WHAT IS INVOLVED IN THE CREMATION PROCESS?  
Before cremation occurs, the death certificate must be completed and signed by the attending physician or medical examiner, and all civil and medical authorities must have issued all required permits. In addition, necessary authorizations to cremate must be obtained from the next of kin or authorizing person, no objections to the cremation can be raised and a minimum of 48 hours must have transpired since the death occurred. The cremation then takes place and the cremated remains are placed in the designated container or urn selected for final disposition.

IS A CASKET NEEDED FOR CREMATION?
   No, a casket is not required for cremation.  All that is required by law is an alternative container made of cardboard or wood, which is cremated with the body.  The only time a casket is required is when the family chooses a public service with the body present prior to cremation.  For these occasions, we offer a selection of inexpensive cremation caskets. 

WHAT ABOUT A MEMORIAL SERVICE OR A TRIBUTE?
   Not long ago, people thought that if they chose cremation, they could not have a traditional interment or memorial service.  But today’s contemporary funeral traditions offer many service choices to those who prefer cremation.  You can select one of several beautiful chapels available.  A memorial service can even be held at a lodge, your own church, or any other meaningful location.  Remember, funeral services and memorials aren’t provided for the deceased-they are to help support and comfort the living.  Take time to consider family and friends and their need to work through the grieving process before you make this decision. 

WHERE DO I KEEP OR STORE THE ASHES?
   At Community Cremation Service, we find most people who prefer cremation want permanent placement of their remains.  That’s because humans have an inner need to memorialize and to celebrate life.  Memorialization announces to the world that a life has been lived.  It also serves as a focal point for the grief that accompanies a loss and provides comfort to loved ones.
   With cremation, you actually have more choices for a final resting place than with an earth burial.  Urns are one way to store ashes.  Many choose to place the urn in a permanent location such as a columbarium, which is an arrangement of niches, indoor or outdoor, with memorial identity plaques.  Cremation also offers you the opportunity to have a ground burial at a local cemetery as well. 

CAN I PLAN MY CREMATION AHEAD OF TIME?
   Yes you can, and we highly recommend it.  Preplanning is the caring thing to do.  Planning ahead allows you to select for yourself exactly what services and merchandise you feel is appropriate for you.  This offers you the peace of mind of knowing that your wishes will be carried out in addition to relieving your family from the responsibility of making the decisions at the time of your death.  This can and should include your decisions regarding memorialization, which can include using a cemetery.  The decisions that you make at the cemetery are important because cemeteries are forever.  Preplanning cemetery choices means that you will never second guess your selection of lot or niche location.