiliations
Life summaries frequently highlight the deceased’s community involvement, including their participation in local organizations, volunteer work, and religious affiliations. An obituary might mention that “Jane Doe was an active member of the Wolf Point Historical Society and volunteered at the local food bank.” This information showcases the individual’s contributions to the community’s social well-being and reveals their connections to various social networks. Such details provide insight into the individual’s values and priorities.
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Family Relationships and Personal Attributes
Life summaries often include details about the deceased’s family relationships, such as their spouse, children, and grandchildren. They may also include personal attributes and qualities that defined the individual’s character. An obituary could state that “Robert Brown was a loving father and grandfather known for his kindness and generosity.” These personal touches humanize the individual and provide a more complete picture of their life. The inclusion of family relationships helps establish connections to other members of the community and provides valuable genealogical information.
The life summaries presented in The Wolf Point Herald obituaries, therefore, constitute valuable records of individuals’ lives and their impact on the local community. These narratives offer insights into personal histories, professional contributions, community involvement, and family relationships, collectively painting a comprehensive portrait of the deceased within the context of Wolf Point. These details contribute significantly to the historical record and aid genealogical research.
4. Funeral Details
Funeral details, when included within The Wolf Point Herald’s obituaries, provide essential logistical and commemorative information to the community. This component serves as a direct call to action, informing residents of how and where they can pay their respects to the deceased and support the grieving family. The presence of such details transforms a simple announcement of death into an opportunity for collective mourning and remembrance.
The obituary may include the date, time, and location of the funeral or memorial service, as well as information about visitation or wake services. For example, an obituary might state, “Funeral services will be held at the Wolf Point Community Church on Saturday, August 10th, at 10:00 AM, with visitation at Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel on Friday, August 9th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.” This specificity allows community members to plan their attendance and offer their condolences in a timely and appropriate manner. Furthermore, the obituary might also indicate any preferred charities for memorial donations, providing an alternative way for people to express their sympathy and support a cause important to the deceased.
In summary, the inclusion of funeral details in obituaries published by The Wolf Point Herald serves a practical and communal function. It provides necessary information that enables community members to participate in the mourning process, offer support to the bereaved, and honor the life of the deceased. This information is essential for fostering community cohesion and providing a framework for collective grief and remembrance. The presence of complete and accurate funeral details within The Wolf Point Heralds obituary section enhances its value as a vital resource for the Wolf Point community.
5. Community Connections
The presence of “Community Connections” within The Wolf Point Herald obituaries provides invaluable context, enriching the details of individual lives and illustrating the interwoven nature of society within Wolf Point and its surrounding areas. These connections offer insight into the deceased’s role, influence, and relationships within the community.
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Social Networks and Affiliations
Obituaries routinely list the deceased’s memberships in local organizations, clubs, and associations. This information reveals the individual’s social networks and their involvement in community activities. For instance, an obituary might mention membership in the local Rotary Club, the VFW, or a church group. These affiliations indicate the deceased’s interests, social circles, and contributions to community initiatives. The breadth and depth of these connections provide a measure of the individual’s social impact.
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Family Ties and Kinship
The listing of surviving family members – spouses, children, siblings, and grandchildren – elucidates the deceased’s familial relationships and kinship ties within the community. Long-term residents often have extensive family networks in the area, and the obituary serves as a public record of these relationships. Mentions of family businesses or multi-generational farms, for example, underscore the importance of family legacies and their contribution to the local economy and culture. These familial connections strengthen social bonds and create a sense of continuity within the community.
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Professional Relationships and Economic Impact
References to the deceased’s professional life and career achievements shed light on their economic contributions and professional relationships within the community. Mentions of local businesses, farms, or public service careers highlight the individual’s role in the local economy. For example, an obituary might note that the deceased owned and operated a successful hardware store for over 30 years, contributing to the town’s economic vitality. These professional connections illustrate how individuals contribute to the community’s economic health and shape its identity.
