Cremation Information

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.

What is Required to Arrange for Cremation?

Once the cremation decision has been made, the family may meet with Caring Cremations funeral director or complete the online arrangement form. This information is used for the creation of the death certificate. The legal next-of-kin may be one or more persons and will be required to sign the cremation authorization either in person, via fax or email. The other required document is the death certificate signed by the doctor. Once all authorization documents are signed, and service charges are paid; the cremation process can take place. However, there are some additional things you may wish to consider, such as:

Is there special clothing (such as a military uniform or favorite dress) your loved one would appreciate the thought of wearing? T
Are there any keepsake items you'd like to include in their 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.
Would you or other family members like to be present for, or participate to some degree in your loved one's cremation? You may view the placement of the body into the cremation chamber from a viewing window or you may help with the placement.
What will you keep the cremains or ashes in after the cremation or the ceremony? Many families are unaware that they can purchase an urn to be placed in the family home. We offer a large selection of urns that will help memorialize your loved one. Other options include burial, entombment in a niche in one of our columbariums or placement in our cremation garden. Please ask us to explain these options.