Chippewa Valley Cremation Services

What is Cremation, Anyway?

Cremation is a process that reduces the body to its basic elements, leaving behind a residue of bone fragments and ash. It's a popular choice for many families, with over 50% of Americans opting for cremation over traditional burial. But what makes it so appealing?

For one, cremation is an environmentally friendly option. It reduces the amount of land needed for burial, and eliminates the need for embalming fluids and other chemicals. It's also a cost-effective choice, with prices significantly lower than traditional burial.

The Cremation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, what happens during the cremation process? Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:

• Preparation: The body is prepared for cremation, which may include washing, dressing, and cosmetizing the deceased.
• Identification: The body is identified and verified to ensure that the correct individual is being cremated.
• Cremation Chamber: The body is placed in a cremation chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures (typically between 1400°C to 1800°C) for a period of 1-2 hours.
• Cooling: After cremation, the remains are cooled and processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains or ashes.
• The cremated remains are returned to the family in an urn or container, which can be kept, buried, or scattered.

Types of Cremation: Which is Right for You?

There are several types of cremation to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Here are some of the most common:

Traditional Cremation

This is the most common type of cremation, where the body is cremated in a cremation chamber, and the remains are returned to the family.

Direct Cremation

This type of cremation skips the traditional funeral service and viewing, and goes straight to the cremation process.

Green Cremation

Also known as alkaline hydrolysis, this type of cremation uses a water-based solution to break down the body, rather than flame.

Resomation

Similar to green cremation, resomation uses a water-based solution to break down the body, but with a slightly different process.

Cremation vs. Burial: What's the Difference?

So, why choose cremation over traditional burial? Here are some key differences to consider:

• Cost: Cremation is generally less expensive than traditional burial, with prices starting at around $1,000 compared to $7,000-$10,000 for burial.
• Environmental Impact: Cremation reduces the amount of land needed for burial, and eliminates the need for embalming fluids and other chemicals.
• Flexibility: Cremation allows for more flexibility in terms of memorialization, with options for scattering, burial, or keeping the remains in an urn.

What to Do with Cremated Remains?

So, what do you do with the cremated remains once they're returned to you? Here are some popular options:

Urn Burial

Bury the urn in a cemetery or memorial garden, often with a marker or headstone.

Scattering

Scatter the remains in a special location, such as a favorite park, beach, or mountain.

Keeping the Urn

Keep the urn at home, in a memorial garden, or in a columbarium.

Dividing the Remains

Divide the remains among family members, or split them between multiple urns or containers.

Planning Ahead: The Benefits of Pre-Arrangement

Planning ahead for cremation can be a wise decision, both emotionally and financially. Here are some benefits of pre-arrangement:

• Emotional Relief: By planning ahead, you can spare your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during a difficult time.
• Financial Security: Pre-arrangement can help lock in prices and avoid future inflation.
• Personalization: You can customize your cremation plan to fit your unique needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation:

1. Is cremation a safe process?

Yes, cremation is a safe and regulated process, with strict guidelines in place to ensure the dignity and respect of the deceased.

2. Can I still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation?

Absolutely! You can still hold a funeral or memorial service, even with cremation.

3. How do I know I'm getting the right ashes back?

Crematories use a unique identification system to ensure that the correct ashes are returned to the family.

4. Can I scatter ashes in a national park?

Yes, but be sure to check with the park's regulations and obtain any necessary permits.

Your Path to Healing: Resources and Community Support

Losing a loved one is never easy, but with the right support, you can navigate the grieving process with more ease. Here are some resources and community support options to consider:

• Grief Counseling: One-on-one counseling or group therapy to help you process your emotions.
• Support Groups: Join a community of people who have experienced a similar loss, and find comfort in shared experiences.
• Online Resources: Websites, blogs, and forums dedicated to grief support and cremation education.

Remember, you're not alone in your journey. Reach out to us at Chippewa Valley Cremation Services, and let us guide you through the cremation process with compassion and care.