Cremation Services
Simply put, Cremation is the accelerated reduction of the remains to ash, through the process of heat and fire.
There are many misconceptions about cremation such as it is more environmentally friendly than traditional burial. We urge families to consider whichever option suits them best at the time of need. With cremation rates steadily on the rise, it begs the question "Will there still be traditional burial in 50 years?" Each funeral is as unique as the individual so our answer is yes. Families will continue to follow in the path of their previous generations and we will continue to serve our families to the best of our capability.
Decomposition of the body in the earth (after burial) is the slow oxidation of the body tissues. Cremation, on the other hand, provides rapid oxidation.
No casket is legally required for cremation, just a simple container, which is strong enough to hold the body. This could be a box of rough boards, pressboard, or heavy cardboard.
Some crematories accept metal caskets; most require the container to be combustible.
Cremation Choices
If the body is cremated:
- You may have the funeral home take the remains in the simple cardboard box to the crematory.
- You may either bury or scatter the cremated remains at a location of your choosing.
- The remains can be placed in a niche within a columbarium.
- The remains can be buried in the ground in a regular plot or in a smaller cremation plot.
- The remains can be scattered at a later date, at a location of your choosing. (Ask your funeral director concerning local, state laws regarding scattering)
Why People Choose Cremation
Those who choose cremation (for themselves or others) often hold the belief that it is easier, less expensive and or just their personal preference. Many do not like viewing of the deceased following death and want to avoid dealing with their grief and loss by cremating as soon as possible thinking that it will be easier and less threatening.
Other Reasons You Might Choose Cremation
- Many people believe that a cremated body becomes one with nature more quickly. Cremation is traditional in your family, religious group, or geographical area
- You prefer the body to be returned quickly and cleanly to the elements
- You have environmental concerns
- Perhaps you are worried about the use of valuable land for cemetery space, or believe it is wrong to fill the ground with materials that won't erode ... metal coffins and concrete vaults.
- You want to keep the costs down
- Selecting cremation does not mean, however, that you cannot have a funeral or Memorial Service.
- You might still choose a casket and/or a viewing, and/or decide to have the cremated remains buried in the ground or placed in a columbarium. These choices will determine what your costs will be.
Decisions You Must Make If You Choose Cremation
- Who will do the cremation
- Whether to use an urn or container
- What to do with the cremated remains
- If you are dividing or distributing the cremated remains
- Some jurisdictions have laws prohibiting the scattering of remains; others require a permit. Ask your funeral director.
Also, ask if there are any firms in your area that specialize in unique ways of distributing the remains, such as a plane to spread them over a mountain, or a ship to scatter them at sea.
Think of places that were especially loved by the deceased, close to home or far away. You can walk in the woods, by a favorite lake, or on the old family farm.
Be sure to ask permission if you want to use private property.
What about using the remains to create new life, by planting a tree? Some survivors choose to mix the remains with the soil in flowerbeds and rose gardens at home. Every time the roses bloom, you will be reminded of your loved one. If you decide to do this, however, consider what will happen if, some day, you move away.
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