When you start the letter, you want to mention the name of the deceased and acknowledge their passing. Acknowledge the loss and name the deceased.Keep the letter as brief and as short as possible. Navigating what paperwork to fill out when a loved one passes away can be confusing and overwhelming. Below is a checklist to help:. Holding you close in our thoughts and sending gentle wishes of comfort and consolation from across the street. Holding you close in our thoughts and sending gentle wishes of comfort and consolation from across the street. I'm reaching out to let you know how sorry I am about Joe. " The envelope was postmarked December 21 in Roselle, Illinois, where my dad's office was located. I pulled out the letter.