Indigent Cremation

California State law requires blood relatives to provide for a proper disposition for the remains of the deceased (Health and Safety Code Sections 7100 & 7103). Failure to act in a timely manner is a criminal misdemeanor and could also result in the next of kin being required to pay civil penalties equal to three times the cost of disposition.

Residents of Modoc County may be eligible for assistance with final arrangements of a loved one. For those who qualify, the County provides only a direct cremation. There are no provisions for services, viewing or burial.

If you feel you might qualify for this service, call the Modoc County Department of Social Services for more information. You will be asked to come to the office, answer some basic financial questions, provide documentation, and sign authorization papers.
If the decedent is a Veteran there may be some assistance and/or benefits available through the Veterans Administration.  Contact the local Veterans Services Official if you feel you may qualify.

Scene Clean Up

After a death, there may be a need to either clean or dispose of contaminated clothing, furniture, carpeting, or other personal belongings. The Coroner's Office does not provide these services. Due to the specialized training required for such cleaning, California Health & Safety Code Section 117778 requires businesses to register with the California State Department of Health Services. We suggest you call this agency at (916) 327-6904 for a complete listing of licensed businesses in your area.

Suggestions For Making Funeral Arrangements

If there is no pre-need agreement with a funeral home, final arrangements must be made. You may make these arrangements with any funeral home or mortuary. You may find it helpful to decide on the type of service and disposition the family would prefer prior to calling as it makes it easier to gather and compare information.

In Modoc County contact;

•Kerr Mortuary (Nick A. Contaxis) 400 W. Second St. Alturas, CA 96101 (530) 233-3930