Death at Home
If the deceased has been receiving treatment from a doctor prior to death, he must be contacted.
It is also advisable to contact the Guardia Civil (police), particularly if it is a sudden death.
Have available Passport and/or Residencia (if applicable) and the names of the next of kin.
Either the Doctor or Police will contact the local Tanatorio (Funeral Directors & chapel for services).
It is advisable that all valuables are removed from the body - these can be reunited with the body later. Specify as to whether it is to be a cremation or burial; there are separate procedures for those whose body has been donated to science.
Ask the Tanatorio to contact a local Minister to conduct the service. Let all relatives know - this may affect the timing of the service.
Death in Hospital
Pass information to whichever Tanatorio you wish to use, to have the body removed.
Visit the Tanatorio within 24 hours, the Funeral Director at Torrevieja can make all arrangements for any of the hospitals in the Province.
General Note - a simple checklist of offered for guidance:
Passport or Residencia
Insurance company if applicable
Spanish Will - see separate note
Names of parents deceased
Type of service - which denomination
Date and time of Service
Inform relatives
Floral tributes can be arranged by Tanatorio or a retiring
collection
Transport
Collection of Ashes -Licence to take to the UK if desired
Pay Tanatorio
The Director of the Tanatorio will provide the Death Certificate, you may need several copies - stamped and signed - copies are required for DSS in UK, Insurance Company, Banks in UK and Spain.
Spanish Will
To those who are reading this in preparation for the inevitable, to make things simpler and less costly,
it is important to have a Spanish Will. Whilst a British one is recognised, it will involve solicitors,
getting it translated and agreed by a Notary. Take advice from your fiscal representative.
We would advise you to use only licensed Ministers for any of the above services.
|
