Does rigor mortis always occur? My friend just passed away last week and i noticed that his body was still as 'soft' as alive and by the time i touched him (wear new clothe), it was already 8 hrs after death. He died of heart disease.

May i know why is it so? I read some articles somewhere which stated that this question still remain an open one as to-date, no conclusive answer obtained. Or rigor mortis will not occur everytime to everyone?

Thank you.

fredg

Hi,
Yes, it will occur sooner or later. The time depends on the temperature.
Here is a good link, with full explanations:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rigor_mortis

I do wish you the best.