These are published records of death notices appearing in the Estherville Daily News. They serve as a formal declaration of a person’s passing and typically include biographical details such as date of birth, place of birth, surviving family members, and funeral service information. For example, a typical entry might detail the life of a long-time resident, noting their contributions to the community and memorial service arrangements.
The documentation of deaths offers a valuable service to the community, providing a centralized location for individuals to learn about the passing of acquaintances, friends, or family members. Historically, such announcements were often the primary means of disseminating this information, fulfilling a vital social function. Access to these records allows individuals to pay their respects, offer condolences to grieving families, and preserve local history.