Choosing Cremation

For some, making the choice to be cremated is an easy one. For others, it is more difficult, especially if there are conflicting views amongst close family members or if cremation strictly goes against their religion.

The thing to remember is that if you do choose cremation, you may still participate in all the usual funeral rites and rituals. Funeral or memorial services can still take place either before or after cremation.

What is Cremation?

Cremation is now a popular alternative to burial. The body is usually put in a rigidly constructed, combustible container with handles. A homemade container is acceptable as long as it meets these requirements.

When a person is cremated the body is burned to ashes at a crematorium. What remains is pulverized bone and ash (approximately 2-3 kilograms for an adult) that is put inside an urn chosen either by the surviving family or by the deceased prior to death. What happens after that can vary greatly depending on the wishes of the deceased or the surviving family. Some people want the ashes scattered at sea; some wish to have their ashes scattered on their garden or at a place with great sentimental meaning. It is always wise to check with the local health or bylaw authorities to ensure that scattering is permissible.

Alternatively, some people bury the ashes or just keep the urn on the mantelpiece. Urns may also be kept in a columbarium. This is a form of vault that has spaces where urns that contain the cremated remains of loved ones can be kept.

"What is Cremation?" adapted from: The State of New York, Department of Health Web Site. A special thanks to Carl Good and Joyce Kufta, of Newcastle Funeral Home, for reviewing FAQs about arranging a funeral.