Pittsburgh Cremation Service

Death is a part of life, a part that most of us choose not to think about, let alone plan for. But when a loved one passes away, there are decisions to be made - one of them being how to respect their remains. In Pittsburgh, like much of the rest of the country, cremation is a popular choice. In this article, we’ll explain why and guide you through the process of choosing a cremation service.

Why Choose Cremation

Optionality and Flexibility

Cremation provides more flexibility and options compared to a traditional burial. The ashes can be kept in an urn, scattered in a specific place of importance, or even turned into keepsake jewellery.

Affordability

Generally, cremation is less expensive than a traditional burial. This can make it a more feasible option for many families struggling with the financial implications of losing a loved one.

Eco-Friendliness

For those concerned with their ecological footprint, cremation is also considered more environmentally friendly compared to burials.

Choosing a Cremation Service in Pittsburgh

With numerous cremation services in Pittsburgh, making a decision can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help:

- Conduct thorough research: Compare several options and read reviews and testimonials.

- Validate Credentials: Ensure that the provider is licensed and abides by state and local laws.

- Get a detailed breakdown of the costs.

- Assess their customer care: There should be empathy and understanding, not just professionalism.

Planning the Memorial

Planning a service or a celebration of life can bring comfort and closure. This can take many forms, depending on your loved one's wishes and your family's traditions. Remember, there is no right or wrong when it comes to celebrating a life lived.

Pittsburgh Cremation Service Example:

Jennifer had lost her mother to a long bout with cancer. She agonised over whether to opt for cremation or a traditional burial. After doing some research and consulting with her family, they decided on cremation owing to its flexibility.

She approached several cremation services in Pittsburgh, reviewed their credentials, evaluated their offerings, and contacted them to gauge their customer service. Subsequently, they chose a service that was professional, empathetic, and transparent about their pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing a body to its basic elements by exposing it to intense heat. The resulting fragments are then processed into finer particles, often referred to as ashes, which can be returned to the family or interred in a variety of ways.

How does Pittsburgh Cremation Service differ from traditional funeral services?

Pittsburgh Cremation Service focuses on providing cremation as the primary method of body disposition, as opposed to traditional burial. We offer a range of cremation-related services, including direct cremation, memorial services, and assistance with urn selection, as well as compassionate support throughout the process.

What is direct cremation?

Direct cremation is a straightforward process where the body is cremated shortly after death without embalming, viewing, or a memorial service beforehand. It’s an affordable and simple option that many families choose for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

Is a casket required for cremation?

No, a traditional casket is not required for cremation. Instead, a combustible, rigid container is used for the actual process. Families may choose to rent a casket for viewing purposes before the cremation takes place, if desired.

Can I still have a funeral service with cremation?

Absolutely. A funeral or memorial service can be held before or after the cremation. Many families opt for a memorial service with the urn present, while others may choose to have a traditional funeral service followed by cremation.

How are the remains returned to the family?

The cremated remains, often called ashes, are typically returned to the family in a temporary urn provided by Pittsburgh Cremation Service. Families can then transfer the ashes to a more personalized urn, scatter them, or inter them in a columbarium or burial plot.

Are there restrictions on where ashes can be scattered?

While scattering ashes is a personal choice, there are laws and regulations that govern the practice. It's important to seek permission if you're considering scattering on private property or in public areas, including national parks. Pittsburgh Cremation Service can provide guidance on these regulations.

How long does the cremation process take?

The actual cremation process typically takes a few hours. However, the entire process from the time of death until the ashes are returned can take several days, depending on documentation, permits, and whether a service is held beforehand.

Can family members witness the cremation?

Yes, some facilities, including Pittsburgh Cremation Service, offer the option for family members to be present during the cremation. This can be a part of the family’s closure process and can be arranged upon request.

Is embalming required for cremation?

Embalming is not typically required for cremation. However, if there is an extended period between death and the cremation, or if a public viewing is requested, embalming may be recommended or necessary.

Can multiple cremations be performed at once?

Pittsburgh Cremation Service adheres to strict ethical standards which state that cremations are performed individually to ensure the integrity and identity of the cremated remains.

What can be done with the ashes after cremation?

The ashes can be kept in an urn, scattered, buried, or incorporated into memorial objects like cremation jewelry or glass art. Some families also choose to place a portion of the ashes in a columbarium niche.

How do I make arrangements for cremation?

Arrangements can be made by contacting Pittsburgh Cremation Service directly. Our professional staff will guide you through the planning process, including deciding on the type of service, completing necessary paperwork, and addressing any special requests.

Is pre-planning cremation services available?

Yes, Pittsburgh Cremation Service offers pre-planning options to assist individuals and families in making arrangements in advance. This provides peace of mind and can alleviate the burden on loved ones at the time of passing.

What types of urns are available?

We offer a wide variety of urns to suit personal tastes and budgets. Options range from simple and practical containers to beautifully crafted artistic urns made from materials like wood, metal, stone, or biodegradable materials.

What paperwork is necessary for cremation?

The required documentation typically includes a death certificate, a cremation authorization form, and any additional permits that might be needed depending on local regulations. Our staff will help you complete and file the necessary documents.

How do I know the ashes I receive are those of my loved one?

Pittsburgh Cremation Service adheres to a rigorous identification and chain of custody protocol. This includes the use of unique identification tags and meticulous tracking at every stage of the process, ensuring that the ashes you receive are indeed those of your loved one.

Can I include personal items with my loved one during cremation?

Certain items, such as photographs or letters, may be allowed to accompany your loved one during cremation. However, it's essential to consult with our staff as some materials are not suitable for the cremation chamber and may need to be removed beforehand.

Are cremation services environmentally friendly?

Cremation is considered to have a lower environmental impact than traditional burial due to the absence of embalming chemicals and the reduced use of land. Additionally, Pittsburgh Cremation Service offers eco-friendly options, such as biodegradable urns, for those with environmental concerns.

What support services are available for those grieving?

We understand that losing a loved one is a challenging experience, which is why Pittsburgh Cremation Service provides grief support resources. From counseling referrals to online bereavement services, we aim to offer comfort and assistance during your time of need.

How do I choose between burial and cremation?

Choosing between burial and cremation is a personal decision that can be influenced by factors such as cultural, religious beliefs, personal preferences, environmental concerns, and financial considerations. Our staff can provide information and guidance to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your values and wishes.

Arranging the final journey of a loved one is never easy, but with correct guidance, the process can be managed smoothly. As you plan your loved one’s memorial, consider using Eulogy Assistant. It’s here to help you weave together the perfect words to honour their memory. Share this article with those who may be navigating this challenge, and explore more of our guides for additional support.