FAQs

Please call the Coroner’s Office and make an appointment to meet with the Coroner.  An application will be given for the disinterment.  The application must be filled out accurately before a permit is issued.  There is a fee for this service.

Please call our office at 920-683-4008 and ask to speak to the Coroner.  For most requests, you will need to provide specific information in writing.  There is a fee for this service for the agencies or individuals requesting information.  Photographs are not provided without a court order to release the photos.

Wisconsin State Statute 979 sets the guidelines for Coroners and Medical Examiners in Wisconsin.  All deaths in Manitowoc County regardless of cause and manner are reportable to the Coroner’s office.  The Coroner and/or Deputy Coroner will determine if our office will need to investigate deaths reported to our office.

An autopsy will be performed when there is a need to establish or confirm a cause and manner of death for the purpose of issuing a death certificate, in cases involving criminal or suspected criminal wrongdoing and in any case which an autopsy is considered to be prudent at the Coroner’s discretion.

Under certain rare circumstances family members are asked to positively identify an individual.  Our office and morgue are not designed for viewing decedents.  We do, however, contact the funeral homes that your loved one is transported to for this purpose.

Selection of a funeral home of your choice is important for your loved ones release from our custody.  Select a funeral home and advise the funeral director of the involvement of our office.  Funeral directors are familiar with the operation of our office and will assist you in making all arrangements for final disposition, including obtaining a death certificate.  The funeral director will also receive the decedent’s personal property that is not being held as evidence.