Today, more and more Canadians are choosing cremation as an alternative to traditional burial. Although cremation may seem like the simpler choice, in reality there are many options to consider.
Just like burial, choosing cremation allows you to have a funeral or memorial service. While many families appreciate the traditional comfort of a visitation and a formal funeral service, others prefer an alternative gathering that celebrates their loved one’s own unique style.
Cemetery Options for your cremated remains
There are also a wide range of options for the final disposition of cremated remains. Many people choose a cemetery setting, which provides a permanent and well-maintained place to visit year-round and remember.
Urns are available in such materials as bronze, marble and wood, and can be customized with an inscription or emblem. An urn can be buried in a special cremation garden, or placed in niche, often indoors, protected from the elements for easier year-round visits.
Many Arbor cemeteries offer nature walks, which provide memorials in a peaceful natural setting for your urn. You can even choose from a selection of keepsake urns, jewelry and memorial record packages, ensuring your loved one’s memory is with you forever.
Cremation FAQs
What is the cremation process?
The container or casket containing the deceased is transported to the crematorium where it isplaced in a cremation chamber and through the application of intense heat, is reduced to bone,commonly known as cremated remains. The cremated remains are carefully removed from the cremation chamber and processed into fine particles. These cremated remains are placed in a temporary container or permanent urn, ready for final disposition and memorialization.
Is the cremation performed right away?
Cremations are performed as soon as possible after the body has been transferred to the crematorium or at a time requested by the family. All crematoria require a coroner’s certificate before the cremation takes place. In many circumstances, cremations are performed within 72 hours after a death which gives time to complete the required documentation and schedule the cremation.
Can family members witness the cremation?
At most crematoria, the family may choose to witness the container or casket being placed in the cremation chamber. Some traditions may also select a person to begin the cremation process. This must be arranged in advance.
Is embalming necessary?
While not legally required, many people prefer embalming as an aid in preserving the natural appearance of the deceased while resting in the funeral home. Under certain circumstances, it may also be required in order to conform with health regulations.
Is a casket necessary?
Yes. A casket or a rigid container is required. If selecting a rigid container most crematoriums require that it is enclosed and made of wood or other combustible material to allow for the dignified handling of human remains.
Is the casket or container cremated with the body?
Yes. The container is closed before it arrives at the crematorium and is not opened by the crematorium staff. Any metal on the container, such as handles or other ornaments, are removed whenever possible prior to cremation. Each cremation is performed individually with great care. A controlled labelling system ensures correct identification.
What happens after the cremation?
When the process of cremation is completed, the choice of final disposition and memorialization should be made. The choices for final disposition for cremated remains are many and diverse. No matter how simple or unique, your Arbor Memorial Representative will be pleased to help you choose the cemetery arrangements and memorialization that is right for you. Most choose a cemetery as the place to memorialize. A cemetery is forever. It provides permanency and security, a place to visit year-round and remember.
What is the advantage of choosing a cemetery for cremated remains?
A cemetery is forever. It provides permanency and security, a place to visit year-round and remember.
Do I have a choice of urns?
Yes. There are many styles of urns available in such materials as bronze, marble and wood.Some are quite elaborate works of art. Many families like to personalize the urn with an inscription or emblem.
Can I bury the cremated remains?
Yes. Most cemeteries have special cremation gardens for those who prefer burial of cremated remains. These gardens are beautifully landscaped areas in a natural setting and can accommodate various expressions of memorialization.
Can I use my family burial lot?
If you already own or have access to a family lot, you may choose to inter the remains there. If this is your intent, you should contact the cemetery management before proceeding, to establish whether their regulations permit this. Proper authorization must be given before accessing a family lot.
I prefer cremation, but my spouse prefers traditional burial. What should we do?
Simply choose a lot or crypt in a cemetery that allows for the burial of both a casket and an urn together.
What is a niche?
A niche is a recessed compartment for the permanent housing of urns. A structure known as a columbarium is a collection of many niches. The columbarium may be part of an outdoor setting or be a complete building with alcoves and corridors. Niches are designed to accommodate individual or companion urns and may be enclosed by glass, marble or granite fronts.
Is cremation less expensive than traditional ground burial?
It can be. It depends on the services selected, where the cremated remains will be placed, what kind of urn, casket or container is selected, and what type of funeral or memorial service is chosen.
Can I have a funeral or memorial service if I choose cremation?
Yes. Cremation does not rule out a traditional funeral, Celebration of Life or memorial service. Prior to cremation, there are often visitations and services held at the funeral home, church or crematorium chapel.
If I choose cremation, can I have a memorial marker?
Yes. Cremation provides for a wide range of memorialization. A memorial is the acknowledgement and commemoration of a person’s life. It is not only a dignified way of honouring a loved one, but plays an important role in the grieving process.
Can arrangements be made in advance?
Yes. Cremation, Celebration of Life and cemetery arrangements can be arranged and paid for in advance. The money paid is protected by law and a contract ensures you receive the products and services you purchased. There are many flexible financial options for customers who wish to pay ahead.
Where can I get more information?
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the cemetery office and ask to speak with an Arbor Memorial representative. To find the nearest location, click here.
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