Writing an obituary for an entrepreneur can be a delicate task, capturing their professional achievements and personal life in a respectful and heartfelt manner.
What Should Be Included in an Entrepreneur’s Obituary?
When crafting an obituary for an entrepreneur, it’s essential to include specific details that highlight their life and career.
Basic Information
Start with the entrepreneur’s full name, age, and the date of passing. This fundamental information sets the stage for the rest of the obituary.
Professional Accomplishments
Detail their key achievements and contributions to their field. Mention any companies they founded, innovative products they launched, or awards they received.
Personal Life
Include information about their family, hobbies, and interests. This helps paint a fuller picture of who they were beyond their professional achievements.
How to Structure the Obituary?
The structure of an obituary is vital for clarity and flow. A well-structured obituary allows readers to easily follow along.
Opening Paragraph
Begin with a strong opening that summarizes the entrepreneur’s life and contributions. This paragraph should hook the reader and provide a snapshot of their legacy.
Chronological Flow
Organize the content chronologically to make it easier to read. Start from their early life, move to their education, and then discuss their professional journey.
Concluding Remarks
End with a reflection on their impact or a quote that encapsulates their philosophy. This leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Who Should Write the Obituary?
Deciding who should write the obituary can be challenging, especially when considering the emotional burden of the task.
Family Members
Often, a close family member may be the best choice as they can provide insight into the entrepreneur’s personal and professional life.
Professional Writers
Hiring a professional writer can be beneficial, especially if the family is struggling with the emotional aspect. Professionals can ensure that the obituary is well-written and respectful.
Collaborative Efforts
Sometimes, a collaborative approach works best, where family members and friends contribute to the writing process. This can help capture a more rounded view of the entrepreneur’s life.
What Tone Should Be Used in the Obituary?
The tone of the obituary is crucial, as it reflects the personality of the entrepreneur and respects their memory.
Formal Yet Personal
Strive for a balance between professionalism and personal warmth. While an obituary is a formal document, it should also convey the unique personality of the entrepreneur.
Reflective and Celebratory
Use a tone that celebrates their life and contributions. Include anecdotes or stories that illustrate their character and achievements.
Avoiding Clichés
Try to avoid overused phrases and sentiments. Instead, focus on specific examples that highlight the entrepreneur’s individuality and impact.
How to Share the Obituary?
Once the obituary is written, sharing it appropriately is essential to honor the entrepreneur’s memory.
Publishing in Newspapers
Consider publishing the obituary in local newspapers, which can reach a wider audience, especially those who may have known the entrepreneur.
Online Platforms
Utilize online platforms and social media to share the obituary. Websites like Legacy.com can help you reach a broader audience.
Family and Friends Notification
Ensure that family and close friends are informed about the obituary’s publication, allowing them to share it within their networks.
Why is an Obituary Important for an Entrepreneur?
An obituary serves as a lasting tribute to an entrepreneur, highlighting their achievements and contributions to society.
Legacy Preservation
Writing an obituary helps preserve the entrepreneur’s legacy, ensuring their impact is remembered and celebrated by future generations.
Closure for Loved Ones
For family and friends, reading the obituary can provide a sense of closure and a moment to reflect on the entrepreneur’s life and impact.
Inspiration for Others
Sharing their story can inspire others, especially budding entrepreneurs who may look up to them as role models in their respective fields.