MINNETONKA, Minn. (KMSP) - Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall in Minnetonka will be holding a private Prince memorial service on Sunday, according to Minnetonka city officials.
City spokeswoman Kari Spreeman said Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall asked Minnetonka Police for help with traffic control for a private event on Sunday at 5 p.m. Spreeman said the church is expecting 300 to 500 people for the private, invite-only event.
“It’s the police and city’s understanding that this is a memorial service for Prince,” said Spreeman. “The church is asking for privacy.”
RECAP:
Prince was found dead the morning of April 21 at his Paisley Park estate in Chanhassen, Minnesota. Paisley Park is the compound where Prince lives, records music and hosts parties and concerts, including one party just a few days before he passed away. Prince fans quickly gathered at Paisley Park and at the iconic First Avenue in downtown Minneapolis to share memories of the pop star.
Last week, Prince's family released a statement revealing that an official memorial service and public event is being planned for the near future. The family made clear that "contrary to previous and current reports, there has been no memorial, funeral or tribute service for Prince."
Full statement from Prince's family:
"We would like everyone to know that, contrary to previous and current reports, there has been no memorial, funeral or tribute service for Prince that was organized or authorized by the family or Paisley Park representatives. Together, the family is planning an official memorial service and public event to take place in the near future. Prince and his music influenced so many people that we feel inspired to celebrate his life and legacy in just the right way. We appreciate the public’s patience and have been comforted by your outpouring of love, support and condolences. We look forward to sharing with the world this celebration of, and farewell to, our Prince. Details will be coming soon."
— Alfred Jackson, John Nelson, Norrine Nelson, Omarr Baker, Sharon Nelson, and Tyka Nelson