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Volunteerism and Civic Engagement
Details regarding the deceased’s volunteer work, civic engagement, and charitable contributions underscore their commitment to community service. Obituaries frequently mention involvement in local charities, volunteer organizations, or public service roles. Examples include serving on the school board, volunteering at the local food bank, or participating in community clean-up efforts. These activities demonstrate the individual’s dedication to the betterment of the community and their willingness to contribute to the common good. Such civic engagement strengthens social cohesion and reinforces community values.
In summation, the “Community Connections” detailed within The Wolf Point Herald obituaries offer a lens through which to understand the deceased’s integral role within the Wolf Point community. By highlighting social networks, family ties, professional relationships, and civic engagement, these connections create a rich tapestry of relationships and contributions that define the community’s character and history. These details transform the obituary from a mere announcement of death into a testament to a life lived within and for the benefit of the community.
6. Historical Data
The historical data present within The Wolf Point Herald obituaries provides a unique lens into the past, capturing details of individual lives, community trends, and societal changes that might otherwise be lost to time. These notices, when viewed collectively, constitute a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and genealogists seeking to understand the history of Wolf Point and its inhabitants.
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Demographic Trends
Obituaries offer insights into demographic trends, such as birth rates, mortality rates, and migration patterns within the Wolf Point area. By analyzing a series of obituaries over time, researchers can identify shifts in population demographics, changes in life expectancy, and the prevalence of certain diseases. For example, a spike in obituaries citing deaths from a specific illness could indicate an epidemic or public health crisis. This data helps paint a picture of the community’s overall health and well-being at different points in history.
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Social and Cultural Norms
Obituaries reflect the social and cultural norms of the time in which they were published. The language used, the customs described, and the values emphasized in these notices provide clues about the beliefs and attitudes of the community. For instance, obituaries from the early 20th century might highlight the deceased’s strong work ethic and religious devotion, reflecting the values of that era. Examining these changes over time reveals the evolution of social and cultural norms within Wolf Point.
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Economic Activities and Industries
The occupations and industries mentioned in obituaries shed light on the economic activities that have shaped the Wolf Point area. Obituaries might highlight the prevalence of ranching, farming, or other industries that have historically been important to the local economy. By tracking the occupations listed in obituaries over time, researchers can gain a better understanding of how the economy has evolved and the types of jobs that have been available to residents. This data provides valuable insights into the economic history of the community.
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Family History and Genealogy
Obituaries are an invaluable resource for family history and genealogical research. They provide key information about ancestors, including their dates of birth and death, their family relationships, and their contributions to the community. Obituaries can help genealogists fill in gaps in their family trees and learn more about the lives of their ancestors. The details included in obituaries, such as names of family members and places of residence, can provide clues that lead to other historical records and sources of information.
In conclusion, the historical data contained within The Wolf Point Herald obituaries offers a rich tapestry of information about the lives, trends, and events that have shaped the Wolf Point community. From demographic trends and social norms to economic activities and family histories, these notices provide valuable insights into the past. By carefully analyzing this data, researchers and community members can gain a deeper understanding of the history and heritage of Wolf Point and its people.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wolf Point Herald News Obituaries
This section addresses common inquiries concerning the obituary content published by The Wolf Point Herald. The aim is to provide clarity and guidance regarding access, submission, and the nature of information contained within these notices.
Question 1: How does one locate obituary information published in The Wolf Point Herald?
Obituary information is typically available through the Wolf Point Herald’s official website, print editions, and potentially through archival databases. Interested parties should consult these resources directly. Contacting the Herald’s office may also provide assistance in locating specific notices.
Question 2: What is the process for submitting an obituary to The Wolf Point Herald for publication?
The submission process generally involves contacting the Herald’s obituary department, adhering to their specified format and word count guidelines, and providing necessary documentation, such as a death certificate. Fees may apply, depending on the length and content of the obituary. Exact details should be confirmed with the Wolf Point Herald directly.
Question 3: What type of information is typically included in obituaries published by The Wolf Point Herald?
