Cremation Society of Washington

What is Cremation, and Why is it Becoming the Preferred Choice?

Cremation is a dignified and environmentally friendly way to say goodbye to a loved one. It involves the use of high-temperature flames to reduce the body to its basic elements, leaving behind a small amount of ashes that can be kept in an urn, scattered, or buried. With cremation, you have the freedom to create a personalized farewell that reflects the personality, interests, and values of the deceased.

In recent years, cremation has become the preferred choice for many individuals and families. This shift is driven by several factors, including the rising cost of traditional burials, growing environmental concerns, and the desire for a more personalized and flexible farewell experience.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

The cremation process typically involves the following steps:

• Initial Preparation: The deceased is prepared for cremation, which may include washing, dressing, and casketing.
• Cremation: 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.
• Processing: The remains are processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains or ashes.
• Return of Ashes: The ashes are returned to the family in an urn, which can be kept, scattered, or buried.

At the Cremation Society of Washington, we're committed to providing a dignified and respectful cremation process that honors the memory of your loved one.

Cremation Options: Choosing the Right Farewell

We understand that every individual is unique, and that's why we offer a range of cremation options to suit different needs, preferences, and budgets.

Direct Cremation

A direct cremation is a simple and affordable option that involves cremating the body without a funeral service or viewing.

Cremation with a Memorial Service

This option allows you to hold a memorial service or celebration of life, either before or after the cremation process.

Cremation with a Funeral Service

This option combines a traditional funeral service with cremation, providing a more formal farewell experience.

Our experienced team will guide you through the options and help you create a personalized farewell that honors your loved one.

Cremation Urns and Memorialization Options

After the cremation process, you'll need to choose an urn to hold the ashes. We offer a wide range of urns, from traditional to modern designs, to suit different tastes and preferences.

In addition to urns, we also provide various memorialization options, including:

• Scattering Gardens: A serene and peaceful environment where you can scatter the ashes.
• Niche Columbaria: A above-ground structure that houses multiple urns.
• Burial Plots: A traditional burial option for the urn.
• Tree Planting: A unique way to memorialize your loved one by planting a tree in their honor.

Our team will help you explore the options and find the perfect way to memorialize your loved one.

The Benefits of Pre-Planning with the Cremation Society of Washington

Pre-planning your cremation is a thoughtful and responsible decision that can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

By pre-planning with us, you can:

• Lock in Today's Prices: Protect your family from rising costs and inflation.
• Ensure Your Wishes are Honored: Guarantee that your farewell is carried out according to your wishes.
• Reduce Emotional Burden: Spare your loved ones from making difficult decisions during a time of grief.
• Get Peace of Mind: Know that everything is taken care of, and you can focus on living life to the fullest.

Our pre-planning experts will guide you through the process and help you create a personalized plan that suits your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation:

1. Is cremation a new practice?

No, cremation has been around for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations.

2. Is cremation environmentally friendly?

Yes, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional burials, as it reduces the need for land, resources, and embalming chemicals.

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

Yes, you can still hold a funeral service or memorial service with cremation, either before or after the cremation process.

4. How do I know that the ashes are really those of my loved one?

We follow a strict identification process to ensure that the ashes are those of your loved one. We also provide a unique identification number on the urn and a certificate of cremation.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

At the Cremation Society of Washington, we're committed to providing you with the resources and support you need to navigate the cremation process.

Here are some additional resources to help you:

• Grief Support Groups: Join our online community or attend one of our in-person support groups to connect with others who have experienced a loss.
• Cremation Planning Guide: Download our comprehensive guide to cremation planning, which covers everything from the cremation process to memorialization options.
• Funeral Homes and Partners: We partner with local funeral homes and crematories to provide a seamless and dignified cremation experience.

Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our cremation services and how we can help you create a meaningful farewell.