When someone close to us dies, it is common for family members to take on the task of writing their obituary.
These pieces are often emotional and heartfelt, reflecting the love and respect they had for the deceased. However, not all families write glowing tributes; some may opt for a more honest portrayal of their loved one’s life.
Obituaries are usually shared publicly, either in a newspaper or online, meaning they can reach a wide audience – from a small group of people to potentially hundreds. One particular obituary highlights the family tension. Kathleen Dehmlow’s two grown children wrote an obituary for their mother and shared it with their community. At first glance, this seems like a typical tribute, but as you read on, it becomes clear that there were unresolved issues in the family. The ending in particular is quite surprising but somewhat ironic.
The Redwood Falls Gazette published an obituary, but it was removed after receiving significant criticism. A family member confirmed that the obituary was accurate, although he said it left out “a significant amount of omitted information.” Dwight, another family member, offered a different perspective, mentioning that Kathleen made a mistake sixty years ago, but she expressed remorse, stressing that everyone makes mistakes.
Despite this, the person who wrote the obituary chose to end on a bitter note, which likely made many readers uncomfortable. Some even questioned whether it should have been published at all. The newspaper’s CEO responded by saying there was no legal reason to prevent the publication of the obituary, explaining that their partners adhere to high editorial standards and had carefully reviewed the article in response to the concerns raised.
Now you are probably wondering what made this obituary so unique. Don’t worry – we’ve got it right here for you to read.
Feel free to share it with your loved ones!
The controversy surrounding Kathleen Dehmlow’s obituary serves as a reminder of the complexity of family relationships and how unresolved conflicts can surface even after death. The decision to include harsh truths about a loved one in the obituary left many feeling uncomfortable but also highlighted deep emotional struggles within the family. While some may argue that the obituary crossed the line, others believe it was a raw reflection of personal experiences and the difficult decisions families sometimes face.
Regardless of differing opinions on the tone of the obituary, it ultimately sparked important conversations about forgiveness, responsibility, and the complexities of family dynamics. While obituaries are often seen as tributes that honor the deceased, this one has become a stark reminder that not all stories are filled with only positive memories. In the end, the story of Kathleen Dehmlow’s obituary is a powerful example of how our relationships and history can shape the way we are remembered—and the impact the truth, however painful, can have on those we leave behind.