The sudden loss of a loved one is a deeply upsetting experience. In addition to the emotional shock, families often have to deal with numerous tasks within a relatively short period of time. When an unexpected death occurs, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and not know where to start.

If you need to arrange a funeral on short notice in Montreal, on the North Shore, or on the South Shore, know that you don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. The complexe Aeterna is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—day or night, on weekends, and on holidays—to answer your questions and support you every step of the way.

By contacting our team at 514-228-1888, you can quickly get the help you need to begin the process and schedule a meeting with one of our family advisors.

 

Arranging a funeral on short notice

Whether at a hospital, a care facility, or at home, when a death occurs, loved ones must quickly make certain decisions regarding funeral arrangements and administrative formalities.

 

Under these circumstances, the following questions come to mind:

• What should be done after a passing?
• Who should be contacted first?
• What documents need to be prepared?
• How much time do we have to arrange a funeral service?
• How can we ensure that the deceased’s wishes are respected?

 

Organizing a funeral on short notice may seem complicated, but with the support of experienced professionals, the process becomes much simpler.

At the complexe Aeterna, we guide families through every step so they can focus on what matters most: honoring the memory of their loved one.

 

What to do in the first few hours after a passing?

 

Step 1: Have the death certified

Depending on the circumstances, the death will be certified by a doctor or by the healthcare professionals responsible for the patient’s care. If the death occurs in a healthcare facility, the staff on site will tell you what steps to take next.

 

Step 2: Contact the complexe Aeterna

One of the first steps is to contact the complexe Aeterna to receive support and make the necessary arrangements.

The complexe Aeterna is there for you from the very first call. Our team is available at all times to guide you.

Step 3: Notify the relevant facility

If the passing occurred in a hospital or residential care facility, you will need to inform the staff that you have entrusted your loved one to Aeterna. Our team will then handle the necessary arrangements with the relevant parties.

 

Step 4: Gather the required documents

To facilitate the opening of the case and the various procedures related to the passing, it is recommended that you gather the following documents and information:

• The deceased person’s Social Security number.
• The surviving spouse’s Social Security number (if applicable).
• The deceased person’s health insurance number.

 

If you have them on hand, you can also gather these items. However, these can also be provided later:

• A few recent photographs.
• A list of loved ones to whom you wish to send the obituary (optional).
• Clothing selected for the deceased, including underwear and socks.
• Glasses, jewelry, dentures, makeup, or other personal items you wish to include (optional).

 

Step 5: Begin planning the funeral

Once the meeting is over, your family advisor will help you plan the ceremony, choose funeral services, and make the various decisions that need to be made. To make things easier for you, simply follow these steps, and we’ll take care of the rest.

 

Administrative procedures following a death

After the loss of a loved one, several formalities must be completed with various government agencies, financial institutions, and service providers. For many families, this step is one of the most demanding aspects of managing a death.

That is why the complexe Aeterna places special emphasis on providing administrative support. Our advisors take the time to clearly explain the procedures to you and guide you through the entire process.

 

Why choose Aeterna to arrange a funeral on short notice?

 

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Our team is always available to support families when they need us. Whether it’s a weeknight, the weekend, or a holiday, you can count on us.

 

Comprehensive administrative support

Our family advisors guide you through every step to simplify the process and help you plan a meaningful funeral with complete confidence.

 

Service available in 13 languages

To better meet the needs of its clients, the complexe Aeterna offers support in 13 languages: French, English, Arabic, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Armenian, Mandarin, Simplified Chinese, Vietnamese, Lao, Lebanese, and Creole.

 

Ceremonies tailored to all cultures and beliefs

Every family has its own traditions, values, and customs. Our team ensures that everyone’s religious, spiritual, or cultural beliefs are respected in order to create a tribute that truly honors the deceased.

 

Personalized funerals, even in urgent situations

Just because a funeral must be arranged quickly doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the personal touch. On the contrary, moments of reflection remain essential for allowing loved ones to pay their respects to the deceased.

At complexe Aeterna, we help families create meaningful ceremonies that reflect the personality, values, and final wishes of the deceased. Whether it’s a religious, spiritual, or secular celebration, our team ensures that every detail contributes to honoring their memory with dignity and respect.

 

A funeral complex serving families in the Greater Montreal area

When a death occurs suddenly, the many decisions that need to be made can seem overwhelming. However, with the right support, it is possible to get through this difficult time with greater peace of mind.

Located in the Saint-Laurent borough, the complexe Aeterna welcomes families from across the Greater Montreal area. Whether you need to arrange a funeral on short notice, make prearrangements, or learn about the various resting place options, our team is here to support you with professionalism and compassion.

For assistance or to speak with a family advisor, please contact us through our website or by phone at 514 228-1888.

We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support you.

 

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

 

How much time do you have to arrange a funeral after a death?

The timeframe varies depending on the circumstances and the family’s wishes. A family advisor can explain the available options and help you establish a timeline tailored to your situation.

 

Who should you contact first after a death?

Once the death has been officially certified, it is recommended that you contact the Aeterna complex as soon as possible to receive the necessary assistance with the next steps.

 

Is it possible to organize a personalized ceremony on short notice?

Yes. Even when time is limited, it is possible to create a ceremony that reflects the personality, values, and beliefs of the deceased.

 

Is Aeterna open on weekends?

Yes. The complexe Aeterna is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.