A cremation is a method of disposal of human remains. It is an alternative to burial or mausoleum entombment. Cremation dates back to ancient times and has become significantly more and more popular in recent years.

A cremation involves a process of reducing the body to bone fragments by applying intense heat over a period of a few hours. After being processed into finer fragments, the cremated remains, which can weigh between one (1) and three (3) kilograms (3-6 pounds), are placed in an appropriate urn for final disposition.

Can there be funeral services or ceremonies if cremation is chosen?

A cremation does not limit, but in fact increases the options available. The options for ceremonies prior to or following the cremation can include the selection of a casket or an urn, visitation with the body present (or memorial visitation where the urn is the focal point), a display of photographs or personal effects and awards, the location of the funeral ceremony and selection of music.

What happens with the cremated remains?

There are several options of what can happen to the cremated remains that are available:

Burial:
The urn may be buried in an existing family plot, in a new plot or urn garden.

Inurnment:
The urn can be placed in a memorial niche in a cemetery columbarium.

Scattering:
Some cemeteries have special gardens where cremated remains can be scattered. Cremated remains can also be scattered on public or private land if authorization from the owner is obtained. Since scattering is an irreversible decision, the romantic appeal of land and water does not allow a permanent memorial site, in which case emotional value is worth consideration.

What costs are involved with cremation?

The cost involved is the funeral home services cost which varies according to the type of ceremony involved; the cost of the merchandise such as the casket or the cremation container and the urn; the cost of the crematorium and also the cost of the disposition of cremated remains.

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