No, cremation is simply a method of preparing human remains for final disposition.

No – actually, only a small percentage of cremation service providers have their own crematories. Most of them have to surrender custody of deceased persons into a third party’s hands. However, we have our own crematories, so your loved one never has to leave our care.

We offer several ceremonial caskets for viewing or funeral services prior to cremation. The ceremonial (or rental) caskets are specifically designed to provide an aesthetically pleasing, affordable and environmentally prudent alternative to purchasing a casket for a cremation service.

There is a choice of very affordable cremation caskets that are completely combustible. The selection includes options from a simple pine or cloth-covered casket to a hardwood casket.

No. For sanitary reasons, ease of placement and dignity, many crematories require that the deceased be cremated in a combustible, leak-proof, rigid, covered container. This does not need to be a casket as such. What is required is a rigid container made of wood or other combustible material to allow for the dignified handling of human remains. The type of casket or container selected is really a personal decision. Caskets and containers are available in a wide variety of materials ranging from simple cardboard containers to beautifully handcrafted oak, maple or mahogany caskets.

No. In most cases it’s your choice. It may depend on 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.

Incineration of the cremation casket/container and contents is accomplished and most substances are consumed, except bone fragments (calcium compounds), which will normally weigh several pounds in the case of an average size adult.

Mechanical or radioactive devices in the deceased may create a hazardous condition when placed in the cremation chamber. It is imperative that these items be removed prior to cremation. In addition, any special mementos placed with the deceased’s remains, such as jewelry, will be destroyed during the cremation process.

Cremation cannot take place until the following legal documents have been finalized: the death certificate is signed by the certifier (physician or medical examiner/coroner), the funeral director, and the county registrar. A burial-transit permit is issued by the county in which the death occurs. The next of kin gives written permission for the cremation unless the deceased signed their own cremation authorization prior to their death.

Yes, the body is exposed to direct heat and flame. Cremation is performed by placing the deceased in a casket or other container and then placing the casket or container into a cremation chamber or retort, where they are subjected to intense heat and flame.