The Cremation Process

Cremation has been a part of the human experience for a very long time, and it is fast becoming the choice of many families.

Cremation dates back at least 20,000 years in Australia, while in Europe, there is evidence of cremation dating to around 2,000 B.C. Cremation was common in Ancient Greece and Rome, and it remains a standard practice in India. The practice faded in Europe by the fifth century. However, today, cremation is preferred by more and more people around the world.

The Cremation Process

Traditional cremation is the process of reducing a body at very high temperatures until processed into what we commonly call ashes. Returned to the family in a temporary urn (or a more personal urn selected by the family), these ashes can be kept, buried, or scattered. 

Author Michelle Kim, in How Cremation Works , puts it this way: "In modern crematories, the body is stored in a cool, temperature-controlled room until it's approved for cremation. The body is prepared and then put into a casket made out of flammable materials such as plywood, pine or cardboard."

Once in the cremating chamber, it takes anywhere from two to three hours to reduce to ash. When the cremated remains are cooled, they are processed and placed in an urn. The funeral director then returns the cremated remains to the family.

Cremation typically costs less than a traditional burial, and simple or direct cremation, as it is commonly called, is the most streamlined afterlife service available. While it's true that cost is a factor for many families, it's important to remember that cremation is only one part of providing meaningful end-of-life services for a loved one.

Coming to terms with the loss of a loved one is an important part of achieving closure and peace. Bringing family and friends together provides everyone with the opportunity to share memories, receive support and draw comfort from one another.

We appreciate the opportunity to listen to you and share our insights and experience about cremation if you want more information. At the end of the day, it's about making the most appropriate decision for you and your family. We're simply here to help. 

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