When a loved one passes away, it is common for family members to take on the responsibility of writing an obituary. These pieces are typically emotional and heartfelt, reflecting the affection they felt for the deceased. However, not all families aim for a highly complimentary obituary; some may choose to be bluntly honest about their loved one’s life.

Obituaries are usually shared publicly, either through newspapers or online platforms, meaning they can reach a wide audience, from a few people to potentially hundreds. One notable obituary sheds light on family discord. Kathleen Dehmlow’s two adult children composed an obituary for their mother and shared it with their entire community. At first glance, it resembles a standard tribute, but as you read further, it becomes clear there were unresolved family issues. The ending is particularly shocking, though oddly humorous.

The Redwood Falls Gazette published the obituary, but it was removed after receiving significant backlash. A family member confirmed the obituary’s accuracy, though it was said to lack a “significant amount of omitted information.” Dwight, a family member who was interviewed, shared a different perspective, stating that Kathleen had made a mistake sixty years ago but had shown remorse, reminding us that everyone makes mistakes.

Despite this, the person who wrote the obituary chose to leave on a bitter note, likely causing discomfort for many readers. Some even questioned whether the obituary should have been published at all. The newspaper’s CEO responded by confirming there was no legal reason to prevent its publication, noting that their partners maintain strict editorial standards and took the concerns seriously by reviewing the piece carefully.