Funeral Information

Cremation > Options

Services & Gatherings

Many believe that choosing cremation means being limited to a simple service or no service at all. The fact is, cremation in no way prevents family and friends from participating in the traditions, ceremonies or rituals of a funeral service.

Again, like earth burial or entombment, there are many options:

• cremation with public or private viewing only
• cremation with viewing and/or ceremo­nies
• cremation with memorial service and no viewing
• cremation with full ceremonies
• or cremation with no ceremonies

These are the most common choices, but you can personalize services to suit your traditions or customs.

When people realize these choices are avaiable, the majority select some type of ceremony, viewing, etc. Ceremonies and viewings are in­tended to help survivors by providing an opportu­nity to acknowledge the loss and celebrate the life of the deceased. They provide a time for loved ones to release their feelings and share their grief, so the healing process can begin.

The following information on Memorial service, Cremation with no ceremony, Embalming and Final disposition may be helpful.

Memorial service
The only difference between a funeral service and a memorial service is that the body is not always present at a memorial service. During a memorial service, however, cremated remains may be present in an urn. Often, the family will have chosen to view the body before the cremation and memorial service.

Cremation with no ceremony
A funeral director should be contacted for removal of the deceased when the choice is cremation with no ceremony or immediate crema­tion. Immediate cremation, however, should be given serious thought. When immediate cremation is desired, it generally takes place without embalming,­ viewing, ceremony, gathering or other elements of a funeral service. Survivors often regret not having some form of service, ceremony or viewing to provide the opportunity to say goodbye. It has been proven that taking part in the processes of arranging and attending funeral ceremonies can be therapeutic in the healing process. So be sure to consider all of your options before making this important decision.

Embalming
Requirements for embalming vary, depending on selection of services by the family and state/local or provincial law. If the family chooses to view the body, embalming is generally necessary according to funeral home policy. In the case of immediate cremation, embalming is not normally required. Be sure you understand the regulations in your area, and consult with your Golden Rule Funeral Home, as regulations may vary within your state or province.

Final disposition
What to do with the cremated remains? This is another important decision when choosing cremation. Again, you have several options.

Some prefer to keep the cremated remains in theirl possession. Others feel it is more appropriate to put the cremated remains in a formal or permanent location.

It is common to bury the urn as you would bury a casket. This allows families to remain together in a burial plot regardless of each family member's choice of preparation for final disposition. The burial site offers a permanent place for loved ones to visit and reflect on the life of the deceased. Burial also can be in an urn garden or private crypt.

A columbarium also provides a permanent place for the family to visit. The columbarium niche is marked with a nameplate listing dates of birth and death. This choice is ideal for those who prefer above-ground entombment.

Scattering is also an option for final disposi­tion of cremated remains. Cremated remains are often spread over a lake, river, ocean, mountain, field or scattering garden. If you are interested in scattering, your funeral director can give you details about the regulations in your area and can also make the arrangements for you. Consider future generations before you make your decision to scatter, because once it is done, it is irreversible.