We understand that death can be an overwhelming time. It is our mission to make the death care process as straightforward and gentle as possible.
1. Call Recompose to notify us of the death
It is okay to take time with your person’s body before calling us. Death is a profound moment, and pausing to breathe and be present can be a meaningful and rare opportunity.
If your person dies in a hospital or care facility, you may let staff know that Recompose is your chosen funeral home, and they will notify us of the death for you. If your person dies at home, you can contact us when you are ready for Recompose to arrange pickup.
When you are ready, call Recompose at (206) 800-TREE (8733) and press 1.
We will ask a few questions on this call, including:
- Name and date of birth of the person who has died
- Gender of the person who has died
- Date and time of death
- Location and address where we will be picking up your person
- Size of the person who has died to determine the type of equipment we may need
- Whether the location has stairs
- Whether friends or family will be present at the time of pickup
- Doctor’s name and phone number, if known, to help verify the death certificate
It is ideal to notify Recompose within 24 hours of death so we can begin filing the death certificate, which must be filed within 72 hours. You may also call us if you expect a death in the coming days or weeks, or if you would like background information in advance.
If your person is coming to Recompose from outside our service (Washington or the Portland metro area) we will coordinate transportation through our trusted partners or a local funeral home of your choosing. If you choose to work with a local funeral home, they will follow their own procedures for transport and coordinate directly with Recompose. Once your person arrives at our facility, we will notify you to continue making arrangements.
If the death is unexpected or the person was not under medical care, the death must be recorded by local authorities. In this case, please call 911.
2. Take time with your person
While it is important to notify us of a death within 24 hours so we can begin the legal paperwork, there is no required timeline for your person’s body to be picked up. You may take minutes, hours, or days to be with your person after their death. This time can offer space to say goodbye, grieve, memorialize, or gather with others with your person.
We encourage you to consider spending time with your person’s body. People experience a range of emotions during this time, and all are valid. If your person dies at home, Recompose can provide guidance on caring for them until you are ready for pickup.
If the death occurs in a hospital or care facility, the facility may give you more time at your request. Talk to your care provider about the opportunities that might be available.
If you plan to transport your person to Recompose yourself, we will help ensure you have the appropriate permits and information for safe and legal transport, provide directions, and schedule pickup.
3. Recompose takes your person into our care
Our transport partners will review the information you shared and answer any questions you have. They will be wearing masks and gloves.
You can take the transport team to your person’s body when you are ready. If any stairs or other conditions require special equipment, the team will determine the safest way to proceed.
We welcome your presence and participation during this time. You may choose how involved you would like to be as your person is prepared for transport. We will wrap the body in protective covering, place them on a stretcher, and secure and cover them. This may be the last time you see your person before they are transformed into soil. If you wish, you may use this moment to say a final goodbye.
4. Recompose confirms details and next steps
Within 24-48 hours after pickup, Recompose staff will contact you to schedule a meeting to to review your person’s information and wishes. This arrangement meeting includes contract signing, payment, and any other details.
Full payment is required before the transformation process begins. Payment may be made by check or card.
If you have any questions at any point, you can reach us at (206) 800-TREE (8733). Our staff is here to support you every step of the way.