The cremation process

A Short History of Cremation

Historical evidence shows that cremation has been practiced by humans for thousands of years. In Australia, it dates back at least 20,000 years, while in Europe the earliest traces appear around 2,000 B.C. The custom was widespread in ancient Greece and Rome, and it continues to be a central tradition in India today. In contrast, cremation gradually declined in Europe after the fifth century, and during the Middle Ages it was used mainly in the punishment of heretics or as a response to outbreaks of disease. In modern times, however, cremation has re-emerged as a preferred choice for an ever-growing number of people worldwide.

If no prior arrangements have been made, the responsibility of choosing a cemetery and selecting a burial space will fall to you. While today’s families have access to more information than ever before, purchasing cemetery property is not something most people do often. To help guide you, here are a few important points to understand:

Ownership of rights, not land: When you buy a burial plot, crypt, or columbarium niche, you are purchasing the right to inter one or more individuals there. The land itself remains under the care and ownership of the cemetery.

Ongoing care: A portion of your payment goes into an irrevocable fund that helps cover the perpetual upkeep of the cemetery grounds.

Cemetery by-laws: Burial and future visits will be subject to the rules and regulations established by the cemetery’s administration.

Cost considerations: Just like real estate, the price of cemetery property can vary widely depending on its location within the grounds. While advance planning may allow you to find resale opportunities, families making arrangements at the time of need may not benefit from these options.

Additional expenses: Beyond the cost of the burial property itself, there are other fees to consider, including the opening and closing of the grave, the purchase and installation of a marker or headstone, and the cost of a casket and burial vault.

Because of our strong relationships with local cemeteries, we can help simplify this process and guide you through each step with clarity and care.

The Flame Cremation Process

Traditional cremation involves placing the body in extremely high heat, reducing it to fragments of bone, which are then refined into the form most people recognize as “ashes.” These cremated remains are returned to the family in either a standard temporary container or in an urn chosen specifically for their loved one. Families may decide to keep the urn at home, bury it, scatter the ashes in a meaningful location, or even incorporate a portion into custom memorial art.

In modern crematories, the process begins with care and preparation. The body is held in a temperature-controlled environment until the proper authorizations are complete. Any medical devices or items that could be hazardous during cremation—such as pacemakers or certain implants—are removed. The body is then placed in a simple container made from combustible materials like wood or cardboard.

This container is transferred into the cremation chamber, where the process typically takes two to three hours for an adult. Once complete, the remains are carefully cooled, then processed into a fine, uniform substance before being placed in an urn. At that point, the funeral director returns the cremated remains to the family for memorialization in whatever way they choose.

Cremation Costs

On average, cremation costs about one-third of what a traditional burial might. While affordability is certainly a consideration for many families, it’s important to remember that cremation is just one aspect of honoring a loved one’s life. True healing often comes through gathering together, sharing stories, and offering mutual support. A thoughtfully planned memorial service provides that opportunity, helping family and friends find comfort while celebrating the life that was lived.