Solon, Ohio Obituaries: Find Local Death Notices
Finding information about the lives of people who have passed away can be a necessary, albeit sensitive, task. When you're looking for Solon, Ohio obituaries, it's important to know where to start and how to navigate the available resources. Whether you're conducting genealogical research, seeking to inform yourself of a community member's passing, or trying to locate service details, this guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of where to find the obituaries you need.
Understanding Obituaries
Before diving into the specifics of locating Solon, Ohio obituaries, let's clarify what an obituary is and what kind of information it typically contains. An obituary is a published notice of a person's death. Traditionally, these notices appeared in newspapers, but with the rise of the internet, they've also become common on online platforms, including funeral home websites and memorial pages.
An obituary generally includes the following details:
- The deceased's full name
 - Date of birth and death
 - City and state of residence
 - Information about their life, including accomplishments, hobbies, and personal stories
 - Names of surviving family members, such as spouses, children, and grandchildren
 - Details about funeral or memorial services, including dates, times, and locations
 - Information on where to send memorial donations, if applicable
 
Some obituaries may also include a photograph of the deceased. The length and level of detail can vary significantly depending on the preferences of the family and the policies of the publishing platform.
Key Resources for Finding Solon, Ohio Obituaries
When searching for Solon, Ohio obituaries, several key resources can provide the information you need. These include local newspapers, online obituary databases, and funeral home websites. Each of these sources has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth exploring multiple options to ensure a thorough search.
1. Local Newspapers
Local newspapers have historically been the primary source for obituaries. In the Solon, Ohio area, you'll want to check the major regional newspapers, as well as any community-specific publications. Here are some newspapers to consider:
- The Plain Dealer: As the major newspaper serving the Cleveland metropolitan area, The Plain Dealer often includes obituaries for residents of Solon and surrounding communities. You can search their online archives, though access to older obituaries may require a subscription.
 - Cleveland Jewish News: If the deceased was a member of the Jewish community, the Cleveland Jewish News is a valuable resource. They publish obituaries for members of the local Jewish community, including those in Solon.
 
Keep in mind that smaller, community-focused newspapers may also carry obituaries for local residents. Check with local libraries or historical societies to access archives of these publications.
2. Online Obituary Databases
Several online platforms specialize in compiling obituaries from various sources. These databases can be a convenient way to search for Solon, Ohio obituaries without having to sift through multiple newspaper archives. Some popular options include:
- Legacy.com: Legacy.com is one of the largest online obituary databases, partnering with newspapers across the country to publish obituaries online. You can search for obituaries specifically from the Solon, Ohio area by entering the city and state in the search field.
 - Erieview.com: Erieview.com is a great place to research since it serves the local community. While using Erieview.com, you can narrow down the search by city.
 - FindAGrave.com: While not strictly an obituary database, FindAGrave.com includes memorial pages for deceased individuals, often with biographical information and links to obituaries if available. You can search for individuals buried in cemeteries in the Solon area.
 - Cleveland.com: Cleveland.com is another great place to search for obituaries since it is a local website. You can also filter the obituaries by location.
 
When using these databases, be sure to use a variety of search terms, including the deceased's full name, maiden name (if applicable), and any known nicknames. You may also want to try searching using the names of surviving family members.
3. Funeral Home Websites
Funeral homes often publish obituaries on their websites as a service to the families they serve. If you know which funeral home handled the arrangements for the deceased, check their website for an obituary. Some funeral homes in or near Solon, Ohio, include:
- Stroud-Lawrence Funeral Home: Located in Chagrin Falls, Stroud-Lawrence Funeral Home serves many families in the Solon area. Check their website for recent obituaries.
 - Kindrich-McHugh Steinbauer Funeral Home: Located in Solon, it is a great place to research for Solon, Ohio obituaries. You can also filter by those who recently passed away.
 
Even if you're not sure which funeral home was involved, it may be worth checking the websites of several local funeral homes. Many funeral homes allow you to sign up for email alerts when new obituaries are posted, which can be helpful if you're conducting ongoing research.
4. Public Libraries and Historical Societies
Local public libraries and historical societies can be invaluable resources for finding Solon, Ohio obituaries, especially those from the more distant past. These institutions often maintain archives of local newspapers, city directories, and other historical records that can contain obituary information.
- Solon Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library: The Solon library branch may have access to local newspaper archives or obituary indexes. Librarians can also provide guidance on other resources for genealogical research.
 - Historical Societies: Contacting local historical societies can provide more resources. They also can help find other resources that are helpful.
 
Keep in mind that access to some resources may be limited due to preservation concerns or copyright restrictions. However, library and historical society staff can often provide assistance in locating the information you need.
Tips for Conducting Your Search
Finding Solon, Ohio obituaries can sometimes be challenging, especially if you're searching for information about someone who passed away many years ago. Here are some tips to help you conduct a successful search:
- Be Patient and Persistent: Obituary records may not always be complete or accurate, and it may take time to sift through multiple sources to find the information you need. Don't get discouraged if your initial searches don't turn up results. Keep trying different search terms and exploring different resources.
 - Use a Variety of Search Terms: Try searching using the deceased's full name, maiden name, nicknames, and the names of surviving family members. You may also want to try searching using different date ranges or keywords related to their life and accomplishments.
 - Check Multiple Sources: Don't rely on just one source for obituary information. Check local newspapers, online obituary databases, funeral home websites, and library archives to ensure a thorough search.
 - Consider Alternative Spellings: If you're not finding results with one spelling of a name, try alternative spellings. Names may have been misspelled in historical records, especially if they were uncommon or foreign.
 - Contact Local Experts: Librarians, historical society staff, and funeral home directors can often provide valuable guidance and insights into local obituary resources. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for assistance.
 
Understanding the Emotional Aspect
Searching for obituaries can be an emotional experience, especially if you knew the deceased personally. Be prepared for the possibility of encountering sensitive or upsetting information. It's important to approach your search with empathy and respect for the deceased and their family.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or distressed, take breaks and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Remember that it's okay to take your time and prioritize your emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Finding Solon, Ohio obituaries requires a strategic approach, utilizing various resources such as local newspapers, online databases, and funeral home websites. By understanding the nature of obituaries and employing effective search techniques, you can successfully locate the information you need. Remember to be patient, persistent, and respectful throughout the process.
Whether you're conducting genealogical research, seeking to inform yourself of a community member's passing, or trying to locate service details, the resources and tips outlined in this guide should provide a solid foundation for your search. Good luck, and remember to approach this task with sensitivity and care.