There are several factors to think about after the death of a loved one. It may be difficult to keep track of all the available possibilities, much alone know what questions to ask of each, because of the process’s complexity and emotional intensity. Although cremation services in Mount Vernon, WA has become an increasingly popular option, there are still many details to consider. Since we want you to be free to attend to other matters, we have made every effort to simplify the procedure. We understand that this is a time of significant decision making, and whether you end up working with us or another provider, we believe it is in your best interest to have as much information at your disposal as possible.

We’ve compiled a list of key considerations and logistical considerations to keep in mind while planning a cremation. Others of them are questions you should ask your cremation service, and some are ones you should ask yourself.

1. If you need to dispose of something permanently, what are your primary choices?

If you’ve decided on cremation, you’ve probably already given this question some thought. But if you’re on the fence, it’s helpful to understand the variations between cremation and alternative burial practices.

In the West, cremation has gained popularity in recent decades. Even though cremation is a popular option, conventional burial is still the norm. The standard practice of traditional burial is to place the deceased within a coffin before burying them in a grave or mausoleum. In most cases, the corpse will be embalmed, but this is seldom mandated by law; learning more about the embalming process might be useful. Burial in a mausoleum or crypt, which is constructed above earth, is another option. Alkaline hydrolysis (often confusingly referred to as “water cremation,” despite the chemical process being fundamentally distinct from ordinary cremation) and corpse donation to research are two other, less frequent options to think about.

2. What happens during a cremation, exactly?

The traditional method of cremation uses fire to break down a corpse into its elemental parts. A cremation chamber or retort is a specialized furnace used for this purpose. Once the cremation procedure is finished (after about an hour and a half), the metals are removed, and the remains are pulverized to a consistency that resembles ashes. An interim urn is then given back to you.

3. Is a gathering with a viewing of the corpse something you’re interested in planning?

One of the first things to think about is whether you want a funeral or memorial ceremony that involves a viewing of the corpse. This is only one of the many considerations that go into cremation (and we’ll speak about others below). The cremation process may be carried either before or after a funeral, with some minor differences in logistics involved in each scenario.

The corpse does not need to be embalmed for a viewing prior to cremation, but it will need to be refrigerated. Please be aware that no state law mandates embalming, and it is against the law for a funeral director to convince you otherwise.

The urn, photographs, and other memorabilia might be presented during a funeral service held following cremation. The absence of the corpse or ashes from a memorial ceremony does not make it any less legitimate.

4. What exactly is included?

It’s important that you understand this. You probably want to know how much money cremation entails. Make sure you know precisely what’s included in each price tier or package from the supplier you choose by having them walk you through their pricing structure. No one wants to spend more than expected for the cremation casket or the transportation of the ashes, for example, so it’s important to have a detailed list of what you’re getting for the money you’re shelling out.

5. Is a casket needed?

Certainly not! An only need for cremation is that the corpse be put in a hard, totally combustible container with a lid and no metal pieces. The departed can be cared for with respect, and the cremation workers may remain safe. Our simple cremation service includes a fiberboard container, but you are welcome to bring your own or buy one elsewhere if you like. Wooden cremation caskets and rental caskets (which are not incinerated but rather store the corpse and cremation container temporarily) may be given as alternatives to the standard container if desired.

If you want further assistance in the cremation processes, consider cremation Services in Mount Vernon, WA.