Death is a fact of life we must all face at some point. Whether the death is anticipated or unexpected, we will be confronted with diverse emotions and critical decisions during a difficult time. We hope the information and resources gathered on this site will be of assistance to you.

• Call the attending physician if there is an expected death. If the death is unexpected, there is no doctor available and no emergency services in your area, or you are concerned or uncertain about the circumstances surrounding a death, contact your local coroner's office or the Office of the Chief Coroner.
• If your arrangements will include a funeral or a direct disposition you may contact a funeral home or a transfer service. Funeral directors can help you make all the arrangements for funerals. For more information, contact the Board of Funeral Services (416-979-5450 / 1 800 387-4458).
• Should your arrangements also include burial or cremation the cemetery or crematorium you choose can help you make the necessary arrangements. If you have questions relating to cemeteries and crematoriums and the services and supplies that they offer, contact the Ministry of Government Services, Cemeteries Section (416-326-8393 / 1 800 268-1142).
• There are organizations such as Bereaved Families of Ontario, the Ontario Psychological Association, and Distress Centres who can help you through this time.

Quick Links:

• Death Certificate: The funeral director will issue copies of a proof of death that you can use in certain situations. There are some organizations, however, that may require an official death certificate.
• Online Death Certificate Application
  - More information on death registration
  - Ontario Death Certificate Application Form  (PDF - 37K) Text Version
• Online Status Inquiry of the Death Certificate Application in Ontario
   
• Death Out of Country: If the person dies in another country, contact the Canadian Consulate Office of that country for instructions on how to proceed.