What is Cremation?

Part of making funeral arrangements on behalf of a loved one involves choosing between earth burial of the remains or cremation. Certainly this is a big decision, based on any number of factors: religious or spiritual beliefs, finances, or ecological awareness are just some of the reasons we've heard for choosing cremation. Before you can make the choice, you need to know exactly what it is you're considering. You can learn the basics below, however, if the content here raises additional questions for you, please give us a call at 613.359.5555. We will be able to address any of your inquiries or concerns.

Cremation Explained

The Cremation Association of North America describes cremation as, "The mechanical and/or thermal or other dissolution process that reduces human remains to bone fragments".  On our page, The Cremation Process, we offer a deeper look at the most common cremation process which uses extreme heat. 

As we said earlier,some  people choose cremation over earth burial for any combination of reasons. Sometimes it's the simple fear of burial itself, which may stem directly from the Victorian phobia of being buried alive. Or it could be they are uncomfortable with the very idea and imagery of physical decomposition. 

What is Required to Arrange for Cremation?

Once the cremation-over-earth burial decision has been made, all that's required is authorization. This is provided by the person who is the legally identified or appointed next-of-kin or estate trustee. Once all authorization documents are signed, and procedures and costs are acknowledged and understood; the remains can be transported from the place of death to the crematory and the cremation process can take place. However, there are some additional things you may wish to consider, such as:

1. Is there a special set of clothes (such as a military uniform or favorite dress) your loved one would appreciate the thought of wearing? If clothing is deemed not necessary the funeral home will provide and dress the remains in a quilted like linen shroud at no charge. You will be advised by your funeral director as to your best options regarding jewelry or other valuable personal items.
2. Are there any keepsake items you'd like to include in the cremation casket? Perhaps there's a special memento, such as a treasured photograph or letter? We sometimes suggest family members write cards, notes or letters to their deceased loved one, and place them in the casket prior to the cremation. Only items of a combustible nature can be allowed under current legislation. Your funeral director will provide any of these details at the time of the funeral arrangement conference.
3. Would you or other family members like to be present for–or participate to some degree in–your loved one's cremation? Because we know how healing it can be to take part in an act of "letting go", we welcome the opportunity for you to bring a select few of interested family members to the Crematorium. Please discuss your desire to participate with your funeral director, he/she will advise you on availability and costs for this option.

Is it Time to Speak with One of Our Cremation Specialists?

We encourage open dialog about all end-of-life issues, and sincerely hope you reach out to us to discuss the topics related to cremation and burial. Call us today at 613.359.5555 to ask a question or to set an appointment (either in your home or our office). We look forward to the conversation.

Sources:
What is Cremation, Cremation Association of North America