What is Cremation? - Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre

Part of making funeral arrangements on behalf of a loved one involves choosing between burial of the body, or cremation. Certainly this is a big decision, based on any number of factors: religious or spiritual beliefs, psychological concerns if not choosing casket burial or arranging viewing, 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. We have attempted to explain it below, however, if the content here raises additional questions for you, please give us a call at 204-727-0330.

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 discuss more in depth what cremation actually is.

What is Required to Arrange for Cremation?

Once the cremation 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. Once all authorization documents are signed, the body can be transported from the funeral home to the crematorium and the cremation process can take place. However, there are some additional items you may wish to consider, such as:

1. Will there be an opportunity for the family or friends to pay their respects? Many families don't realize that viewing or visitation is still a possibility.  This may be a time just for the family or invited guests or a time that is open to the public. Is there a special set of clothes (such as a military uniform or favorite dress) you would want your loved one to be dressed in? This will be a focus of the cremation arrangement conversation, and you will be advised by your funeral director as to your best options regarding jewelry or other valuable personal items. Specialized ceremonial caskets are available for this choice of service.
2. Are there any keepsake items you'd like to include in their cremation container? 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.
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 to bring interested family or friends into the crematorium. Please discuss your desire to participate with your funeral director.

Is it Time to Speak with One of Our Funeral Directors?

We encourage open dialogue about all end-of-life issues, and sincerely hope you reach out to us to discuss the questions and concerns you may have related to cremation and burial. Call us today at 204-727-0330 to ask a question or to set an appointment (either in your home or our office). We look forward to the conversation.