What is Cremation?
The modern practice
of cremation dates back to the middle of the 19th century. Cremation
is the process of reducing the body to bone fragments through the
application of intense heat. This usually takes two to three hours
and occurs in a special type of furnace known as a cremation chamber
or retort. The remaining fragments are processed into a finer substance
and placed in a temporary container.
Many people believe that at the time of death only two basic choices
exist: immediate cremation or what might be thought of as a "traditional"
funeral that includes viewing and burial. Actually several options
are available in between. Cremation is simply one form of disposition
(method of caring for the body). There are several opportunities to
create meaningful experiences that include cremation
The Funeral Service and Cremation
Just like burial, cremation can occur after a funeral where the casket
is present. The funeral may be preceded by a public visitation or
reception at a location chosen by the family. During this time,
the casket may be open or closed. Some families may choose to have a private gathering.
Following the funeral ceremony, the body is cremated in the casket or placed in a
special cremation container. After cremation, a public or private service may be
arranged for the final placement of the cremated remains.
The Memorial Service and Cremation
A memorial service, like a funeral, is a service of remembrance, only
without the body present. Regardless of where the service is held,
we can assist you in planning and organizing it. An urn may be present,
as a casket would be for a funeral. Sometimes, photographs and /or other memorabilia
are displayed. As with a funeral service, the family may wish to hold a visitation or reception
prior to the memorial service.
Depending on where the death occurred, state or provincial laws may require a "waiting period"
to occur before cremation can take place. We can advise you as to the regulations in our area and assist you accordingly.
Other Service Options
These descriptions are simply general types of cremation alternatives.
There are literally options within options in creating a service that
will be as unique as the person being remembered. Your choices are
not required to fit into any particular category. Tell us your thoughts,
and we can offer our suggestions on planning a service that will have
a special meaning
The Cost of
Cremation
In general the cost of cremation as a mode of disposition is less than
that of burial or entombment.
However, cremation charges vary in different locations. And, the total
cost will vary depending on what additional services are selected. We
will provide a current General Price List with a complete listing of
charges, so you can evaluate costs in light of your situation.
Important Considerations.
- Crematories generally require that a body be enclosed in a rigid
container, providing for the health and safety of the operator and
the dignity of the deceased. A range of caskets are available which
are suited for formal services followed by cremation, or we can
review other alternatives as well. An urn serves the same purpose after cremation that a casket
does for burial: it holds the remains and becomes part of the memorial
site. There are many styles and types of urns available
- Embalming is often a matter of practical consideration for a service
with the body present. For immediate cremation, embalming is not
required. We can review with you any legal and health regulations
for our area regarding embalming.
Memorialization
Memorialization is
the act of establishing a permanent means to commemorate the life of the deceased.
Several choices are available including the following.
Inurnment
The urn may be placed within a niche in a columbarium. Columbaria are most often located within a cemetery and may be an entire building, a room or a series of niches
built as part of a garden wall. Outdoor settings may include niches built as part of a garden wall.
You may be able to include a memorial plaque or nameplate.
Burial
Some people prefer earth burial of the urn, just as a casket. Cemeteries often have special urn gardens or a standard
cemetery plot may be used.
Scattering
Some cemeteries also provide areas for the scattering of cremated remains. Some people scatter cremated remained in the air or
over water. While this is legal in many areas, this is a decision that should be carefully considered. Many people need a specific location to go for reflection. The emotional need often surfaces
later and may be overlooked if scattering takes place too quickly.
Service Options:
