Custer County Obituary Records
Custer County death records are available through the Fremont County Department of Public Health or the Colorado Department of Public Health. The Custer County Clerk and Recorder office can assist with locating vital records resources. This mountain county in south-central Colorado shares health services with neighboring counties. Residents can access obituary and death certificate information through regional health departments or state offices. Historical records may be found through local historical societies.
Custer County Clerk and Recorder Office
The Custer County Clerk and Recorder provides information about vital records access. Their office is at 205 S. 6th Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252. You can contact them at 719-783-2441. They maintain local records and can direct you to death certificate services.
For death certificates, Custer County residents typically use the Fremont County Department of Public Health. This neighboring county provides regional vital records services. Contact them at 719-275-7465 for current procedures.
You may also order directly from the Colorado Department of Public Health. State offices handle requests for all Colorado counties. This option works well for those who prefer mail or online ordering.
Note: Custer County is in a rural mountain area. Regional health services may require travel to neighboring counties.
Colorado State Vital Records for Custer County
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment maintains all death records for Custer County. Their Denver office processes all requests. Call 303-692-2200 for assistance.
Under C.R.S. § 25-2-117, death certificates remain confidential. Access is limited to qualified applicants. You must show direct and tangible interest in the record.
Eligible requesters include immediate family members, legal representatives, and authorized agencies. Spouses, parents, children, and siblings qualify with proper documentation.
Current fees are $25 for the first copy and $20 for each additional copy ordered together. These rates took effect January 1, 2026. Credit card payments may incur convenience fees.
Finding Custer County Obituaries
Local newspapers in Westcliffe publish Custer County obituaries. The Wet Mountain Tribune covers local deaths and memorial services. Check their current and archived editions for notices.
The Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection offers free online access. Search for Custer County obituaries in historical publications. This resource is valuable for genealogical research.
Find A Grave documents cemeteries in Custer County. This free database includes burial locations and gravestone photos. Community volunteers contribute memorial pages.
The Colorado State Archives holds pre-1908 death records. For Custer County deaths before 1975, contact the state vital records office.
Genealogy Research in Custer County
Family historians can research Custer County deaths through multiple resources. The Colorado State Archives holds pre-1908 records. Contact them at 303-866-2358.
Death certificates become public after 75 years. Genealogical researchers can access records over 25 years old marked for research use only. These copies are not valid for legal purposes.
FamilySearch provides free genealogy guidance. Their wiki includes links to Colorado databases and research strategies.
Local historical societies may have additional resources for Custer County research. Cemetery records can supplement official death certificates.
Eligibility for Custer County Death Records
Custer County follows Colorado state law regarding death record access. C.R.S. § 25-2-118 defines eligible requesters. Immediate family members have priority.
You may request a death certificate if you are the spouse, parent, adult child, or sibling of the deceased. You must provide documentation proving your relationship. Legal representatives need court orders.
All applicants must present valid photo identification. Digital IDs are not accepted. Documents must be intact and legible.