CREMATION 

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.

Any type of wooden casket is suitable for cremation.  Although most families still have a visitation and funeral service prior to the cremation taking place, some may choose to have the cremation occur first followed by their time of visitation and/or funeral service.  In this case, a casket may not be required, but a minimal cremation container is still necessary.

Cremation Choices

If the body is cremated ...

  • 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 entombed in a crypt within a mausoleum.
  • The remains can be stored by the family - and perhaps kept on display - in an urn or other container.
  • You may take the remains and distribute ("scatter") them over the land or water.

Here are some reasons you might choose cremation:

1. Cremation is traditional in your family, religious group, or geographical area

2. You prefer the body to be returned quickly and cleanly to the elements

  • Many people believe that a cremated body becomes one with nature more quickly.

3. You have environmental concerns

4. 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.

Decisions You Must Make If You Choose Cremation

  • Which casket or cremation container best suits your needs and wishes.
  • Which urn best suits your needs and wishes, and best reflects the life of your loved one.

If you are distributing the remains....

Some jurisdictions have laws prohibiting the scattering of remains; others require a permit.  Ask your funeral director.

Think of places that were especially loved by the deceased, close to home or far away. You can walk in the woods, by a favourite 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.