Published obituaries generally include the deceased’s full name, date of birth and death, a summary of their life, information about family members, and details regarding funeral or memorial services. The inclusion of specific information is at the discretion of the family and subject to the Herald’s editorial policies.
Question 4: Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary in The Wolf Point Herald?
Yes, the publication of obituaries in The Wolf Point Herald typically incurs a fee. The cost is usually determined by the length of the obituary and any additional features, such as photographs. Contacting the Herald’s advertising or obituary department will provide accurate pricing information.
Question 5: How far back do The Wolf Point Herald’s obituary records extend?
The extent of the Wolf Point Herald’s obituary archives varies. The newspapers online availability might be limited. Contacting the Wolf Point Herald directly, or consulting local historical societies and libraries, may reveal the availability of older records.
Question 6: Who should be contacted with corrections to, or concerns about, a published obituary in The Wolf Point Herald?
Direct communication with The Wolf Point Herald’s editorial or obituary department is the appropriate course of action for addressing corrections or concerns regarding a published notice. Providing supporting documentation may expedite the resolution process.
These FAQs offer a foundational understanding of the obituary publication process within The Wolf Point Herald. Consulting the newspaper directly remains the most reliable method for obtaining specific details and guidance.
The following section will transition into an examination of related content, such as local historical archives and genealogical resources.
Navigating and Utilizing Obituary Resources
This section provides specific guidelines for effectively accessing and leveraging obituary information, especially in locales like Wolf Point. Thoughtful research techniques and consideration of resource limitations are essential for accurate results.
Tip 1: Prioritize Direct Newspaper Consultation: The primary source for obituary details remains the publication itself. Whether through physical archives or digital access, directly consulting The Wolf Point Herald’s records offers the most authoritative information. Secondary sources should be cross-referenced for verification.
Tip 2: Utilize Library and Historical Society Resources: Local libraries and historical societies often maintain extensive collections of newspapers and related records. These institutions provide controlled environments for accessing fragile historical documents and may offer specialized research assistance.
Tip 3: Employ Targeted Keyword Searches: When using online databases or search engines, employ precise keywords, including names, dates, and locations. Broader searches may yield irrelevant results. Refine searches with specific terms related to the individual or event of interest.
Tip 4: Acknowledge Potential Data Gaps and Inaccuracies: Obituary information may be incomplete or contain errors. Cross-referencing details with other sources, such as census records or family histories, can help ensure accuracy and fill in missing information.
Tip 5: Respect Privacy and Sensitivity: Obituary records contain personal information and should be treated with respect. Consider the potential impact on living individuals and adhere to ethical research practices. Avoid disseminating sensitive details without appropriate consent.
Tip 6: Be Aware of Publication Timelines and Policies: The availability of obituary records varies depending on publication policies and archival practices. Understand the timeframes covered by specific resources and any restrictions on access or usage.
Tip 7: Leverage Genealogical Websites with Caution: Genealogical websites can be valuable tools for locating obituary information, but their accuracy and completeness vary. Verify information obtained from these sources against primary records whenever possible.
The diligent application of these techniques maximizes the utility of obituary resources while minimizing the potential for errors or ethical concerns. Meticulous research contributes to a more accurate understanding of individual lives and community histories.
The following sections will cover related topics and offer a comprehensive view of local historical resources.
Conclusion
Wolf Point Herald news obituaries, as explored herein, represent more than mere announcements of death. They function as vital historical and communal records, encapsulating key biographical details, community connections, and reflections of societal norms. Their importance resides in offering essential verification and validation of the individuals’ life whose essence, experiences, and societal contributions can be learned from the community members.
Recognizing the value in the “wolf point herald news obituaries” encourages a more profound appreciation for local history and its invaluable role in enriching the community. Ensuring the continuity of these practices by archiving them in a safe way promotes cultural awareness to strengthen local community bonds by creating an easy-to-access system. Understanding our past fosters a more informed and connected future, ensuring that future generations will have access to the history of people from the Wolf Point area.
