Cremation Society of Milwaukee

What is Cremation, and Why is it Becoming So Popular?

Cremation is a process where the body is transformed into ashes through high-temperature burning. It's a centuries-old practice that's gaining popularity in modern times due to its eco-friendly, cost-effective, and flexible nature.

With traditional burials, we're facing a crisis of space and resources. Cemeteries are running out of land, and the environmental impact of embalming fluids, coffins, and grave maintenance is staggering. Cremation, on the other hand, uses significantly less land and resources, making it a more sustainable option.

But cremation is not just about the environment; it's also about personal preference. Many people choose cremation because it allows for more flexibility in memorialization, scattering of ashes, and celebration of life.

The Benefits of Cremation

• Environmental Benefits: Cremation uses significantly less land and resources compared to traditional burials.
• Cost-Effective: Cremation can be up to 50% cheaper than traditional burials.
• Flexibility: Cremation allows for more flexibility in memorialization, scattering of ashes, and celebration of life.
• Personalization: Cremation enables families to create unique and personalized memorial services that reflect their loved one's personality and spirit.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

The cremation process typically involves the following steps:

1. Initial Preparation: The body is prepared for cremation, which includes washing, dressing, and placing the body in a cremation container.
2. Cremation: The body is placed in a cremation chamber, where it's exposed to high temperatures, reducing the body to ashes.
3. Processing: The ashes are processed into a fine powder, which is then placed in an urn or container.
4. Return of Ashes: The ashes are returned to the family, who can then choose to bury, scatter, or keep them in a memorial urn.

Memorialization Options: Celebrating Life and Legacy

Memorialization is an essential part of the grieving process, and cremation offers a wide range of options to celebrate life and legacy.

• Scattering of Ashes: Ashes can be scattered in a special location, such as a park, ocean, or mountain.
• Burial of Ashes: Ashes can be buried in a cemetery or memorial garden.
• Urn Placement: Ashes can be placed in an urn and displayed in a home or memorial garden.
• Tree Planting: Ashes can be mixed with soil and used to plant a tree, creating a living memorial.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation:

1. Is cremation a popular choice?

Yes, cremation is becoming increasingly popular, with over 50% of Americans choosing cremation over traditional burials.

2. Is cremation a religious practice?

Cremation is not exclusive to any particular religion; it's a personal choice that can be accommodated by many faiths.

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

Yes, you can still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation. Many families choose to hold a service before or after the cremation process.

4. How do I know that the ashes are really my loved one's?

Crematories follow strict guidelines to ensure that the ashes are properly identified and returned to the family.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

If you're considering cremation or have already chosen this path, we're here to support you every step of the way.

• Cremation Society of Milwaukee: Our team is dedicated to providing you with the information and resources you need to make informed decisions about cremation.
• Online Resources: We've curated a list of online resources, including articles, videos, and blogs, to help you navigate the cremation process.
• Community Support: Join our community of individuals who have chosen cremation and connect with others who understand your journey.