Some facts and frequently asked questions about cremation
Disposition of remains
There is often misunderstanding when a family selects cremation as the final disposition of a loved one. Cremation is not a service or a substitute for a funeral. Families may have any of the services they desire, e.g., visitation and funeral service before cremation. Cremation then follows and a graveside service can then be scheduled. Our flexibility is the key to making funeral services and disposition of remains perfectly tailored to your desires.
Do all funeral homes have a crematory?
No - actually only a small percentage of cremation service providers have their own cremation units.
Is embalming necessary for cremation?
No. In most cases, it is your choice. It may depend on such factors as whether the family selected a service with a public viewing of the body, whether there is to be a funeral service, or whether there is refrigeration available. Embalming may also be necessary if the body is going to be transported by air or rail, or because of the length of time prior to the cremation
Should the service be before or after cremation?
It's completely a matter of family preference. Many times when a family is split regarding the decision to cremate, a compromise may be achieved by having a traditional service first - to be followed by cremation.
What can be done with the cremated remains?
With cremation, your options are numerous. The cremains can be interred in a cemetery plot, retained by a family member, usually in an urn, scattered on private property, or at a place that was significant to the deceased. (It would always be advisable to check for local regulations regarding scattering in a public place.) Cremation is just one step in the commemorative process - the preparation of the human remains for memorialization. Today, there are many different types of memorial options from which to choose. Memorialization is a time-honored tradition that has been practiced for centuries. A memorial serves as a tribute to a life lived and provides a focal point for remembrance, as well as a record for future generations. The type of memorial you choose is a personal decision. The limit is set only by your imagination.
Can I be buried with my spouse even if he or she was in a casket?
Yes - Depending upon the cemetery's policy, you may be able to save a grave space by having the cremains buried on top of the casketed remains of your spouse, or utilize the space provided next to him/her. Many cemeteries allow for multiple cremated remains to be interred in a single grave space.
